Depends on what the term “ambulance functions” means in CAR 206(1)(a)(vii).
Although the discussion is academic, because the new, simple, harmonised, outcomes-based classification of operations scheme will come into effect in 1998, it does raise the question as to how operations for the purposes of “ambulance functions” and “any other purpose that is substantially similar to” ambulance functions can be carried out without passengers. Operations for those purposes are aerial work: CAR 206(1)(a)(vii) and (ix).
If “ambulance functions” involve patients, and patients are, by definition, passengers, it follows that at least that kind of AWK can, from a regulatory perspective, be carried out with passengers.
Doesn’t mean it has to be done only under an AWK AOC, but I don’t see why it can’t be done under an AWK AOC.
Of course, it may be that the transport of patients in other than an emergency is not an operation for the purposes of “ambulance functions” or “any other purpose that is substantially similar to” ambulance functions.
But as I say, it’s all academic come 1998.