Air Operator Certification Manual - Helicopters (2017)

CAP 3400

Air Operator

Certification Manual -

Chapter 0

Helicopters

Revision 1

June 2018

TABLE OF CONTENTS

FOREWORD

RECORD OF REVISIONS

viii

LIST OF EFFECTIVE PAGES

ABBREVIATIONS

CHAPTER 1 - INTRODUCTION

1. General

2. Applicable Rules and Requirements

3. Purpose of AOP/AOC

4. Air Operator’s Permit/ Certificate

5. Application for AOP/ AOC

6. Continued Compliance

7. Suspension/ Cancellation or Revocation of AOP/ AOC

CHAPTER 2 - BACKGROUND

1. Certification Process

2. Responsibility of the Applicant

3. Authorization for the issue of an Air Operator’s Permit/ Certificate

4. Schedule of Events

5. Statement of Compliance (Declaration of Conformance)

6. Operator’s Permit/ Certificate and Operations Specifications (Ops Spec)

CHAPTER 3 - INITIAL ISSUE OF AN AOP/ AOC

1. The Pre-Application phase

2. The Formal Application Phase

The Document Evaluation Phase

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3.1 General

3.2 Lease Agreements

3.3 Manuals

3.4 Operations Manual

3.5 Rotorcraft Flight Manual

3.6 Route Manual/ Navigation Information

3.7

Training Manuals, Training Programmes and Training Personnel

3.8 Dangerous Goods Manual

3.9 Maintenance Control Manual(CAME)

3.10 Security Manual

3.11 Safety and Emergency Procedures

3.12 Ground Handling Procedures

3.13 Flight Safety Manual

3.14 Safety Management Systems Programme

3.15 Flight Safety Documents System

3.16 Passenger Safety Briefing Card

3.17 Minimum Equipment List

3.18 Statistical Returns

4. Permission to import helicopter

5. The Demonstration and Inspection Phase

5.1. General

5.2 Proving/ Validation Flights

5.3 Evacuation and Ditching Demonstration

6. Certification Phase

6.1 Final version of the Operation Specifications

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6.2 Issue of an Air Operator Permit/ Air Operator Certificate

7. Renewal of Air Operator Permit/ Certificate

7.1 The Application for Renewal

7.2 Inspection for Renewal of AOP/ AOC

7.3 Lapsed AOP/ AOC

7.4 Amendment to AOP/ AOC/ Operations Specifications

CHAPTER 4 - CERTIFICATION PROCESS

1. Air Operator’s Certification Team

2. Pre-application Phase

3. Formal Application Phase

4. Document Evaluation Phase

5. Inspection and Demonstration Phase

6. Certification Phase

CHAPTER 5 - MANAGEMENT OF AIR OPERATOR PERMIT/ CERTFICATE

APPENDIX A - Application For Permission To Establish Air Transport Services In India 1

APPENDIX B - Schedule of Events

APPENDIX C - Statement of Compliance

APPENDIX D - Certification Check Lists

CHECKLIST 01 - Assessment of General Status

CHECKLIST 02 - Technical assessment for issue of Operations Specifications

CHECKLIST 03 - Assessment of Post Holders

CHECKLIST 04 - Assessment of Operations Manual

CHECKLIST 05 - Organizational Structure, Staffing and Administrative Facilities

CHECKLIST 06 - Assessment of Flight Manual and Cockpit Checklists

CHECKLIST 07 - Provision of Operational Information and Support to Crew

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CHECKLIST 08 - Arrangements for Maintenance of Documents/ Records

CHECKLIST 09 - Inspection of Loading and Load Control

CHECKLIST 10 - Inspection of Helicopter

CHECKLIST 11 - Inspection of Operational Bases and Passenger Handling

CHECKLIST - 11A - Inspection of Ground Handling Arrangements……………………26

CHECKLIST 12 - Inspection of Training Facilities

CHECKLIST 13 - Operational Control

CHECKLIST 14 - Flight Operations Inspectors Final Report

CHECKLIST 15 - Proving Flight

CHECKLIST - 20 - Maintenance Organizational Structure and Staffing

CHECKLIST - 21 - Maintenance Control Manual (CAME)

CHECKLIST - 22 - Technical Data

CHECKLIST - 23 - Fuelling of Helicopter

CHECKLIST - 24 - Maintenance Facilities

CHECKLIST - 25 - Weight & Balance Control

CHECKLIST - 26 - Helicopter Servicing, Spares Holding & Stores Control

CHECKLIST - 27 - Minimum Equipment List / Configuration Deviation List

CHECKLIST - 28 - Maintenance Release

CHECKLIST- 29 - Accomplishment, and Control of Mandatory Modifications/

Airworthiness Directives

CHECKLIST - 30 - Airworthiness Inspection of Helicopter

CHECKLIST - 31 - Inspection of Maintenance Systems

CHECKLIST - 32 - Time-In-Service and Maintenance Records

CHECKLIST - 33 - Contractual Arrangements

CHECKLIST - 34 - Assessment of Head of Maintenance

CHECKLIST - 35 - Inspection of Defect Reporting System

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CHECKLIST - 36 - Airworthiness Team Leader’s Final Report

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APPENDIX E - Format of Air Operator’s Permit and Operations Specifications

APPENDIX G - Introducing a type of helicopter that is not already in service in India -

Special additional requirements

APPENDIX H - Recommended Qualifications for Nominated Post Holders

APPENDIX I - Pre Certification Facility Inspections

APPENDIX J - Checklist for the Issuance of an AOP/ AOC

APPENDIX K - Suggested Timelines for Completion of Certification Process including

time lines for completion of major events for induction of helicopter

Appendix K-1 Time Line for Completion of Certification Process for Grant Of AOP/ AOC 1

Appendix K-2 - Time Line for Completion of Major Events for Induction of Helicopter

Appendix L - Renewal of an AOP/ AOC

Appendix M - Application for Amendments to the Operations Specifications

Appendix N - Requirements for International Operations

Appendix O - Proving Flight Readiness Check

Appendix P- Review Check List - Reporting of Deficiencies……………………………...…1

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FOREWORD

In accordance with the provisions of Rule 134 of the Aircraft Rules, 1937 no persons

shall operate any scheduled air transport service from, to, in, or across India except

with the permission of the Central Government. In order to promote/ enhance Regional

Connectivity, the concept of Scheduled Commuter Air Transport Services has been

introduced under the National Civil Aviation Policy - 2016. Further, Rule 134A of the

Aircraft Rules, stipulates that no air transport service, other than a scheduled air

transport service, shall be operated by an Indian air transport undertaking unless it

holds a Non-Scheduled Operator’s Permit granted by the Central Government. The

authority to grant the permission has been delegated by the Government to DGCA.

Accordingly, Air Operator Certificates/ Permits for operating the following types of air

transport services are presently issued by DGCA to applicants who meet the laid down

requirements for the specific type of air transport service:

1. Scheduled Air Transport Service (Passenger)

2. Scheduled Air Transport Service (Cargo)

3. Scheduled Commuter Services

4. Non- Scheduled Air Transport Service (Passenger)

5. Non- Scheduled Air Transport Service (Cargo)

Operators undertaking Scheduled Commuter Services would be issued a Scheduled

Air Operator Certificate (Scheduled Commuter) while non-scheduled operators would

be issued Non- Scheduled Air Operators Permit (Passenger) or Non- Scheduled Air

Operators Permit (Cargo) as applicable. Such certificates are required to be granted

by ICAO member States in accordance with the provisions of Annex 6 Part III.

Certificates/ Permits are granted subject to the applicant showing satisfactory

capability to undertake the type of operations to the regulator. Hence certification of

an air operator is a very vital role in the regulatory system. In order to assess the

competence of an Operator, the DGCA has to conduct an in-depth evaluation of the

proposed operation, which should at least cover organization, staffing, equipment &

facilities, proposed routes/ areas of operation, level and type of service and finances.

The issue of an Air Operator Permit would be dependent upon the applicant

demonstrating an adequate organization, method of control and supervision of flight

operations, training programmes as well as ground handling and maintenance

arrangements consistent with the nature and extent of the operation specified.

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The certification team of Inspectors of DGCA is responsible for conducting the required

evaluations to ensure the applicant’s capability of meeting the actual and potential

obligations in establishing and continuing to maintain safe operation of air services,

prior to issuance of the AOP/ AOC. Hence, all Inspectors involved in the certification

process of the issuance of an AOP/ AOC, shall be guided by the requirements

stipulated in this manual.

On compliance of the requirements by the applicant and after evaluation by DGCA,

the applicant would be issued a certificate/ permit, setting forth the operational

authorisation and limitations to carry out the specified commercial air transport

operations.

Subsequent to the issuance of an Air Operator Permit, DGCA would continue to

monitor the operations by a systematic procedure of surveillance and inspections.

CAP 3400 - Air Operator Certification Manual - Helicopters provides the guidance to

an applicant seeking such a Certificate for helicopter operations. The purpose of this

manual is to explain the administrative procedure involved, for the issue and renewal

of an Air Operator Permit and to indicate the requirements to be met by an applicant

for such a Permit. Every application is considered on its merits. Furthermore this

guidance is for DGCA Inspectors to certify operators for an issue of an AOP/ AOC. It

is expected that the applicant of an Air Operator Certificate/Permit will be benefited by

this manual as it explains the administrative procedures involved so that the process

would be independent and transparent. The list of guidance material issued by DGCA

as indicated in the manual needs to be referred to, in conjunction with this manual.

Prospective applicants may visit the DGCA official website at http://dgca.nic.in to

obtain further details.

(B. S. Bhullar)

Director General of Civil Aviation

(Approved vide F. No. AV. 22024/07/2017 dated 4^th June 2018)

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RECORD OF REVISIONS

Flight Standards Directorate, DGCA, India is responsible to ensure that this manual

is updated as required and to maintain the contents of the manual current at all times.

Amendments to this manual are promulgated by means of revisions issued

whenever necessary to cover corrections and to add or modify the contents.

Any Revisions to the manual shall be shown with a vertical bar on the right side

of the revised data. The page number and the revision number of the effected

page must be changed accordingly. The list of effective pages and history of

revisions page must be amended accordingly.

All revisions to this manual shall have the approval of the approving authority of

this manual prior to publishing of the revisions.

REVISION NUMBER

DATE ENTERED

ENTERED BY

1st Edition

16^thJanuary 2017

CFOI, DGCA

2^ndEdition

July 2017

CFOI, DGCA

Rev. 1

June 2018

CFOI, DGCA

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LIST OF EFFECTIVE PAGES

Reference

Page No(s).

Revision No.

Effective Date

Chapter 0

1-11

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Chapter 1

1-5

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Chapter 2

1-5

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Chapter 3

1-21

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Chapter 4

1-16

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Chapter 5

1-2

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Appendix A

1-14

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Appendix B

1-8

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Appendix C

1-4

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Appendix D

1-94

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Appendix E

1-5

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Appendix F

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Appendix G

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Appendix H

1-4

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Appendix I

1-20

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Appendix J

1-4

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Appendix K

1-4

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Appendix L

1-6

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Appendix M

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Appendix N

1-2

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Appendix O

Rev 0

July 2017

Appendix P

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ABBREVIATIONS

AIC

Aeronautical Information Circular

AIP

Aeronautical Information Publication

AIRAC

Aeronautical Information Regulation and Control

AMT

Aeromedical Transport

AOCMB

Air Operator Certificate Management Bureau

AOP/ AOC

Air Operator Permit/ Air Operator Certificate

APM

Airworthiness Procedures Manual

AWOP

All Weather Operations

CAME

Continuous Airworthiness Maintenance Exposition

CAR

Civil Aviation Requirements

CSI

Cabin Safety Inspector

C of A

Certificate of Airworthiness

C of R

Certificate of Registration

DGCA

Director General of Civil Aviation

DGR

Dangerous Goods Regulations

ELO

External Load Operations

FOI

Flight Operations Inspector

HEMS

Helicopter Emergency Medical Services

HHO

Helicopter Hoist Operations

ICAO

International Civil Aviation Organization

MEL

Minimum Equipment List

MMEL

Master Minimum Equipment List

NOTAM

Notice to Airmen

Operations Manual

Ops Spec

Operations Specifications

PBN

Performance Based Navigation

RFM

Rotorcraft Flight Manual

RNAV

Area Navigation

RNP

Required Navigational Performance

SARPs

Standards and Recommended Practices

SOPs

Standard Operating Procedures

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DEFINITIONS

“Noted”

This is a term to be used when completing the Declaration of

Conformance to indicate that the Operator has read and

understood the provisions made in the Regulations but it does

not require him to take any action to comply with the regulation.

“Noted &

This is a term to be used when completing the Declaration of

Complied”

Conformance to indicate that the Operator has read and

understood the provisions in the Regulations and action has

been taken to comply with it. When the operator states “Noted

and Complied” it is necessary to make necessary cross-

reference to the relevant documents of the operator which

describes action/step that he has taken for such conformance.

This may be done by quoting the applicable section and /or

paragraph numbers and the title of the Operator’s Manuals.

“Noted but

This is a term to be used when completing the Declaration of

Compliance

Conformance to indicate the Regulations which the operator

deferred”

has failed to comply with at the time of application.

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CHAPTER 1 - INTRODUCTION

1. General

1.1

In accordance with Rule 134 of the Aircraft Rules, 1937 no persons shall

operate an air transport service to, from and within India without permission of

the Central Government. The authority to grant the permission has been

delegated by the government to DGCA which is granted in the form of an Air

Operator Certificate (AOC). AOC specifies the nature and scope of operations

granted to an air operator together with the terms, conditions and limitations

applicable to such operations. An operator is required and expected to ensure

that all operations undertaken are well within the requirements specified in the

AOP/ AOC.

1.2

Accordingly, Air Operator’s Certificates/ Permits for operating the following

types of air transport services are presently issued by DGCA to applicants who

meet the laid down requirements for the specific type of air transport service:

● Scheduled Air Transport Service (Passenger)

● Scheduled Air Transport Service (Cargo)

● Scheduled Commuter Services

● Non- Scheduled Air Transport Service (Passenger)

● Non- Scheduled Air Transport Service (Cargo)

1.3

These AOCs/ AOPs are granted in compliance with the provisions of Annex 6

Part III.

