Originally Posted by
CGameProgrammerr
Airworthiness is not a big deal; you get a DAR to examine it and certify it, which he does by filling out a form online that also generates the special operating limitations. Of course unfamiliarity with this helicopter will make that take a bit longer. The special operating limitations define the center point of the 25-mile radius for phase 1 (radius varies but is usually 25 miles), and after 40 flight-hours you're automatically and implicitly transitioned into phase 2, with no additional paperwork or inspections needed typically. Flight over congested areas is allowed implicitly when phase 1 is complete, unless the DAR for some reason issues restrictive operating limitations.
Thanks for the clarification. I had not realized that these transitions were automatic and implicit. That seems to fly in the face of the regulations, but, hey, it's the FAA! Still, to be limited to 25 miles for 40 hours is going to sit poorly with the likely demographic, I think. It'll be interesting to see how this all develops. How many will be brought to the US, and how many will get caught outside their 25NM limit early.