RMK...
Regarding the seating location comments above, I’ve never read any FAA or JAA docs which noted/commented where your ass touches the helicopter – just whether you are “in command” of the aircraft.
I believe the POH for the Bell 206L4 in the limitations section paragraph 1-5 states:
Minimum flight crew consists of one pilot who shall operate helicopter from right crew seat.
I believe the jetrangers have similar wording as does the Schweizer 300 series and R-22. Therefore, it is my understanding that the only way to log PIC from the "non-pilot" seat, is to hold a CFI license.
This issue came up at Helicopter Adventures a few years ago. The MTP were training foreign military personnel who would NEVER receive civilian licenses. Some of the instructors at the time did NOT hold civilian CFI ratings, the "students" did not hold "student pilot certificates". Therefore the instructor could not legally as as Pilot In Command and fly from the "instructor" seat. They were able to teach, because they were "not giving instruction for the purposes of the issuance of a certificate or rating". Therefore, in the eyes of the FAA, they were the PIC at all times and they had to "instruct" from the designated "pilot seat".
Don't you just love these "legal" issues.