2. Applicable Rules and Requirements

2.1

In discharge of its responsibilities for regulating air transportation and ensuring

safety of helicopter operations, DGCA has laid down detailed rules, regulations

and procedures under the provisions of Aircraft Act, 1934. The main

responsibility for the safe conduct of the operations and for compliance with

the laws, rules, regulations and directions issued from time to time is that of

the operator. These laws and regulations cannot in themselves provide the

operator with comprehensive and detailed instructions on which to base his

operations. The operator should, therefore, develop his own detailed operating

procedures necessary for safety, regularity and efficiency of operations within

the frame work of the laws, rules, regulations, and directions issued by DGCA

from time to time.

2.2

While requirements on various aspects relating to air transport services are laid

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down in the Aircraft Rules, 1937, Civil Aviation requirements and ICAO

Annexes, the following documents stipulate the specific requirements for grant

of permit to operate air transport services.

Schedule XI and Rule 134A of the Aircraft Rules, 1937 - Requirements

for Grant of Air Operator’s Certificate/ Permit for Scheduled/ Non-

Scheduled Operations.

II.

Civil Aviation Requirement, Section 3, Series 'C' Part Ill - Minimum

Requirements for Grant of Permission and to operate Non-Scheduled Air

Transport Services (Passenger).

III.

Civil Aviation Requirement, Section 3, Series 'C' Part IV - Minimum

Requirements for Grant of Permission and operation of Air Transport

Services (Cargo).

IV. Civil Aviation Requirement, Section 3, Series 'C' Part X - Minimum

requirements for undertaking aircraft operations with aircraft owned by

State Governments/ Public Sector Undertakings of Central/ State

Governments.

V. Civil Aviation Requirement, Section 3, Series 'C' Part XII - Minimum

requirements for Grant of Permission and to operate Scheduled

Commuter Air Transport Services.

3. Purpose of AOP/AOC

3.1

The purpose of an AOP/ AOC is to certify that specified commercial air transport

operations are authorized by DGCA and are to be conducted in compliance

with applicable regulations and rules.

3.2

The DGCA is empowered to issue the AOP/ AOC in two parts, the AOP/ AOC

itself and the associated operations specifications (Ops Spec) that specifies the

nature and scope of operations authorised together with relevant conditions and

limitations (eg. HEMS, PBN, RNP etc).

3.3

The DGCA is authorized to suspend or cancel an AOP/ AOC, if one or more of

the conditions stipulated therein is breached or not maintained to the same level

as demonstrated at the initial certification.

3.4

Prior to issuing an AOP/ AOC, the DGCA needs to be satisfied that the operator

conforms to all the requirements of relevant rules, requirements and associated

guidance published by the DGCA and in that:

(i)

the helicopter shall meet the appropriate standards of airworthiness and

operational requirements, and thereby be equipped with all mandatory items for

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communication, navigation, surveillance and safety and emergency equipment

in accordance with the applicable Civil Aviation Requirements published by the

DGCA, for safe, secure, efficient and regular operations of proposed services;

(ii)

the operator has provided for adequate servicing and maintenance of the

helicopter and established an effective system of maintenance control for this

purpose;

(iii)

the operator has provided for an effective means of operational control of the

helicopter that he intends to operate. This should include the policies and

procedures covering the type of operations, the pre-departure functions, the

dispatch functions, flight following, dual responsibility if any, continuation of

flight, termination or en-route diversion of flight;

(iv)

the organizational structure, staffing and administrative facilities in the areas

such as operations, maintenance and/or all other associated areas of the

operator is appropriate and the nominees for the Designated Post Holders have

adequate experience and required qualifications and are acceptable to and

approved by the DGCA as in Appendix H in this manual;

(v)

detailed procedures, techniques and guidance are included in Operator’s

Manuals giving specific instructions / information as to how the operator’s

personnel are required to carry out their duties and functions and such manuals

shall receive approval from the DGCA;

(vi)

flight & cabin crew and all other personnel required for operation of helicopter

(e.g. dispatchers or ground handling staff), who are qualified and trained as per

published requirements and are available in sufficient numbers to carry out

operations;

(vii)

the operator shall have a FDTL Scheme approved as per the limitations for

flight time, flight duty periods, duty periods and rest periods for fatigue

management of flight & cabin crewmembers as given in the relevant CARs;

(viii)

all required training and checking programmes, Examiners/ Instructors/ Check

pilot and training infrastructure including training/ checking facilities (local, in-

house outsource and abroad) simulators, and any other synthetic devices have

the approval of DGCA, where applicable;

(ix)

type(s) of helicopter are approved for the proposed operations and are suitable

for the proposed operations and they are available in sufficient numbers;

(x)

facilities and ancillary services required for the proposed operations have been

organized to ensure safe, secure, efficient and regular operation;

(xi)

potential and actual liabilities of the operator in respect of helicopter, crew,

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passengers, cargo and third party are covered with an insurance policy;

(Carriage by Air Act, 1972);

(xii)

an effective safety management system is in place;

(xiii) flight safety documents system is in place;

(xiv) flight data analysis programme & system of preservation of data, if applicable,

is in place;

(xv) air operator makes available to flight crew and operational personnel, adequate

navigation information contained in the AIP, AIRAC, AIC, pre-flight aeronautical

information etc, for the safety, regularity and efficiency of air navigation;

(xvi) an accident victim relief programme has been drawn up as per guidance of

ICAO CIR- 285/AN/166;

(xvii) operational requirements in relation to Ground handling, Passenger handling &

public safety, provision of operational information including dissemination of

weather data and NOTAMS to crew, arrangements of proposed fuel policy,

flight and cabin crew scheduling, operations support services, operational

loading and load control, take off & landing minima of the operator are in place;

(xviii) installations, equipment and staff facilities associated with main and operational

base stations is adequate for the proposed operation;

(xix) compliance with requirements related to transportation of Dangerous Goods by

air are adhered and documented;

(xx) maintenance requirements in relation to technical data, fuelling, maintenance

facilities, weight and balance, helicopter servicing, spares holding/ stores

control, MEL, CDL, maintenance release, accomplishment/ control of

airworthiness directives, maintenance systems, time-in-service/ maintenance

records, maintenance contractual agreements and Defects reporting system of

the operator are adhered and documented;

(xxi) any other element identified as a requirement during the certification process is

in place and is sufficient to ensure the conduct of operation with the type(s) of

helicopter to be operated.

4. Air Operator’s Permit/ Certificate

4.1

The AOP/ AOC and the associated Operations Specifications specify the nature

and scope of the authorizations in relation to the technical competency of the

operator for safe, secure, efficient and regular operation of air services.

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5. Application for AOP/ AOC

The application for the issue of an AOP/ AOC must be prepared in accordance with the

requirements prescribed in Appendix A of this manual.

6. Continued Compliance

6.1

Once certified, the operator is responsible for the continued compliance with

the initial conditions of certification and applicable legislative requirements and

DGCA’s requirements promulgated from time to time. The DGCA will maintain

regular surveillance on the operator’s activities to ensure continued compliance,

in addition to conducting formal and detailed audits where the operator’s actual

operations are checked against approved procedures in the operator’s

documents.

7. Suspension/ Cancellation or Revocation of AOP/ AOC

7.1

Failure on the part of the operator to comply with the applicable requirements

may result in either the imposing of administrative penalties or suspension/

cancellation or revocation of the AOP/ AOC.

7.2

An operator should note that in the event of a suspension/ cancellation or

revocation of an AOP/ AOC, the operator needs to be recertified, with a process

as determined by the DGCA, based on the reason for the suspension/

cancellation.

7.3

An operator should note that even if an enforcement action was not taken by

the DGCA, and operations are conducted in breach of a condition or conditions

of the AOP/ AOC, such operations are construed to be unauthorised and the

operator is liable for enforcement action by the DGCA, on detection of such

occurrences even belatedly.

7.4

The guidance for enforcement is given in detail in the Enforcement Policy &

Procedures Manual.

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CHAPTER 2 - BACKGROUND

Certification Process

1.1

The certification process requires the DGCA to ascertain through a systematic

process whether or not a prospective applicant has both the required ability and

resources to comply with the applicable legislative requirements and to fulfill

the applicant’s actual and potential obligations for operation of safe, secure,

efficient and regular air transport services as proposed. This process involves

five distinct phases as stated below:

Pre-application. During this phase, the applicant conducts initial studies,

prepares plans, makes inquiries from the DGCA in regard to the

opportunities available under the existing air services agreements and

seeks advice as to the validity of different proposals. The prospective

applicant at this stage is required to submit a statement of intent to the

DGCA outlining the proposal and apply to the Ministry of Civil Aviation for

issuance of NOC (assessment concerning the financial, economic and legal

aspects). On the issuance of an NOC and the request of the proposed

operator thereafter, the DGCA arranges for a pre-application meeting.

However, a pre-application meeting can also be conducted for an applicant

who does not have an NOC and needs to be guided on the process. In such

cases the NOC will have to be submitted by the applicant prior to initiating

the formal application stage. Receipt of NOC in such cases will constitute

the completion of the pre-application stage.

Formal application. On completion of pre-application phase, if the

applicant desires to proceed further, then the applicant is required to submit

the complete application (Appendix A) to the DGCA together with the fees

and relevant documents to support the intended operation and this will

constitute initiation of the formal application phase. In case no FOI / AWI

is trained on type, for effective supervision the operator will proposed

training of Inspector on type in such a manner so that the certification

process can be supervised. The DGCA will then make a formal

assessment of the completeness of the applicant’s proposal and invite the

applicant for a Formal Application meeting where the details relating to the

certification process would be formally discussed.

Document evaluation. During this phase, the DGCA will undertake a

detailed scrutiny of the applicant’s manuals and other documents, which

accompanied the formal application. The documentation must be complete,

accurate and current to satisfy the DGCA’s requirements. Qualifications and

experience of the nominees for designated post holders will be evaluated

and the designated post holders will be interviewed. Approval/ Acceptance

for the same will be granted. There will be series of discussions between

the DGCA and the approved/ accepted post holders of the applicant at this

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stage in regard to establishing the validity/ acceptability of the applicant’s

proposals. It should be noted that the documents shall reflect precisely the

mode and manner in which the applicant intends conducting the proposed

operations and once approved, they shall form a part of the understanding

between the DGCA and the operator in regard to future functioning of the

operator.

Demonstration and Inspection prior to certification. During this phase,

the applicant needs to demonstrate to the DGCA that the applicant is in a

position to conduct the proposed operations in accordance with the

procedures detailed in the documents/ manuals reviewed during the

previous phase utilizing the personnel/ facilities/ equipment identified in the

formal application. Helicopter, maintenance facilities and arrangements will

be inspected. Training facilities, programmes and training personnel will be

evaluated. Company’s organizational structure, channels of communication,

delegation of powers, financial strength and sources of funding will be

subjected to detailed scrutiny to ensure that the company has sufficient

resources, effective arrangement and control to satisfy its obligations.

Facilities for flight operations, ground handling, facilities and services for

passenger, baggage and cargo handling including dangerous goods and

security arrangements would be evaluated. Flight, cabin and technical crew,

operations and maintenance staff, flight operations officers, examiners/

flight engineers and load/ trim personnel, as applicable, will also be

assessed. If the DGCA is satisfied with the above arrangements, proving

flight(s) will be conducted to one or more destinations of intended

operations, as determined by the DGCA. This phase may reveal the need

for some operational changes, which in turn may require the applicant to

make amendments to the documents originally submitted. All elements must

be satisfactorily completed before proceeding to the certification phase.

During this phase, administrative action to formally approve the helicopters,

facilities and procedures specified in the OM, CAME, Training & Checking

organization will also be undertaken.

Certification. When all the previous phases have been satisfactorily

completed, the DGCA will issue the Air Operator’s Certificate/ Permit and

the associated Operations Specifications.

Responsibility of the Applicant

2.1

A major objective of the air operator certification is to ensure that an applicant

for an AOP/ AOC is fully aware and has clearly understood at the very outset

about the actual & potential obligations arising out of the proposed operations

(especially the legal & social responsibilities) and the financial commitments

required to sustain the proposed operations in conformity with the published

civil aviation requirements relating to safety, efficiency and regularity of air

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transportation.

2.2

Accordingly, an Air Operator Permit/ Certificate will not be issued until the

DGCA is fully convinced and satisfied beyond any doubt that all requirements

for issue of an Air Operator’s Permit/ Certificate have been complied with, prior

to commencement of the proposed operations and that the operator has both

the required aptitude and resources to maintain proposed services without

compromising any of the initial conditions of certification.

2.3

The type of aircraft proposed may require the applicant to provide the DGCA

staff with type specific training if the DGCA does not have type qualified

inspectors on its strength. The applicant will be responsible for the cost of

training of a maximum of two Flight Operations Inspectors and two

Airworthiness Inspectors as also any other officer(s) of the Certification Team

as specified during the certification process. It should be noted that type

endorsement training for the FOIs would involve ground and flight/ simulator

time. The inspectors(s) must have completed their training either before any

member of the operator commences their training or at the same time that the

first crew members of the prospective operator receives their training.

2.4

In the event, the holder of an AOP/ AOC inducts or replaces any of their aircraft

with a new type of aircraft or an aircraft for which type qualified inspectors are

not available with DGCA at the time in service, the AOP/ AOC holder shall incur

the same responsibilities and expenses as outlined in paragraph 2.3 above.

Authorization for the issue of an Air Operator’s Permit/ Certificate

3.1

Initial issue of an AOP/ AOC together with the Operations Specification, which

is required for the intended operations, will be issued once the certification team

makes the required recommendations and the Project Manager submits the

completed and signed checklists to the Project Coordinator in the Air Transport

Directorate.

