😂😂 I feel your pain.
The simple answer is ‘Yes’.
We currently operate using the CAT FTL. We had no HEMS variation when the operation started up. We do now though but still use a CAT FTL, which is surprising.
You would think that having requested operational timings of 0700 - 0200 for a HEMS operation & granted this by the CAA, We would be required to work within these times & to a HEMS variation. This would only allow discretion to be used for 1 hour past 0200, 2 in emergency & that being notifiable. Using the CAT FTL though enables discretion to 3 hrs. So a 0500 finish. Most of us limit ourselves to the 1 hr past 0200 but there are still some that will offer the 3😳
HEMS operations are known to be unique especially at night & it’s often thought to be the ‘Ninja’ of civilian helicopter operations. Which is why the further restrictions.
I thought the HEMS variation was to be a harmonised scheme across EASA & CAA but it appears not. Unless it’s just that some operations don’t apply it.
I see some of your respondents think that FTL are designed to manage rosters, they're not, they’re to manage fatigue.