Schedule of Events

4.1

This is a written statement to be provided by the applicant in a form as specified

in Appendix B, containing a list of items, documents, manuals, activities,

helicopter, and/or facility acquisition or procurements which the applicant must

accomplish or make ready, including the dates on which they will be submitted

to the DGCA for approval or will be ready for the DGCA inspection. The

Schedule of Events shall be pre-coordinated with the Project Manager in charge

of the certification process. Revision to timelines is mandatory in the event the

Project Manager forsees the inability of the applicant or certification team to

perform given task as per original schedule.

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Statement of Compliance (Declaration of Conformance)

5.1

Statement of compliance is a declaration by an applicant that the applicant is

aware of and has a plan that is approved by DGCA to satisfy all pertinent

regulations and applicable safety standards promulgated by the DGCA. The

statement is in the form of a detailed list of CARs and Advisory Circulars that

will be applicable to the proposed operations. The applicant is required to

provide a brief narrative, describing the intended method of compliance, which

shall be achieved against each item of the regulatory requirements. The format

of the compliance statement to be completed by an applicant is found in

Appendix C.

5.2

Where the operator does not or cannot comply with the normal requirements

and seeks a concession in lieu, the Compliance Statement should reflect that a

particular concession has been sought. Under these conditions, approval of the

Compliance Statement is contingent on approval of each requested

concession.

5.3

Operators, after receiving the formal authorization for flight operations through

an AOP/ AOC and associated Operations Specification, shall ensure

compliance with all changes to DGCA regulations as issued from time to time

and provide an update to the respective inspector.

Operator’s Permit/ Certificate and Operations Specifications (Ops Spec)

6.1

The format of Air Operator’s Permit/ Certificate and Operations Specifications

is placed at Appendix E.

Certification Team

7.1

The DGCA will appoint a team for the certification process. A certification team

is a group of DGCA Inspectors appointed to carry out the document reviews,

inspections and assessments required prior to certifying an applicant as

suitable to hold an AOP/AOC. The size of the team will vary according to the

size and complexity of the task(s) involved. The team will be headed by a

Project Manager who shall be responsible for managing the overall certification

process and in particular, the coordination of the activities of operations and

airworthiness teams.

7.2

The certification team may comprise of the following directorates/ divisions of

the DGCA:

a. Air Transport

b. Flight Standards

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c. Airworthiness

d. Cabin Safety

e. Dangerous Goods

f. Air Safety and any other department member as deemed appropriate for

the type of operations.

NOTE: The DGCA Inspectors will be using the relevant checklists to evaluate the

applicant’s arrangements for the proposed operations during the Documentation

Evaluation Phase and Demonstration and Inspection phase prior to Certification

Phase. These checklists are in Appendix D.

7.3

Inspectors of each discipline are further guided by the requirements published

in their respective Inspector Manual for the issuance of an AOP/ AOC, and will

use the relevant checklists in the Manual for any additional requirement, when

conducting Inspections for the above purpose.

7.4

Checklist for the issuance of an AOP/ AOC is in Appendix J.

7.5

The applicant is expected to meet the inspectors of the DGCA with prior

appointment to discuss the process involved with each discipline of the

Certification. A “Work Sheet” (Appendix F) will be filled by the applicant and

the inspector pertaining to each meeting to record the progress made in the

process.

7.6

The DGCA, if satisfied beyond any doubt that the applicant is capable of

meeting the requirements of the Aircraft Act and rules made there under, for

operations of air services as proposed, an AOP/ AOC and Operations

Specifications will be issued.

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CHAPTER 3 - INITIAL ISSUE OF AN AOP/ AOC

Detailed process followed by DGCA is given in Chapter 4 of this manual. An applicant

is free to make contact with the DGCA without making a commitment to determine the

feasibility of a proposal. An applicant will formally notify the DGCA in the form of a

Statement of intent once decided to proceed with obtaining an AOP/ AOC.

1. The Pre-Application phase

There are three distinct activities, which are conducted during this phase.

1.1

Pre- Application - Statement of Intent

1.1.1 The applicant is required to provide a Statement of Intent, which should contain

the following:

a. The type of operation;

b. The type(s) of helicopter;

c. Helicopter owned or leased;

Note: details relating to leased helicopter operations is found in the CAP 3200:

Aircraft Leasing Manual

d. Type and duration of the lease agreement;

e. The helicopter registration;

f. The areas(s) of operation and route(s) proposed;

g. Operational control mechanism planned;

h. The nature of helicopter and/ or simulator training and operational facilities;

Location of administrative, maintenance and operational facilities;

The qualifications of Nominated Post Holders

k. The planned company trading name; and

The approximate date of commencement.

Note : The statement of Intent may not have all or some portion of the above

information. Individual or an operation may seek a pre-application meeting for

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guidance on the certification process.

1.1.2

The applicant is also required to apply to the Ministry of Civil Aviation for

issuance of NOC (assessment concerning the financial, economic and legal

aspects). On the issuance of an NOC and the request of the proposed operator

thereafter, the DGCA will peruse the details provided by the applicant and

arrange for a pre-application meeting.

1.2

Pre-Application Meeting

1.2.1

The purpose of this meeting is to ensure that the applicant has a clear

understanding of the certification process and to provide a firm basis on which

the DGCA can start planning allocation of resources for the issue of an AOP/

AOC.

1.2.2

As a minimum, the following points will be discussed during this meeting:

The specific requirements particular to the proposed operation, and

relevant regulatory requirements (CARs, circulars, etc)

The qualifications and experience required for the nominated post

holders.

The certification process - The applicant must closely liaise with the

DGCA certification team.

The required form and content of the Formal Application and its

attachment - The formal application and its attachments must be

submitted at least 90 working days before the date of intended revenue

operation. Ninety (90) working days will only provide adequate time to

handle the application if all aspects are correct and complete at the time

of submission. This does not mean that the DGCA will be able to

complete the certification process within this time span. The completion

of the certification process would not only depend on the completeness

of the application, and the willingness of the applicant to satisfy the

DGCA requirements but also the workload already undertaken by the

DGCA inspectors under its annual work programme.

It is imperative that the applicant understands that no revenue operations

shall be permitted until the AOP/ AOC and Operations Specifications are

issued.

The fee which shall accompany the formal application will not be

refunded. If certification has not been completed within the validity of

the initial NOC due to either a lapse or a delay on the part of the

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applicant, the application may be deemed to have expired. The following

are examples of situations that can result in delays of certification;

i) Not meeting the schedule of events;

ii) Not providing lease agreements or other documentation as required

by DGCA;

iii) Unreasonable timing in the schedule of events or failing to provide

adequate buffers to cover possible delays;

iv) Submission of incomplete or unacceptable material or other required

documents that must be returned for correction;

v) Nomination of unacceptable personnel as Nominated Post Holders,

lack/ inadequacy of proficiency of crewmembers or maintenance

personnel;

vi) Unsatisfactory standards as revealed by inspections and/ or

demonstrations, e.g. proving flights, conformity checks, etc;

vii) Untimely or unsatisfactory development of the maintenance

programs and/ or delays in obtaining a conformity inspection for the

helicopter;

viii) Non availability of applicable manuals, records and other documents

which are required to be completed / approved or accepted prior to

certification. These should be drafted and completed prior to the

submission of the formal application;

x) Special additional requirements, where an applicant is introducing a

type of helicopter not already in service in India (See Appendix G).

1.3

Post Pre-Application Meeting

1.3.1

Following the pre-application meeting, and if the applicant decides to proceed

the applicant will inform the DGCA of the same and also submit a copy of the

NOC as obtained from MoCA(if not submitted earlier). The DGCA will advise

the operator (in writing) to prepare and submit the formal application along with

requisite fees associated with the certification process.

2. The Formal Application Phase

2.1

General

2.1.1 The formal application phase commences when the applicant forwards the

formal application as per Appendix A with its accompanying documentation,

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together with the fees. The application should be signed by either the owner

(when applying as an individual) or all members of the Board of Directors when

applying as a company.

2.1.2

When the formal application is received, the DGCA will arrange a formal

application meeting, subject to DGCA certification team confirming the

documents submitted are in order.

2.1.3

The formal application must be submitted at least ninety (90) working days

before date of intended revenue operations. A brief description, applicable

attachments and a detailed check-list of items to be covered in the formal

application are placed at Appendix A.

2.2

The Schedule of Events

2.2.1

This is a list of items, activities, helicopter, and/ or facility acquisitions which

must be accomplished or made ready, including the dates on which they will be

ready for the DGCA to inspect. It is important that the schedule be realistic and

contains sufficient flexibility to allow for unforeseen contingencies. A factor

which must be considered when the schedule of events is forwarded is whether

the DGCA has operations and airworthiness inspectors already trained on the

proposed helicopter type and if not, how long will it take to train them. If the

DGCA does not have sufficient number of already trained and qualified

inspectors on the type of helicopter to be operated, the applicant will be required

to absorb the cost of type specific training for at least two operations inspectors

and two airworthiness inspectors and any other officer of DGCA as specified,

as outlined in the previous chapter.

2.3

Manuals/ Information to be produced with the formal application

2.3.1

The manuals as given in Item 9 of Appendix A (2 copies each) must accompany

the application,

2.3.2

Detail on the contents of the various manuals is provided in the section related

to the document evaluation phase. In addition the applicant is required to

provide details of the planned organization, general policies, duties and

responsibilities of personnel, channels of communication (hierarchy),

airworthiness control policy, operational control policy and procedures. Such

matters are usually provided in Operations Manual and in Maintenance Control

Manual/ CAME.

2.4

Statement of Compliance

2.4.1. The compliance statement (Appendix C) should be in the form of a detailed

listing of CARs and Circulars that will be applicable to the proposed operation

with a brief narrative description of compliance.

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2.4.2. If the method of compliance has not been fully developed, a statement of intent

should be provided indicating the intent to comply. At this stage of the

certification process, the applicant is expected to have considered the proposal

in details and there should be a few areas, if any, in which precise compliance

information is not available. Documents that may be referred to in the

compliance statement includes the manuals indicated in para 2.3.1.

2.5

Nominated Post Holders

2.5.1

The duties and responsibilities and authorities shall be clearly defined and clear

delineation of functional tasks and lines of reporting shall be established and

documented and in this regard the operator shall have following persons

responsible for the following posts that should be approved by DGCA:

a) Accountable Manager

b) Director Flight Operations

c) Director Engineering & Maintenance

d) Director Quality Assurance

e) Director Safety Management System

f) Director Flight Safety

g) Director Training

h) Director Security

i) Director Cabin Safety - if applicable

j) Director of Ground Operations

k) Chief Pilots of each fleet

NOTE: Some of the above positions may be combined depending on the size and

complexity of the operation, if the management structure is acceptable

to DGCA. However, the Director Flight Safety shall be an independent

functionary reporting directly to the Accountable Manager only.

2.5.2 The guide to the qualifications expected of the nominated post holders is given

in Appendix H. Resumes should be provided containing information on the

qualifications and expertise, including licenses and ratings of personnel

selected, for the above or equivalent positions.

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2.6

Helicopter Facilities and Services

2.6.1

The type of helicopter intended to be used for the operation shall receive prior

approval from DGCA. Evidence should be provided that the helicopter, facilities

and services will be available to conduct the proposed operations. Evidence

should be in the form of proof of purchase, formal contracts or financial lease

agreements.

2.6.2

The Operator should have at least one helicopter, which will be used for

intended operations, to be certified as an Operator. It shall be noted that the

validity of the AOP/AOC becomes null and void automatically in the event that

the operator does not have at least one helicopter in its fleet.

2.6.3

If the formal contracts/ financial lease agreements are not available at this

stage, letters showing the agreements will be satisfactory until the formal

documents are available. It will also be necessary to provide documents

showing details of the insurance for the helicopter, its occupants and third

parties. The insurance scheme should be in compliance with the applicable

convention(s) and / or local legislation.

The Document Evaluation Phase

3.1

General

3.1.1

During this phase, the DGCA inspectors will inspect the documents provided in

support of the formal application. The documents must specifically relate to the

proposed operations.

3.2

Lease Agreements

3.2.1. Helicopter Leasing has been dealt in CAP 3200: Aircraft Leasing Manual.

3.3

Manuals

3.3.1 Manual Standards

Any Manual /Document prepared by an applicant for the approval of the DGCA

or to satisfy its regulatory requirements shall contain the following, in order to

ensure effective production, amendment, distribution and/or uniform use of, or

compliance with information relating to the company requirements.

(a) Reference Number used to identify the Document

This number shall be printed on top of the right hand corner of the front / cover

page and on each page of the Manual/Document.

(b)

Trade Mark / logo of the applicant

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This shall be printed on front / cover page and top of the left-hand corner on

each page of the Manual/Document.

(c)

Title of the Manual / Document

This shall be printed on front / cover page and immediate inner page after the

cover page.

(d)

Edition Number and Year of edition

This shall be printed on front / cover page.

(e)

Title of the person under whose authority the document is printed.

The title of the person who authorized the production of the Manual /

document should be written at the bottom of the cover / front page;

(f)

Control Number

In addition to whatever information the applicant may wish to print on the inner

page immediately after the cover page, it shall contain the control number

(which indicates the serial number) of the document;

(g)

Record of Revision

This shall contain three running columns to indicate the Revision Number, date

entered and name of the person making the revision;

(h)

List of effective pages

This shall contain three running columns to indicate the Page Number, last date

of revision and effective date;

(i)

History of Revision

A brief description in regard to each amendment introduced subsequent to the

initial issue.

(j)

Table of Contents

The table of contents shall be expanded to cover at least two sublevels with

page numbers.

(k)

Preamble/ Forward

This shall at least contain information relating to the purpose of the Manual in

brief, the level of compliance expected from the user. The preamble of all

Manuals/ documents shall be signed by the Accountable Manager;

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(l)

Abbreviations

All abbreviations and acronyms used in the Manual or documents should be

clearly explained in full;

(m) Definitions

All words, which has or requires a specific meaning in relation to the

matter being explained, shall be defined clearly in order to avoid

ambiguities. In the absence of a definition for a word or phrase, DGCA, India

will have the right to interpret such word or phrase with due regard to its

obligations for safety and security;

(n)

Separation of sections/ chapters

Manuals should be divided into chapters or sections based on topics

being dealt with. In view of the necessity of future updating requirements,

each new chapter or section shall start with a new page and such

sections/ chapters shall be identified with distinctive separators;

(o)

Header

There shall be a header for each page of a Manual or document and it shall

contain at least the applicant’s logo/ trade mark, name of the organization,

document name, document identification number (if any), volume number (if

any), revision number, chapter/ section number, subject of the chapter and

any other information the applicant may wish to display ;

(p)

Footer

There may be a footer for each page which should contain the page

number and any other information (than the header) which the applicant may

wish to display;

(q)

Index

There shall be an index to a Manual / document for ease of reference.

NOTE:

This Manual itself may be used as guidance for the development of

applicant’s Manual(s) in keeping with the aforesaid requirements.

The applicant shall also maintain a Master Distribution Record in relation to the

production and distribution of the Manual/ document and its subsequent

amendments.

All Manuals/ documents submitted by the applicant to the DGCA shall be in

duplicate so that one copy will be returned with the appropriate attestation, on

approval.

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The relevant page or pages of the original document which carries the DGCA

attestation shall be submitted, whenever an amendment is forwarded to the

DGCA for approval.

All Manuals / documents which contain information/ instructions which are

subject to change shall be compiled in a loose binder (ring binders) and any

manual/ document to be used in the flight deck shall be printed on papers of A5

size.

It is the responsibility of the Operator to update the Manuals submitted to the

DGCA from time to time to ensure the information contained therein is

complete, accurate, and up to date.

3.3.2 Use of language in Manuals / Documents

The applicant shall ensure that all Manuals/ Documents are written in the

English language and the following words are used to give the meaning as

indicated against such words.

“shall” or “must”

- compliance is mandatory.

“will” - the action referred to will not take place at the present moment but there

is a commitment to comply with the requirement.

“should” - compliance is recommended but not compulsory.

“may” - there is discretion for the applicant/ operator to apply alternate means

of compliance or to ignore the requirement.

Any specific instruction issued by the applicant to the operational staff shall be

given using the words “shall” or “must”.

3.4

Operations Manual

The Operations Manual is the means by which the applicant intends to control

all aspects of the intended operation. Through the Operations Manual the

operator shall ensure that all operations personnel are properly instructed in

their particular duties & responsibilities and the relationship of such duties to

the operation as a whole, especially all aspects of operational control including

the pre-departure functions, the dispatch functions, flight following, dual

responsibility if any, continuation of flight, termination or en-route diversion of

flight. The Operations Manuals shall contain information/ instructions relating to

the topics listed in the CAR Section 8 Series O Part VII as amended from time

to time. The Manual shall be compiled as per guidance in CAP 8100.

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3.5

Rotorcraft Flight Manual

3.5.1

The Rotorcraft Flight Manual is a document that is approved by the respective

civil aviation authority of the State of manufacturer. There is usually no

requirement for this manual to be approved by the DGCA unless there have

been substantial modifications to the helicopter by other than a means

approved by the State of manufacturer. The operator shall ensure that the flight

manual is updated by implementing changes made mandatory or approved by

the State of Manufacturer as per guidance given in applicable CAR. The manual

shall be in English or if it’s a translation it shall be signed by the State of the

manufacturer as a true translation. The RFM should contain information and

instructions relating to the following.

a) The identification of the helicopter;

b) The operating procedures and limitations of the helicopter;

c) The performances and loading of the helicopter; and

d) Special/ Optional equipment, if any.

3.6

Route Manual/ Navigation Information

3.6.1

An operator may have a route manual to ensure that it contains information

relating to communication facilities, navigation aids, heliports, instrument

approaches, instrument arrivals and instrument departures, as applicable, for

the operation, and such other information as the air operator may deem

necessary for the proper conduct of flight operations. Alternately the operator

shall demonstrate availability of adequate maps and charts or alternate means

(e.g. approved GPS) to enable safe and efficient air navigation for the entire

intended area of operations.

3.7

Training Manuals, Training Programmes and Training Personnel

3.7.1

The training information and arrangements shall be included in the operator’s

Operations Manual Part D. The training arrangements are subjected to DGCA

approval and must address all aspects of training pertaining to flight and cabin

crew, operational personnel and any other personnel involved in helicopter

operations. The applicants are advised to liaise with the Flight Standards

Directorate of DGCA in developing the required training programme for flight

crew and flight operations officer/ dispatchers. All training programmes for

personnel who are involved with flight operations and dispatching of company

helicopter must be approved by DGCA. The company may include additional

materials for guidance and information for company personnel over and above

the information required by the DGCA.

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3.7.2

The training manuals must cover syllabus, equipment and facilities intended to

be used, including the place where the training is to be conducted. In case the

operator intends to undertake training in-house, the qualification of instructors,

evaluation method, record keeping etc shall also be covered. All training that is

required must be included in the operations manual and shall have the

appropriate training programme. If any portion of the training programme is to

be conducted by any other entity external to the operator, relevant information

concerning this shall be included. An operator may use a training programme

that has already received approval for the use of another operator with the prior

approval of the DGCA.

3.7.3

All training organisations that are intended to conduct training for operations

personnel shall have the approval of DGCA/ ICAO Contracting State and such

organisations shall conduct training as per the approved training programmes.

3.7.4

Safety and Emergency Procedures training programmes/ information for

persons other than the flight crew (e.g. Cabin Crew) shall be compiled as per

the DGCA laid down requirements in the form of a Manual.

3.7.5

All instructors and simulator facilities pertaining to helicopter flight operations

shall have prior approval of the DGCA.

3.7.6

Operator’s arrangements for checking of the competence of the flight crew shall

be in conformity with the procedures specified in the relevant CAR issued by

the DGCA.

3.7.7

It is essential that the operator shall organize not only initial training for its

operational staff but also recurrent training programmes at regular intervals,

transition (conversion), requalification, upgrade, recent experience,

familiarisation, differences, safety management and other specialised training

as applicable & as required by the DGCA(refer relevant CARs). Details of all

such training programmes and facilities shall be included in the Operations

Manual and shall have prior approval of the DGCA.

3.8

Dangerous Goods Manual

3.8.1

The operator shall be guided by the requirements stipulated in IATA guidelines

when intending to carry dangerous goods. Following are the requirements that

the operator needs to fulfill prior to issuance of an AOP/AOC.

Commercial operators are required to provide a dangerous goods

manual/ requisite information in the Ops Manual for the use of

information and guidance of company operational personnel. Such

Manual shall form a part of the operations manual even if it is issued as

a separate volume. When the manual has been approved, it should be

distributed to relevant persons associated with the operations and

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DGCA. Suitable amendment and distribution procedures must also be in

place.

Operators are required to provide training programmes for all personnel

involved with handling or transport of dangerous goods by air.

Arrangements for training must be produced to cover this requirement

and required information shall form part of the operations manual.

The operator shall have procedures for reporting of occurrences

involving carriage of dangerous goods and to handle any emergency

arising out of dangerous goods. All operational staff should be educated

of these procedures and it shall be the duty of the operator to notify

forthwith the relevant State agency which is in charge of investigation if

any of helicopter carrying dangerous goods, meets with an accident.

3.8.2

Where an operator does not intend to carry dangerous goods, the following

requirements shall apply:

the operator shall provide information in his operations manual about this

policy of the operator. The operator shall also give specific written

instructions/ guidance to its technical and operational staff in this regard.

Operators are required to provide applicable dangerous goods training

to allow the identification of dangerous goods for personnel involved in

the handling of passengers and cargo, crew members and security staff

in order to prevent the inadvertent carriage of such goods either in the

cabin or cargo hold of helicopter operated by the operator. Accordingly,

a suitable section of the Operations Manual must be devoted to this

subject. The training arrangements for these personnel must be included

in the Operations Manual, and must be approved by the DGCA.

3.9

Maintenance Control Manual(CAME)

3.9.1

The maintenance control manual shall describe the operator’s procedures

necessary to ensure the continuing airworthiness of the operator’s helicopter.

A maintenance control manual must be submitted for approval by the DGCA.

3.9.2

This document shall be titled as Continuous Airworthiness Management

Exposition (CAME). The manual should be arranged into general information

and specific helicopter maintenance systems. Separate volumes may be

utilized for the purpose of separation of topics. Copies of the CAME must be

provided for the following-

All locations where maintenance is performed; and

Maintenance and inspection personnel who need the manual in the

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execution of their duties.

3.10 Security Manual

3.10.1 security manual is developed and approved by BCAS.

3.11 Safety and Emergency Procedures

3.11.1 The operator shall ensure that all personnel involved in flight operations are in

possession of a copy of the approved Safety and Emergency Procedures.

The procedures shall form a part of the Operations Manual and shall have

acceptance of the DGCA.

3.12 Ground Handling Procedures

3.12.1 An operator shall stipulate Ground Handling Procedures which clearly define

the lines of responsibilities for Ground Handling functions applicable at all

proposed operation bases, including the third party/contractual arrangements

and oversight thereof.

a. Fuel Services

b. Passenger Services

c. Baggage Services

d. Cabin Services

e. Weight Control

f. Ground Support Equipment

3.12.2 Ground Handling Procedures shall contain ground handling processes,

procedures and training requirements and subcontracting policies for all ground

handling operations.

3.13 Flight Safety Manual

3.13.1 An operator shall develop a Flight Safety Manual which shall lay down the

Company’s safety policies, flight safety awareness and accident/ incident

prevention programme in accordance with requirements stipulated in CAR

Section 5 Series F Part I.

3.14 Safety Management Systems Programme

3.14.1 An operator shall develop a Safety Management Systems Programme in

conformity to the State’s Safety Programme to ensure that all reasonable

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measures have been taken in order to identify possible risks inherited in the

system and human errors that may adversely affect flight safety and to mitigate

such risks and errors. The guidance material in addition to mandatory

requirements are published in CAR Section 1 Series C Part I.

3.14.2 The operator shall ensure that all personnel involved in operations of helicopter

are trained on SMS to the satisfaction of DGCA.

3.14.3 As a minimum the following shall be covered in the operators SMS programme.

a. The identification of safety hazards;

b. The necessary remedial action to mention an acceptable level of safety;

c. Continuous monitoring and regular assessment of the safety level achieved;

and

d. Continuous improvement to the overall level of safety

3.15 Flight Safety Documents System

3.15.1 General

Flight Safety Documents System encompasses all the safety related

documents published by the operator in view of guiding the users to

establish safety in the organization. Flight Safety Documents System needs

to be in the form of Manuals, Training Programmes, Checklists etc. and

needs to be organized in the following manner.

a. Time critical information, e.g., information that can jeopardize the safety of

the operation if not immediately available.

b. Time sensitive information, e.g., information that can affect the level of

safety or delay the operation if not available in a short time period.

c. Frequently used information

d. Reference information, e.g., information that is required for the operation but

does not fall under b) or c) above, and

e. Information that can be grouped based on the phase of operation in which

it is used.

ii)

Time critical information should be placed early and prominently in the flight

safety documents system. Time critical information, time sensitive

information, and frequently used information should be placed in cards and

quick-reference guides.

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iii)

The requirement of the Flight safety Document System to be published in

the OM and CAME as all the other publications forms a part of or link to the

OM and CAME.

3.16 Passenger Safety Briefing Card

3.16.1 An operator shall provide each passenger seat with a safety briefing card

containing in pictographic form, the information required. The safety briefing cards

need to be provided to supplement oral briefings and be in particular to the type and

model of helicopter and the specific emergency equipment in use. The safety briefing

card shall have the prior approval of the DGCA.

3.16.2 The passenger safety briefing card shall contain the following information as

a minimum

When seat belts are to be fastened. Illustration showing the fastening,

tightening and unfastening of seat belts.

When and how Oxygen equipment is to be used.

Restrictions on Smoking.

Location and method of opening emergency exits.

How to brace oneself while experiencing impact loads for all seat orientations.

Location and Use of Life Saving Rafts/Jackets for over water flights

Restrictions on use of mobile phone, laptops, electronic devices, etc

Route from passenger area to emergency exits, if applicable

3.16.3 For helicopters when cabin crewmembers are not required, all of 3.16.2 & the

location of the safety equipment in the helicopter shall be depicted in the safety card.

3.17 Minimum Equipment List

3.17.1 The operator is required to prepare the MEL based on the MMEL and shall

submit the same to the Certification Team for initial approval. The PAWI shall

scrutinize the MEL as per the APM checklist on the basis of the MMEL.

3.17.2 While approving the MEL, the procedures against (M) and (O) items are also

required to be approved. In case the manufacturer has provided a Dispatch Deviation

Guide (DDG)/ Configuration Deviation List(CDL) for the type of aircraft, while approving

the MEL, it shall be ensured that the DDG/ CDL is customized to the specific aircraft

configuration and MEL.

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3.17.3 After scrutiny by PAWI, it shall be submitted to the POI on file for further scrutiny

of the MEL from operations angle. A copy of the latest MMEL shall also be provided

to the POI who will scrutinize the MEL and complete the applicable job aid.

3.17.4 On successful review from operations angle the MEL and the duly signed

checklist will be returned to PAWI for approval action.

3.18 Statistical Returns

3.18.1 Each operator holding an AOP/AOC issued by the DGCA is required to

implement a programme to ensure that statistical returns in respect of commercial

operations will be furnished to the DGCA on a regular basis as stipulated in CAR

Section 3 Series C.

Permission to import helicopter

4.1

Permission to import helicopter shall be granted by Air Transport Directorate

(o/o DGCA). DGCA will issue the permission for import of helicopter subject to the

preparation and submission of documents required for the grant of AOP/AOC by the

applicant and their approval/ acceptance by DGCA. Requirements for import of

helicopter are stipulated in CAR Section 3 Series C

4.2

For applicants of Scheduled air operators permit, the permission shall be

subject to obtaining in-principle approval from the Ministry of Civil Aviation.

The Demonstration and Inspection Phase

CAR Section 3 Series C stipulates requirements for demonstration for the issue/

amendment to an AOP/AOC.

Note 1: Evacuation and ditching Demonstration including proving flight(s) are

required for AOC/ AOP applicants on addition/ induction of new helicopter

types introduced after 21^stMay 2009.

Note 2: Type trained Flight Operations Inspector, Airworthiness Inspector and Cabin

Safety Inspector will be required for the proving flight readiness check and

for the proving flights. In case of non-availability of type trained inspector(s),

the activity can be carried out by inspector(s) type-rated on similar category

and after undergoing a differences briefing.

5.1. General

5.1.1. Detailed requirements for facilities, staff, equipment and procedures are set out

in CARs and Circulars. The purpose of the pre-certification inspection is to ensure that

the requirements have been satisfied as explained in the written procedures of the

applicant. (See Appendix I for details)

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5.1.2. The DGCA must be satisfied that qualified and trained personnel are employed

in sufficient numbers on a full-time basis, where required. Amongst other

requirements, adequate facilities and equipment must be provided to allow staff to

carry out their duties related to the conduct of operations in compliance with

regulations and specifications or instructions contained in the company Operations

Manual.

5.1.3. Some of the work involved in the conduct of operations may be contracted out.

Such work may vary from non-operational aspects such as using an outside

accounting firm or contract catering through to essential items such as passenger

handling, helicopter servicing, helicopter maintenance at various levels, training of

flight, technical or cabin crew, or even to the extent of leasing helicopter and operating

crews. Operational items or services of any nature that are provided under contract

will normally require inspection and approval by the DGCA. The sub-contracting of

services can be accomplished only from another organization(s) acceptable to the

DGCA.

5.1.4 In order to demonstrate that the helicopter seating configuration and crew

training and emergency procedures will permit successful evacuation of passengers

in an emergency situation, the applicant will have to perform an emergency evacuation

demonstration prior to issuance of an AOP/ AOC for each helicopter type above 5700

kgs which the applicant intends to operate.

5.1.5 The applicant must demonstrate competency in removing and launching life rafts

or slide rafts and in the use of emergency and survival equipment contained in those

rafts, as applicable.

5.2

Proving/ Validation Flights

5.2.1 Proving flights will be required to demonstrate the readiness of the applicant to

conduct operations using the equipment, facilities, services and personnel identified

in the application and the associated documents in accordance with the procedures

spelt out in the Operations Manual. When these flights are conducted with

passengers e.g for re-certification of existing operators the flights will be termed as

validation flights. The scope and nature of proving flights are detailed in Appendix ‘I’

Para 18.

5.2.2. An initial draft of the Operations Specifications will be drawn up by the

applicant’s personnel and discussed in detail with the DGCA’s certification team who

will indicate to the applicant whether or not they are acceptable. This iteration (which

will be clearly labelled draft) will be used during the proving flights after clearance from

the Certification Team, which includes inspectors from Flight Standards, Airworthiness

and Cabin Safety. The draft Operations Specifications may be subsequently modified

as required by DGCA or requested by the operator before the final version is issued

by the DGCA with the Air Operator Permit to form a part of the Operations Manual.

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5.2.3 The applicant/ operator will be required to conduct proving/ validation flights for

the following purpose:

• First issue of an AOC/ AOP for scheduled or non-scheduled operations.

• The introduction of a new helicopter type in the organisation.

• Any other circumstances as considered necessary by DGCA.

Conduct of proving flight readiness check may be required for operations in a

new area of operations.

5.2.4

Conduct of a proving flight

Applicant for a non-scheduled operator’s/ Scheduled Commuter Service

permit with helicopter will be required to conduct a minimum of 2 flight

sectors on intended routes/ area of operations, with total duration of not less

than 2 flights hours.

5.3 Evacuation and Ditching Demonstration

5.3.1 Evacuation and Ditching drills will be required to demonstrate the readiness of

the applicant to demonstrate its capability to carry out evacuation/ ditching in

the event of an emergency, where applicable. The scope and nature of these

demonstrations are detailed in Appendix ‘I’ Paras 19 and 20.

Certification Phase

6.1

Final version of the Operation Specifications

6.1.1 Application for approval for special operations shall be submitted along with

para wise compliance of the CAR related to the operation. The supporting documents

fulfilling requirements of the relevant CAR and the specified Checklist shall also be

submitted by the operator. The checklist should comprise the compliance and its

location in the notes section. Verification remarks column of the checklist will be used

by DGCA officer for reviewing the request for approval.

6.1.2 PAWI shall scrutinise the application from airworthiness aspects and following

satisfactory CAR compliance, the same shall be forwarded to the POI for scrutiny of

Operations aspects. POI will evaluate the documents and complete the job aids and

forward the same to CFOI for issue of approval letter for the Special operations.

Approval copy for Special Ops will be forwarded to DAT for necessary action for

inclusion into Ops Specs.

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6.1.3 Upon successful completion of the proving flights, the certification team will

review the Compliance Statement to ensure all requirements have been satisfied for

the approval of Op Specs and grant of an Air Operator Permit/ Certificate.

6.2

Issue of an Air Operator Permit/ Air Operator Certificate

6.2.1 Based on the recommendations of the Certification team, the Project manager

will submit the file for approval of the Competent Authority. The detailed process to be

followed is given in Chapter 4.

6.2.2 Competent Authority, if satisfied, that the certification process has been

conducted according to the required standards, may approve the issuance of the

AOP/AOC along with required Operations Specifications certifying the competency of

the applicant as an air operator.

6.2.3 A scheduled commuter operator before starting operations shall have the

schedule approved from DGCA.

6.2.4 Certified true copy of an AOP/AOC along with Operations Specification shall be

carried on board each helicopter operated by the operator.

NOTE:

Sample of an Air Operator’s Permit/ Certificate & Operations

Specification is at Appendix E.

Renewal of Air Operator Permit/ Certificate

An applicant who is a holder of an AOP/ AOC shall apply for the renewal, to the DGCA

at least a minimum of 90 days prior to the date of expiry. The requirements for renewal

of the AOP/ AOC shall be as per the applicable part of CAR Section 3 Series C.

7.1

The Application for Renewal

7.1.1 A request for renewal of an AOP/ AOC shall be forwarded to the DGCA in the

prescribed form (Appendix L) at least 90 days prior to the lapse of the validity of the

AOP/ AOC.

7.1.2 The DGCA will then confirm a date for an inspection for AOP/ AOC renewal.

7.2

Inspection for Renewal of AOP/ AOC

7.2.1 The purpose of this inspection is to ensure that the applicant has maintained

the initial conditions of certification and is in a position to continue maintaining the

applicable certification standards.

7.2.2 It will be necessary for the DGCA to look in to any or all aspects of the operation

to ensure that the operator has continued to maintain the standards that were required

for initial certification, in particular to safety surveillance records in relation to training

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& checking records of flight crewmembers, base inspections, regulatory audits and

incidents / accidents reports etc. DGCA will renew the AOP/ AOC on the basis of the

satisfactory Audit Report. In case of short-comings, DGCA will inform the AOP/ AOC

holder well before the date of expiry of the AOP/ AOC to take appropriate corrective

actions up to the level of satisfaction of DGCA. Renewal of AOP/ AOC will be denied

in case the AOP/ AOC holder fails to come up with adequate corrective actions to the

best satisfaction of DGCA.

7.2.3 A formal Inspection shall be carried out by the Inspectors prior to renewal of

AOP/AOC. The Project Manager will determine the Inspection team & the relevant

areas that will be inspected by the team.

7.3

Lapsed AOP/ AOC

7.3.1 An AOP/AOC after issue requires renewal prior to expiry of the validity specified

thereon.

7.3.2 If the validity of an AOP/AOC lapsed, it may be restored after completion of a

process which may entail a part or whole of the certification process as may be

determined by the DGCA.

7.4

Amendment to AOP/ AOC/ Operations Specifications

7.4.1 Any requests for amendments to the Operations Specifications, Authorizations

or Limitations issued to AOP/ AOC holder, shall be forwarded to the Air

Transport Directorate of the DGCA by duly completing the document in

Appendix M. Air Transport Directorate will obtain confirmation from relevant

directorates of DGCA, by circulating the “Confirmation for Ops-Spec

amendments” form depending on the amendment requested by the Operator,

prior to granting approval.

7.4.2 Amendment to Ops Specs will be required for the following but not limited to:

a) Addition of new type of helicopter in the organization.

b) Addition of same type of helicopter in the organization.

c) Special operations.

d) Commencement of international operations to new destination.

7.4.3 For a) and c) the certification process applicable for issue of AOP/ AOC will be

followed. For d), the checklist for international operations will be complied.

(Appendix N). For b) the procedure at Chapter 5 shall be followed.

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CHAPTER 4 - CERTIFICATION PROCESS

1. Air Operator’s Certification Team

1.1. The certification of an air operator shall be carried out by an Air Operator’s

Certification (AOC) Team.

1.2. The AOC team comprises of Flight operations, airworthiness, cabin safety, and

dangerous goods inspectors (and other personnel as appropriate). Amongst

the assigned flight operations inspectors and airworthiness Inspectors, one

each shall be nominated as Principal Flight Operations Inspector (POI) and

Principal Airworthiness Inspector (PAWI).

The structure of the team is given below:

Project Manager (Technical)

Operations

Principal Operations

Principal Airworthiness

Inspector (POI)

Inspector (PAWI)

Cabin Safety

Air Safety

Ground Handling

Dangerous Goods

(As Required)

Air Operator’s Certification Team

1.3. The AOP/ AOC team shall be headed by the Project Manager who shall either

be a Deputy CFOI/ SFOI.

1.4.

The POI and the PAWI are responsible for Operations and Airworthiness

related matters for the issuance of an AOP/ AOC.

1.5.

POIs and PAWIs have with them flight operations inspectors and airworthiness

inspectors (at the regional offices) to assist in the certification process.

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1.6.

DAT (AOC) during Phase 1 of the certification process will obtain nominations

of inspectors (flight operations, airworthiness, Cabin Safety and Dangerous

Goods or any other discipline, as required) from AOCMB, for the formation of

the AOP/ AOC team.

1.7.

Nomination of POI/ PAWI: On receipt of intimation from Air Transport

Directorate:

●

CFOI along with DDG(DAW) shall identify the certification team, depending

on the size of the intended organization, consisting of PM, POI, PAWI, Cabin

Safety Inspector(s), Dangerous Goods Inspector(s), Air Safety representatives

and such additional Flight Operations Inspectors (FOI)/ Airworthiness

Inspectors from concerned regional offices to assist the POI and the PAWI.

●

The POI will act as the Team Leader (Operations) for FOIs, CSIs and DGIs for

such cases while the PAWI will be the Team Leader (Airworthiness) for the

Airworthiness Inspectors in his team.

●

Nomination of the Certification Team after approval by CFOI shall be sent to

DAT.

1.8.

Selection Policy - POI and PAWI:

1.8.1. Principal Operations Inspector (POI): POIs may be selected from any of the

FOIs trained in certification process. The additional FOI if nominated should

be trained on the tasks assigned to him/ her by the POI. The POI/ FOI must

be type rated for the relevant aircraft.

1.8.2. Principal Airworthiness Inspector (PAWI): PAWIs should be an

Airworthiness officer of the level of at least Dy. Director of Airworthiness for

an applicant of AOC and Asst Director of Airworthiness for applicant of NSOP.

The nominated officer as PAWI should have experience of at least ten year

of service in the directorate and trained on certification process.

1.8.3. Airworthiness Inspector(s): The nominated Airworthiness Official shall be an

officer of the level of at least Asst. Director of Airworthiness. The nominated

officer normally should be from the concerned regional office where the

operator is based. In the event of non-availability of adequately trained officer

from the concerned regional office, DAW (Hqrs) may nominate appropriately

trained officer from Hqrs/ other regional offices. The nominated officer as

Inspector (Airworthiness) should have experience of at least five years of

service and should be familiar with the process followed for certification of

AMO, CAMO, air operator certification process, Special operations etc. The

officer must have received type training on the type or on similar type of

helicopter applied for issuance of AOP/AOC for operation.

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Pre-application Phase

Pre - application Phase

NOC Received

Initial Enquiry

Apply for NOC

Send Statement

to MoCA

of Intent

YES

Facilitate Enquiry

Arrange for pre-

application meeting

Is a

Statement

of Intent

required?

Proceed to

Formal

Conduct pre-

Application

application meeting

phase

2.1. Perform Enquiry

2.1.1 The Applicant will make initial contact with Dte of AT in regards to applying for an AOP/

AOC.

2.1.2 The Air Transport Directorate will:

a. Offer non-technical advice as required.

b. Direct the Applicant to relevant forms and guidance material.

Statement of Intent

An applicant will be required to:

Apply to Ministry of Civil Aviation for obtaining Initial No-Objection Certificate; and

Formally notify the DGCA in the form of a Statement of intent (3 copies) once decided

to proceed with obtaining an AOP/AOC.

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2.2. Pre-application meeting

2.2.1. On receipt of the Statement of Intent, Air Transport Directorate will:

● Provide one copy of the Statement of Intent to AOCMB

● Initiate the process of obtaining nominations of inspectors (flight operations,

airworthiness, Cabin Safety and Dangerous Goods or any other discipline, as

required) from AOCMB, for the formation of the AOC/AOP team.

● Arrange for a pre-application meeting after formation of AOC/ AOP team

Pre-application Meeting

The Applicant must:

o Provide any information required by DGCA.

o Seek clarification on any areas of the certification process where required.

The DGCA Project Team will:

o Ensure the Applicant understands the requirements of the certification

process and has an appreciation of the resources that could be involved.

o Take minutes of the pre-application meeting.

DAT will:

(i) Prepare and finalise minutes of the pre-application meeting.

(ii) Distribute the minutes to all attendees.

(iii) Keep a record of the minutes on file.

Note: All documents pertaining to Phase 1 go to Phase 1: Pre-application

folders for the applicant.

Proceed to 3. Formal Application Phase

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Formal Application Phase

Formal

Application

phase

Attend formal

starts

application meeting

Complete and provide

Complete application

formal application with

and submit again

fees

Perform non-technical

assessment

application

complete

and fee

YES

Allocate technical

Arrange for formal

assessment team

application meeting

Proceed to

Document

Conduct formal

Evaluation

application

phase

The Applicant must:

Complete the relevant AOP/ AOC Form (3 copies). (On receipt of initial NOC from MoCA).

Prepare all required supporting documentation.

Send the signed AOP/ AOC Application Form together with all required supporting

documentation to DGCA.

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3.1. Perform technical /non-technical assessment

3.1.1. DAT will:

Receive the application and supporting documentation and acknowledge their receipt via

email.

Review the application for completeness along with fees.

Note: Initial overview of technical documents to be done by AOCMB.

If no deficiencies, proceed to 3.1.3.

If deficiencies, provide written advice to the Applicant of the deficiencies and request

Applicant to address the deficiencies before the application is processed.

3.1.2. The Applicant will:

Provide required information to DGCA if they wish to continue with their application.

3.1.3. The DAT will:

(a) Provide two copies of the application along with requisite documents to

certification team members.

(b) Call for a formal application meeting.

3.1.4 On receipt of the formal application from DAT, the PM will:

(a) Identify suitable date for the formal application meeting.

(b) Organize the formal application documentation into the Formal Application

section of the master certification file.

3.2. Formal application meeting

3.2.1. DAT will:

Arrange for the formal application meeting.

Inform the applicant of the formal application meeting.

Provide a draft agenda (prepared in consultation with PM) for the meeting.

Advice the applicant on any information needed to provide for the formal

application meeting.

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Formal application Meeting

The formal application meeting will be attended by:

a. Applicant’s team

b. Project Manager

c. POI and other officials related to Operations

d. PAWI and officers of concerned airworthiness regional office

e. Officials from DAT

f. Any other official required

3.3. During the formal application meeting:

3.3.1. The Applicant must:

a. Provide any information required by DGCA during the formal meeting.

b. Confirm on the Schedule of Events.

c. Confirm the draft Ops Specs.

d. Seek clarification on any areas of the certification process where

required.

3.3.2. The DGCA Certification Team will:

a. Review the Schedule of Events and discuss with the Applicant.

b. Take minutes of the formal application meeting.

3.4. After the meeting:

3.4.1. DAT will:

a. Prepare and finalise minutes of the formal application meeting.

b. Distribute the minutes to all attendees and to AOCMB.

c. Keep a record of the minutes on file.

3.4.2. PM will finalise the Schedule of Events

Note: All documents pertaining to Phase 2 go to Phase 2: Formal Application

folders for the applicant.

Proceed to 4. Document Evaluation Phase

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Document Evaluation Phase

This phase establishes whether the documentation provided by the Applicant is

complete and suitable for proposed operations, and meets the safety and legislative

requirements applicable to the operations proposed in the AOP/ AOC application.

Document Evaluation Phase

Participate in

documentation

Document

assessment

Evaluation

Phase

starts

Advice for

correction

PERFORM EVALUATION

OPERATIONS Document(s)

CABIN SAFETY Document(s)

Is the

Start technical

document-

Document

ation

Evaluation

DANGEROUS GOODS Document(s)

satisfactory?

GROUND OPERATIONS

Document(s)

YES

AIRWORTHINESS Document(s)

Approve

Document(s

Proceed to

Inspection and

Demonstration

phase

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4.1. Document evaluation:

4.1.1. The Project Manager must:

a. Gather all documents required for the technical documentation

assessment, in the master certification file, and assign them to the

appropriate team members for review and assessment.

b. Coordinate the following technical documentation assessments, in

accordance with procedures laid down in respective area manuals:

Operations

CAP 8200 - Flight Operations Inspectors

Manual

● CAP 8100 - Preparation and Certification

of Operations Manual

● CAP 8300 - Flight Operations Inspector’s

Performance

Based

Navigation

Operational Approval Handbook

Cabin Safety

CAP 8400 - Cabin Safety Inspector

Handbook

Airworthiness

Airworthiness Procedures Manual

Dangerous Goods

Dangerous

Goods

Inspectors’

Handbook

Safety Management System

CAR Section 1 Series C Part I

If not satisfactory, advise applicant for amendment.

Liaise with the Applicant to address any deficiencies that have been found. Deficiencies

must be confirmed to the Applicant in writing. Advise the Applicant, in writing, that the job

may be suspended until the deficiencies are addressed.

4.1.2 The Applicant must:

Address the deficiencies cited by DGCA and provide required documentation

or advice DGCA in a timely manner.

4.2. End of Document evaluation:

4.2.1. Certification Team Members must:

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a. Process acceptance/ approval of documents as required by regulations

in accordance with table listed below.

b. Communicate readiness of acceptance/ approval of documents to

Project Manager who will then confirm them to the applicant in writing

once the documents are approved/ accepted.

Document approval by AOCMB

Review by type qualified

Approved/

Approval*

Airworthiness

Operations

accepted

Minimum Equipment List

AWI

FOI

Approved

DDAW(H)

(MEL)

CDL

AWI

Accepted

DDAW(H)

Operations Manual

Part A - General

(a)

FOI

Approved

CFOI/ PM

Operations Manual

(b)

OM Part B - Aircraft type specific information

Aircraft Flight Manual

Approved/

AWI

FOI

CFOI/PM

(AFM)

Accepted

ii)Performance planning

FOI

Accepted

CFOI/PM

Document

Part C - Route

(c)

FOI

Approved

CFOI/PM

Manual

(d)

OM Part D - Training Program

i) Flight Crew

FOI

Approved

CFOI/PM

ii) Cabin Crew

CSI

Approved

PM/CSI

iii) Flight Dispatch

FOI

Accepted

CFOI/PM

Continuing Airworthiness

Maintenance Exposition

AWI

Approved

DAW

(CAME)

Maintenance Program

AWI

Approved

DAW

Training Manual for

AWI

Approved

DAW

maintenance personnel

SEP Manual (where

CSI

Accepted

PM/CSI

Applicable)

Flight Dispatch Manual

FOI

Accepted

CFOI/PM

(where applicable)

Safety Management

-I

DAS

Accepted

JDG(DAS)

System (SMS) Manual

10.

Special Operations (PBN etc)

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Review by type qualified

Approved/

Approval*

accepted

Airworthiness

Operations

Process (Spl Ops approval

Approved

for inclusion in Ops Spec.

AWI

POI

CFOI/PM

(Spl Ops)

or Letter of Authorisation)

Manual (Maintenance) for

specific operation (if

AWI

Approved

DAW

applicable)

Manual (Operations) (Part

POI

Approved

CFOI/PM

of OM)

Weight and Balance

11.

AWI

Accepted

DAW

Manual

Aircraft Loading and

12.

handling Manual or Ground

AWI

Accepted

DAW

Handling Manual

13.

Dangerous Goods Manual

DGI

Approved

DRI

14.

Passenger Briefing Card

AWI

CSI

Approved

PM/ CSI

Aircraft Search procedure

15.

AWI

FOI/ CSI

Approved

CFOI/ PM

checklist

16.

Load and Trim Sheet

AWI

Approved

DDAW

Aircraft Journey Log book/

17.

Maintenance Deferred

AWI

Approved

DDAW

Defects Log

Flight Safety Documents

18.

ASO

Accepted

DAS

System

Simulator/ flight training

19.

FOI

Approval

CFOI/ PM

device

Note: All documents pertaining to Phase 3 go to Phase 3: Documentation Evaluation

folders for the applicant.

Proceed to 5. Inspection and Demonstration Phase

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5. Inspection and Demonstration Phase

Inspection and Demonstration Phase

Participate in

inspection(s) and

Inspection and

testing

Demonstration

Phase starts

Provide Advice

Plan

OPERATIONS

CABIN SAFETY

Start Inspection and

Are the

testing

DANGEROUS GOODS

Inspection(s)

and testing

satisfactory?

GROUND OPERATIONS

AIRWORTHINESS

Plan PROVING

FLIGHTS (as required)

Conduct

Proceed to

Certification

PROVING FLIGHTS

phase

Verification and Testing

a. This phase will also include the verification and testing phase for confirmation of the

documentation approved/ accepted by DGCA.

b. Area-wise verification and testing will be sought by respective area Inspectors.

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5.1. Verification and Testing:

5.1.1. The certification team member(s), under the coordination and guidance

of the Project Manager shall:

a) Verify and test for confirmation of the documentation approved/ accepted

by DGCA.

b) Plan and conduct evacuation exercises, as required.

c) Plan and conduct ditching exercises, as required.

d) Advice on any changes required in the documents, in writing, as a result

of verification/ testing/ exercises.

5.1.2. The Applicant must:

a. Participate in the test/ verification/ demonstration.

b. Amend the documents, as required.

5.2. Final Inspection for issuance of an AOP/AOC:

5.2.1. The Project Manager and the Team shall:

a. Plan Final Inspection of the applicant for issue of an AOP/AOC.

b. Conduct the final inspection.

5.2.2. The Applicant must:

a. Participate in the final inspection.

Any deficiencies found during the Inspection and Demonstration phase will

need to be corrected before going for the Certification Phase

Note: All documents pertaining to Phase 4 go to Phase 4: Inspection and

Demonstration folders for the applicant.

Proceed to 6. Certification Phase

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6. Certification Phase

Complete Documentation and Checklists

6.1.1. Technical Assessment Team (POI and PAWI) must:

Complete all checklists pertaining to their areas

Submit completed checklists to the PM

Certification Phase

TECHNICAL ASSESSMENT TEAM

PROJECT MANAGER

Complete

Review and complete

DOCUMENTATION/ CHECKLISTS

Compliance Statement

OPERATIONS

Prepare

Put up to

AIR OPERATOR’S PERMIT/

CABIN SAFETY

Director General

CERTIFICATE

for approval and

issuance of AOP

DANGEROUS GOODS

Finalize

and Ops Spec

OPS SPECIFICATIONS

GROUND OPERATIONS

AIRWORTHINESS

In coordination with

Issue AOP and

POI

Operations

Specifications

Schedule approved

AOP and Operations

(for Scheduled Operators only)

Specifications

Operator commences

operations

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POI must complete Checklists (03 - 15)

PAWI must complete Checklists (15 and 20 - 36)

PM must complete Checklist (02)

DAT must complete Checklist (01)

6.1.2 Project Manager must:

a. Complete Checklist 02

b. Review the completed checklists provided by POI and PAWI for

completion.

c. Finalize Ops Spec

d. Send completed Checklist 02 and Ops Spec to DAT for initiating process

for issuance of AOP/AOC

6.2. Preparation of AOP/AOC and Ops Spec

6.2.1 On receipt of completed Checklist 01 and Ops Specs, DAT shall:

a. Complete Checklist 01

b. Complete Appendix J

c. Prepare AOP/AOC

d. Prepare final Ops Specs and obtain approval of CFOI before putting up AOP

and Ops Specs to Director General through the Joint Director General for

approval and signature.

6.3

Issuance of AOP/AOC and Ops Spec

6.3.1 DAT shall:

Issue the AOP/AOC and Ops Spec to the applicant

Provide a copy of AOP/AOC and Ops Spec to AOCMB for filing in Phase 5

section of the certification file.

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6.3.2 Applicant shall:

Receive AOP/AOC and may start operations provided the Schedule is

approved (for scheduled operators only).

6.3.3 PM shall:

Ensure that all documentation, checklists, approval signoffs, demonstration and

inspection documents, etc., are organized in the five-phase certification master

folders for the operator in AOCMB.

Note: The master file may consist of several binders reflecting the five phases

of the certification process, with additional referenced and incorporated

files or binders for such certification events as special operations

approvals and demonstration event.

Store all 5-Phase binders for the applicant at assigned locations. These form

the initial certification documents for the operator. Any amendment to the Ops

Specs (depending on the change required) shall be treated as a new

certification process and requiring a minimum of at least Phases 3, 4 and 5

completion.

Note: All documents pertaining to Phase 5 go to Phase 5: Certification folders

for the applicant.

END PROCESS

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CHAPTER 5 - MANAGEMENT OF AIR OPERATOR PERMIT/ CERTFICATE

1. Air Operator Certificate (AOC)/ Non-Scheduled Operator Permit (NSOP)

Team(AOP)

1.1 The continued management of an Air Operator Permit/ Certificate shall be carried

out by the dedicated Certificate Management team assigned to the Air Operator.

1.2 The Certificate Management team shall comprise of Flight operations,

airworthiness, cabin safety, and dangerous goods inspectors (and other personnel

as appropriate). Amongst the assigned flight operations inspectors and

airworthiness Inspectors, one each shall be nominated as Principal Flight

Operations Inspector (POI) and Principal Airworthiness Inspector (PAWI).

1.3 The structure of the Certificate Management team shall be same as the

Certification team except that there shall be no Project Manager.

1.4 The functions of the Certificate Management team shall include continuous

management of the Air Operator Permit/ Certificate and would consist of

amendments to operator’s documents based on changes in regulations or on

specific request of the operator. It would also include continued inspection and

surveillance of assigned certificated air operators (airworthiness and operations

aspects) to ensure continual compliance with regulations and safe operating

practices.

2. Changes to Documents.

2.1 Application Procedure. Application for amendments to existing approvals/

additional approvals shall be submitted to the Regional offices along with para wise

compliance of the CAR related to the approval sought. The supporting documents

fulfilling requirements of the relevant CAR and the specified Checklist shall also be

submitted by the operator. The checklist should comprise the compliance and its

location in the notes section. Verification remarks column of the checklist will be

used by DGCA officer for reviewing the request for approval.

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2.2 Amendments to the Ops Manual/ Checklists shall be submitted by the operators to

the POI. POI shall vet the same and get the amendments approved in accordance

with the applicable procedure for initial approval of the document.

2.3 Amendments to the MEL shall be submitted by the operator to the Regional Airworthiness

Office (RAO). The RAO shall scrutinize the MEL as per the APM checklist on the basis of

the MMEL. RAO shall forward the MEL to the POI along with the copy of the latest MMEL.

A link for the MMEL approved by the EASA and FAA has also been provided on the

DGCA’s website (http://dgca.nic.in). FOIs may obtain updated/latest copies of the MMEL

from the site. It needs to be ensured that the MEL is not less restrictive than the MMEL.

On successful review from operations angle and completion of checklist the MEL will be

returned to Regional office for approval.

2.4 Whenever an additional aircraft is added by an operator to their fleet that already

has such approvals, the approval may be granted by the AOCMB after scrutiny of

operator’s request from Airworthiness aspects and Operations aspects. The

checklists for Airworthiness aspects will be completed and documents forwarded

to POI by Regional Airworthiness Office. The POI will review the operations

aspects and assess the applicant’s capability to absorb the new helicopter(s) in

terms of availability of trained crews, maintenance arrangements, parking slots etc.

POI will complete the checklist before returning to Regional Airworthiness Office.

Approval letter shall be issued by the regional office under intimation to the Air

Transport Directorate for endorsement in the AOC.

2.5 In the case of applications for amendments to Op Specs, Regional Airworthiness

Office shall scrutinise the application from airworthiness aspects and following

satisfactory CAR compliance, the application along with a copy of completed

checklist shall be forwarded to the Airworthiness Directorate at DGCA HQ. The

application in respect of the operator based in a sub-regional office, after scrutiny

from airworthiness angle, shall be forwarded to Regional Airworthiness Office for

further action. After satisfactory evaluation and completion of checklist,

Airworthiness Directorate shall forward the proposal to FSD at DGCA, HQ for

scrutiny of Operational aspects. POI will evaluate the documents and complete the

job aids and forward the same to CFOI for issue of approval letter for the Special

operations. Approval copy for Special Ops will be forwarded to DAT for necessary

action for inclusion into Ops Specs.

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Appendix A

Helicopters

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APPENDIX A - Application For Permission To Establish Air Transport Services

In India

Form No. : DGCA/OP/001

For office use

APPLICATION FOR

only

PERMISSION TO ESTABLISH

AIR TRANSPORT SERVICES

AT File

IN INDIA

Number:

The undersigned applies for the permission pursuant to Aircraft Rules, 1937 to establish Air

Transport Services in India as herein described and certifies that the facts stated in this

application are complete, accurate and timely and that the copies of any documents to the

application are true copies.

1. Particulars of the Applicant

Name of the Operator:

ii.

Doing Business As:

iii.

Registered as:

iv.

Chief Executive Officer

Name

Title

Nationality

Telephone:

Contact Details

Fax:

Email:

Telephone:

Mailing address

Fax:

(Head Office):

email:

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vi.

Mailing address

Telephone:

(Main Flight

Operations

Fax:

Base):

email:

vii.

Principle place of

Telephone:

business (if

different from v &

Fax:

vi):

email:

Details of NOC

No.:

(issued by Ministry

of Civil Aviation)

Dated:

Valid upto:

Scope of Operation

Category of

Operations

Domestic

International

proposed

Passengers

Cargo

Mail

Passengers

Cargo

Mail

Scheduled

Yes/No

Commuter

Non-Scheduled

Yes/No

Proposed Routes:

(Please indicate proposed destinations, alternates, weekly frequencies and place(s) where the

traffic rights are sought - if applicable)

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Particulars of connecting services:

(Please furnish particulars regarding agreements with other carriers for Code-sharing, Block

Seat arrangements etc.)

Insurance:

(Please attach a concise statement of present and/ or proposed insurance coverage and limits

for employees, passenger liability, cargo and liability to third parties for injury or damages)

Operational Details

Nominated Accountable Manager

Name

Title

Qualification

Experience

Organizational Structure and Nominated Post Holders of the company:

(Attach the organization Structure)

Position

Name

Qualifications

Experience

Director Flight Operations

ii.

Director Engineering &

Maintenance

iii.

Director Quality Assurance

iv.

Director Safety Management

System

Director Flight Safety

vi.

Director Training

vii.

Director Security

viii.

Director Cabin Safety - if

applicable

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Helicopter Details

Type of helicopter

ii.

Year of Manufacture

iii.

Serial number

iv.

Registration number

Type of engines

vi.

Maximum seating capacity

vii.

MTOW

viii.

Design service goal

ix.

Flight cycles

Crew Requirement

xi.

Communication equipment

available

xii.

Navigation equipment

available

xiii.

Surveillance and safety

equipment available

Method of acquisition of helicopter:

Dry Lease

Owned

Wet Lease

Note: At least one helicopter will be either owned or dry leased.

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Hangar and parking facilities available:

Places of proposed operations and facilities and service available:

Training programmes for operational staff including particulars of simulators intended

to be used for training: (Please attach training programmes)

Training, Testing and checking arrangements for operational staff:

Preflight preparations , facilities for Flight-Following and Dispatch Procedures:

Line stations, staff and procedures, arrangement, facilities and services available for

flight dispatch:

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Proposed Flight Schedule :

Scheme for flight time, flight duty period, duty period and rest periods for fatigue

management of flight and cabin crew members:

Minimum number of flight crew and method of proposed recruitment:

Special approvals required:

DANGEROUS

PBN

HEMS

GOODS

ANY OTHER

Maintenance arrangements : (Please provide following information)

a) Maintenance Management Exposition

b) Maintenance Control Manual/CAME

c) Operator’s helicopter maintenance programmes

d) Journey Log

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e) Where appropriate, the technical specification(s) of the maintenance contract(s)

between the operator and any approved maintenance organization

f) Number of helicopters

Manuals : (Please provide following manuals in English language)

The following manuals in English (2 copies each) must accompany the application,

a) Operations Manual

b) Safety Management Systems Manual

c) Flight Safety Manual

d) Security Manual duly approved/ under approval by BCAS

e) Rotorcraft Flight Manual and Cockpit Checklists

f) Master Minimum Equipment List and Operator’s MEL

g) Maintenance Control Manual

h) Maintenance Schedule in respect of each helicopter

Training Manual for maintenance personnel

Company Administrative Procedures Policy (Only for Acceptance)

Note : Individual manuals and items listed below may form part of the ops manual.

k) Training Manual

Area Manual/ Navigation Information

m) Flight and Duty Time Limits information

n) Information for undertaking Special Operations

o) Dangerous Goods Manual

p) Weight and Balance Manual including Load and Trim Sheet

q) Safety and Emergency Procedures Manual including Helicopter Search

procedure checklist

r) Dispatch procedures information (Operational control, dispatch, flight

following) etc

s) Ground Handling Manual

t) Normal and emergency checklist

u) Passenger briefing card

10.

Declaration of Compliance

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11.

Schedule of Events

(Please complete Appendix B)

12.

Training proposals for DGCA Inspectors

(The applicant shall provide complete training (type courses) at its own expenses for

two Flight Operations Inspectors, two Airworthiness Inspectors and any other officer as

desired by DGCA, if the applicant intends operating helicopter which are not familiar to

DGCA Inspectors)

13.

Contracted Services

(Please provide details of facilities, services and equipment or personnel , which the

applicant has contracted)

14.

Line Station Management

(Please provide details as to how the applicant intends maintaining and operating its

line stations )

15.

Accident Victim Relief Programme

Additional information (Please supply any other information, which the applicant deems

16.

necessary and suitable in support of the application)

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FORMAL APPLICATION

General

1.1

Applicants seeking permission to establish air transport services in India in pursuance

of Aircraft Rules, 1937 shall submit their applications to Director General of Civil Aviation in

strict accordance with the procedures explained below.

1.2

Applicants should be fully aware of the requirements of the Directorate General of Civil

Aviation and its procedures for the initial certification of an operator. In this regard, applicants

are advised to make themselves familiar with the relevant rules, Civil Aviation Requirements

and procedures contained in Flight Operations Inspector Manual, Airworthiness Procedures

Manual and all other Manuals as applicable to the proposed operation.

1.3

The formal application “Application for Permission to establish Air Transport Services

in India” can be downloaded from DGCA’s Website under Forms.

1.4

Application shall be completed in full and adequate information pertaining to significant

and relevant facts, with respect to each of the areas described therein. In case an operator

feels that a particular paragraph in the form is not applicable to its scope of operations, the

same may be reflected as ‘Not Applicable’.

Exhibits and Documents: Exhibits and Documents should be attached with the

application and shall be properly identified with the pertinent portion of the application.

Signature: The original of the application shall be signed by the applicant/ proposed

Accountable Manager.

Amendment: Any change in the application by the applicant or additional information

required by DGCA shall be in the form of an amendment to the original application.

Maps: One set of maps is required showing particulars of the routes, including

distances in statute mile or nautical miles between the adjacent stopping places and

between the terminals of the route.

Instructions for Filling the Form

Pt 1. Particulars of the Applicant: Provide all the details as required in the form.

Pt. 2. Details of NOC: Provide the NOC number and the date of issue of the NOC including

its validity.

Pt. 3. Category of Operations Proposed:

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Indicate whether the proposed operations are domestic or international.

Specify whether the operations would be Scheduled Commuter or Non-Scheduled

Further, indicate whether the operations would be

a. Passengers only;

b. Cargo only;

c. Passengers, cargo and mail

Pt. 4. Proposed Routes: Provide the proposed destinations, alternates, weekly frequencies

etc. Specify if traffic rights are sought (applicable for International Ops)

Pt.

5. Particulars of connecting services:

Please furnish Particulars regarding

agreements with other carriers for Code-sharing, Block Seat arrangements etc if applicable

Pt. 6. Insurance A concise statement shall be furnished of present and / or proposed

insurance coverage and limits for;

a. Employees

b. Passenger liability

c. Cargo

d. Liability to third parties for injury or damages

Pt. 7. Operational details

The applicant shall provide detailed information concerning the following;

A. Nominee for the Accountable Manager with his/her qualifications and experience.

B. Organizational Structure and Nominated Post Holders of the company:

a. Attach the organization Structure

b. Provide the details of nominated post holders. The minimum post holders are specified in

the form wherein some of the post may be held concurrently by the same person. However,

the Director Safety Management shall be an independent functionary reporting directly to the

Accountable Manager only. Similarly the company may decide to have additional post holders

by splitting the responsibilities e.g. separate Directors for Operations and Training. This

organizational structure should be commensurate with the overall scope of operations of the

company.

C. Helicopter Details: Type of helicopter intended to be used for operations with year of

manufacture, serial number, registration number, type of engines, maximum seating capacity,

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MTOW, Design service goal, Flight cycles, crew requirement, Communication, navigation and

surveillance and safety equipment available.

D. Method of acquisition of helicopter: Owned/ Dry lease/ Wet lease along with certified copy

of agreement in the case of a lease. At least one helicopter will be either owned or dry leased.

E. Hangar & Parking facilities available: Provide details

F. Places of proposed operations and facilities and services available: Provide details

G. Training programmes for all operational staff including particulars of simulators intended to

be used for training: Please attach training programmes

H. Training, Testing and Checking arrangements for all operational staff: Provide details

I. Pre-flight preparation, facilities for Flight-following and Dispatch procedures: Provide details

J. Lines stations, staff and procedures, arrangement, facilities and services available for flight

dispatch: Provide details

K. Proposed Flight Schedule: Provide proposed schedule (in case of Scheduled Commuter

Operators only)

L. Scheme for flight time, flight duty periods, duty periods and rest periods for fatigue

management of flight and cabin crewmembers: Provide details.

M. Minimum number of flight & cabin crewmembers

N. Special approvals sought such as Transport of Dangerous Goods by Air, Hill Ops, Offshore

Ops, AMT/ HEMS, External Load, Hoist Ops, RNP/ PBN etc.

Pt. 8. Maintenance Arrangements

In respect of the operator’s maintenance system, the following information must be included

in the initial application for an AOP/ AOC and when applicable, any variation or renewal applied

for and each helicopter type to be operated;

a. The maintenance management exposition

b. Maintenance Control Manual/CAME

c. The operator’s helicopter maintenance programme(s)

d. Journey log

e. Where appropriate the technical specification(s) of the maintenance contract(s) between

the operator and a any approved maintenance organization.

f. The number of helicopters.

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Pt. 9. Manuals to be produced with the formal application. The manuals in English (2

copies each) as given in item 9 of Appendix A must accompany the application.

Pt. 10. Declaration of Compliance

The Operator shall provide along with the application a State of Compliance in respect of each

Regulation in the Aircraft Rules, 1937 and the applicable Civil Aviation Requirements. The

operator shall use Appendix - C for this purpose.

Pt. 11. Schedule of Events

The Operator shall provide a time schedule indicating as to how he proposes to establish

major facilities, services or equipment needed for the establishment of the proposed services.

The operator shall use Appendix - B for this purpose.

Pt. 12. Training proposed for DGCA Inspectors

The Applicant shall provide complete training (type course) at its own expense, for two Flight

Operations Inspectors, two Airworthiness Inspectors and any other officer(s) of DGCA as

specified by DGCA. Such training will be arranged if the applicant intends operating helicopter,

which are not familiar to DGCA inspectors.

Pt. 13. Contracted Services

Details of facilities, services and equipment or personnel, which the Applicant has contracted,

should be clearly specified.

Pt. 14. Line Station Management

Details as to how the applicant intends maintaining and operating its line stations should be

explained.

Pt. 15. Accident Victim Relief Programme: Provide details

Pt. 16. Additional Information

Supply any other information, which the applicant deems necessary and suitable in support of

the applicant.

Note: It would be desirable, if an applicant for an AOP/ AOC meets the relevant officials in

DGCA with prior appointment to gather the required information and obtain clarifications on

matters, which are not understood by him, prior to compilation of the application.

Pt. 17. Nature and description of helicopter livery: Provide details along with a colour

photograph.

Pt. 18. Details of Fees

The application should be accompanied with the applicable fees.

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Appendix B

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APPENDIX B - Schedule of Events

Director General of Civil Aviation, India

Application for an Air Operator Permit/ Certificate - Schedule

of Events

Name of

Company

Necessary document, action or event

Date

Proposed

Date received/

returned for

Reference

Date

accomplished

Changes

Note: Items with an * will be completed by DGCA

1.0

Pre application Phase

Submission of pre-application

(Statement of Intent)

Assignment of Certification Team by

DGCA)

Pre-application meeting

2.0

Initial application review phase

Submission of Formal Application

Initial Application Review

Formal Application Meeting

3.0

Documentary Evaluation Phase

A. MANAGEMENT RESUMES

Submission of Management Resumes

Completion of Compliance Checklist 01 -

Assessment of General Status

Review and acceptance of Management

Resumes

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Name of

Company

Necessary document, action or event

Date

Proposed

Date received/

returned for

Reference

Date

accomplished

Changes

Note: Items with an * will be completed by DGCA

a) Accountable Manager (General

manager / Chief executive Officer)

b) Director Flight Operations

c) Director Engineering and

Maintenance

d) Director Safety Management (SMS)

e) Director Training

Director Flight Safety

g) Directory Quality

h) Director Security

Director Cabin Safety - if applicable

B. DOCUMENTS

1. Operations Manual

Submission of Operations Manual (OM)

Completion of compliance Checklists

03, 04, 05, 06, 07, 08 and 11(if applicable)

Review and approval of the Operations

Manual

2. Safety & Emergency Procedures

Manual

Submission of Cabin Crew member

Safety & Emergency Procedures Manual

Review and Acceptance of Safety &

Emergency Procedures Manual

3. Flight Safety Manual

Submission of Flight Safety Manual

Review and approval of Flight Safety

Manual

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Name of

Company

Necessary document, action or event

Date

Proposed

Date received/

returned for

Reference

Date

accomplished

Changes

Note: Items with an * will be completed by DGCA

4. Safety Management Systems

Manual

Submission of Safety Management

Systems Manual

Review and approval of Safety

Management Manual

5. Flight Operations Training Manual

Submission of the Flight Operations

Training Manual

Review and approval of the Flight

Operations Training Manual

6. Proposed Flight Crew

Qualifications

Submission of Proposed Flight Crew

Qualifications

Review and acceptance of Proposed

Flight Crew Qualifications

7. Helicopter Operating Manual (OM)

Submission of an updated Helicopter

Operating Manual (OM)

Submission of Copy of Current Rotorcraft

Flight Manual

Completion of compliance Checklist 03

8. Normal and Emergency Checklists

Submission of Normal and Emergency

Checklists

Review and Acceptance of Normal and

Emergency Checklists

9. Load and Trim Sheet

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Name of

Company

Necessary document, action or event

Date

Proposed

Date received/

returned for

Reference

Date

accomplished

Changes

Note: Items with an * will be completed by DGCA

Submission of Load and Trim Sheet

Review and Approval of Load and Trim

Sheet

10. Route and Heliport Manual

Submission of the Route/Area Manual

Review and acceptance of the Route/

Area Manual

11. Minimum Equipment List (MEL)

Submission of Helicopter MMEL

Submission of Minimum Equipment List

(MEL)

Submission of Current Manufacturer’s

MMEL Deviation Guide

Completion of compliance Checklist 27

Review and Approval of Minimum

Equipment List (MEL)

12. Maintenance Control Manual/

CAME

Submission of the Maintenance Control

Manual/ CAME

Completion of Checklist 4, 16, 20, 21, 22,

23, 24, 26, 28, 29, 34 & 35 Conformance

report

Review and Approval of the Maintenance

Control Manual / CAME

13. Helicopter Journey Log book

Submission of a Proposed Helicopter

Journey Log book

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Name of

Company

Necessary document, action or event

Date

Proposed

Date received/

returned for

Reference

Date

accomplished

Changes

Note: Items with an * will be completed by DGCA

Approval of a Proposed Helicopter

Journey Log book

14. Maintenance Deferred Defects Log

Submission of a Proposed Maintenance

Deferred Defects Log (part of Journey Log

book)

Submission of Checklist 35 Conformance

report

Approval of a Proposed Maintenance

Deferred Defects Log

15. Weight and Balance Manual

Submission of a Weight and Balance

Manual

Submission of compliance Checklist 25

Review and acceptance of the Weight and

Balance Manual

16. Ground Handling Manual

Submission of a Ground Handling Manual

Submission of compliance Checklist 02

Review and acceptance of the Ground

Handling Manual

17. Maintenance Program

Submission of the Maintenance Program

Submission of Current Manufacturer’s

Planning Document

Approval of the Maintenance Program

18. Flight Safety Documents System

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Appendix B

Helicopters

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Name of

Company

Necessary document, action or event

Date

Proposed

Date received/

returned for

Reference

Date

accomplished

Changes

Note: Items with an * will be completed by DGCA

Submission of Flight Safety Documents

System

Acceptance of the Flight Safety

Documents System

19. Security Manual (to be submitted to

BCAS for approval)

C. OTHER EVALUATIONS

Submission of a copy of Helicopter Lease

or Ownership Papers

Approval of the lease: maintenance and

operational control

Submission of a copy of the Helicopter

Insurance Policy

Submission of Draft contract agreement

for continuous Airworthiness)

4.0 Inspection and Demonstration Phase

Inspection of Helicopter (compliance of

Checklist 3,09 & 30)

Training Facilities & Equipment Inspection

(Compliance of Checklist 12)

Simulator/Training Device Inspections

Authorization for commencement of flight

crew ground Training

Authorization of commencement of Flight

crew flight training

Evaluation of the flight crew flight training

Evaluation of designee actions

Designation of examiners

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Name of

Company

Necessary document, action or event

Date

Proposed

Date received/

returned for

Reference

Date

accomplished

Changes

Note: Items with an * will be completed by DGCA

Authorization for commencement of cabin

crew ground training

Evaluation of Operators Cabin

crewmember Training

Maintenance Training Facility Inspections

Authorization for commencement of

maintenance training

Structure & Support Service Inspection

(Check List 10)

Operational Control Inspection

Station (Base/Line) Inspection

Maintenance Main Base & Facility

Inspection(Check List 10, 22, 24, 26 & 35)

Maintenance Control Inspection (Checklist

31)

Contractor Maintenance Facility

Inspections (Checklist 22, 24 & 33), if not

approved by DGCA

Maintenance Station Inspection (Checklist

22, 23, 24 & 33)

Helicopter Records Inspection (Checklist

07, 29 & 31)

Fuelling of helicopter (Checklist 23)

Preparation for the Ground Ditching /

Evacuation demonstration if applicable

Conduct of ground/ditching evacuation

demonstration

Preparation for the Proving Flight(s)

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Name of

Company

Necessary document, action or event

Date

Proposed

Date received/

returned for

Reference

Date

accomplished

Changes

Note: Items with an * will be completed by DGCA

Conduct of the Proving Flight(s) (Check

List 19)

Helicopter Inspection

Maintenance Flight Deck En-route

Inspection

Method of Flight Supervision

Minimum Safe Altitudes

Passenger Briefing Card

5.0

Certification Phase

Prepare Air Operator Permit/ Certificate

Prepare Operations Specifications

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APPENDIX C - Statement of Compliance

DECLARATION OF CONFORMANCE TO RULES AND CIVIL AVIATION

REQUIREMENTS

AIR OPERATOR COMPLIANCE CHECK LIST

Minimum requirements for

grant of Permit to operate Non-

Scheduled Air Transport

Services

Requirements for Grant of

AOC for Scheduled Commuter

Air Transport Service

Safety Management System

(SMS)

Minimum Equipment List

(MEL)

Continuing Airworthiness

Requirements

Weight and balance control of

an aircraft

Provision of Medical Supplies

in Aircraft

Aircraft Log Books

Document to be carried on

board by Indian registered

aircraft

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Description in brief

Level of Operator’s

Satisfactory/

compliance

Unsatisfactory

Mark first with:

(to be filled by)

R for Read, Ustd for

DGCA

Understood and Cmpd for

compliance

(please give reference to the

applicable Page, Section and

Chapter, Volume and the title of

the Company’s relevant

document which gives effect to

the regulatory requirements,

when compliance is indicated)

D5F-F1

Flight Safety Awareness and

Accident/ Incident Prevention

Programme.

D5F-F2

Monitoring of DFDR/ QAR/

PMR data for Accident/Incident

Prevention

D5F-F3

Procedure for Medical

examination of aircraft

personnel for alcohol

consumption

D5X-X1

Safety Hazard - Use of

Mobile/Cellular Telephones

inside the Aircraft during flight.

D7D-D6

Requirements for the Qualification

of Aircraft Full Flight Simulators

and Synthetic Flight Training

Devices

D7I-I4

Criteria for Approval of Check

Pilot, Instructors and

Examiners for Operations with

Helicopters

D7I-I7

Criteria for approval of Ground

Instructors

D7I-I8

Criteria for approval of CRM

Facilitators

D7I-I9

Authorization of Synthetic

Flying Instructors for

Helicopters

D7J-J1

Flight Duty Time and Flight

Time Limitations - Cabin

Attendant

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Flight and Duty Time

Limitations and Rest

Requirements of flight crew

engaged in helicopter

operations.

Cabin Crew Training

Flight Dispatchers Training

and Approval

Load and Trim Sheet

Requirements

Preparation and use of Cockpit

and emergency check list

Flight Crew Training And

Qualification Requirements For

Commercial Helicopter

Operations

Operation of Commercial Air

Transport - Helicopters

Requirements for preparation

of Operations Manual

Performance Based

Navigation (PBN)

Aero-Medical Transport

Rules of the Air

Establishment of Minimum

Flight Altitudes

Approval of Dangerous Goods

Training Programme

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Description in brief

Level of Operator’s

Satisfactory/

compliance

Unsatisfactory

Mark first with:

(to be filled by)

R for Read, Ustd for

DGCA

Understood and Cmpd for

compliance

(please give reference to the

applicable Page, Section and

Chapter, Volume and the title of

the Company’s relevant

document which gives effect to

the regulatory requirements,

when compliance is indicated)

AIC

Procedure and precaution

10/1983

regarding fuelling and

defuelling of aircraft, fire and

general safety.

AIC

Avoidance of fire hazard-

18/1985

fuelling near jet aircraft.

AIC

Grant of Permission for

3/2010

providing ground handling

services at Airports other than

those belonging to the Airports

Authority of India

General

Employment of Services of

AC 1 of

Aviation Medicine Specialist by

2011

all Operators

Helicopter Emergency Medical

02/2016

Services

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Appendix D

Helicopters

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APPENDIX D - Certification Check Lists

General

There are 30 checklists which are required to be completed prior to certification

of applicant for AOP/ AOC.

a. Checklist number 02-15 will be completed by the POI with the assistance

of Operations team members.

b. Checklists number 15 and 20-36 will be completed by PAWI with the

assistance from airworthiness team members.

c. Check list 01 together with the Final report will be completed by the

Project Manager at the completion of the Certification Process.

The rest of the Team Members will use their respective checklists for

conformance of their respective discipline as per their Inspector Manual.

The Checklists contain only the items that should be examined or looked into.

The inspector concerned will determine the standards (assessment criteria)

against which an item in the checklist should be assessed. The following

principles will be used a rule of thumb.

a. Check the item against the rules/ requirements issued, and in the

absence of such,

b. Check the item against the requirements in the Chicago Convention or

any Annex thereto - The guidance in these Checklists may change

from time to time to comply with requirements published by ICAO

and as stipulated by the DGCA.

The Checklist is provided only for the guidance of the Civil Aviation Inspectors.

However, if an applicant is desirous of knowing the result of an assessment in

respect of a particular area, the inspector concerned may issue a copy to the

applicant.

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CL 01(DGCA/OP/CL/01)

Certification of Applicants For Air Transport Operations in India

CHECKLIST 01 - Assessment of General Status

Name of the Applicant: ………………………………………………………………………

[When an item is marked to be unsatisfactory, indicate reasons under the Remarks column in detail]

Status

Item

Remarks

Sat

Unsat

Initial NOC by Ministry

NOC No.

Validity

Insurance Arrangements: Whether

the applicant has organized an

adequate Insurance Policy from an

Organization acceptable to DGCA in

respect of

Aircraft

Passengers & Cargo

Third Party liabilities

Crewmembers

Applicant’s staff & general properties

Victim Protection Plan in case of an

accident

General Remarks :

………………………………………

…………………………..

………………………

Name of the Officer (DAT)

Signature

Date

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CL 02(DGCA/OP/CL/02)

Certification of Applicants For Air Transport Operations in India

CHECKLIST 02 - Technical assessment for issue of Air Operator Certificate

(AOC) / Operations Specifications

Name of the Applicant: ………………………………………………………………………

(The Satisfactory column is the outcome, subsequent to the review of all below items )

Sat

Date and Review

Item

Administrative

Checklists 02-15 (CL 16-19

intentionally left for future use)

Checklists 20 - 36

Completed Compliance Statement

Management Personnel Acceptance

Accountable Manager

Director Flight Operations

Director Engineering and Maintenance

Director Quality

Director Safety Management

Director Flight Safety

Director Training

Director Security

Director Cabin Safety - if applicable

Documentation and its

approval/ acceptance

Operations Manual

Safety Management Systems Manual

Training Manual, if applicable

Security Manual

Route Manual/ Navigation Information,

if applicable

Dangerous Goods Manual, if applicable

Rotorcraft Flight Manual

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Sat

Date and Review

Item

Master Minimum Equipment List and

Operator’s MEL

CAME

Maintenance Schedule in respect of each

helicopter

Weight and Balance Manual, if applicable

Safety and Emergency Procedures

Manual, if applicable

Passenger Briefing Card

Flight Safety Manual

Ground Handling Manual, if applicable

Any other Manual produced by the

Manufacturer

Special authorizations

a) AMT/ HEMS

b) RNP/ PBN

c) Transport of Dangerous Goods by Air

Additional Information requirement for

endorsement on Permit

Continuing Airworthiness (Continuous

Maintenance Organization Approval -

CAMO)

General Remarks :

…………………………………

…………………….

………………… Date

Name of the Project Manager

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CL 03(DGCA/OP/CL/03)

Certification of Applicants for Air Transport Operations in India

CHECKLIST 03 - Assessment of Post Holders

Name of the Applicant: ……………………… Location……………………………….

(The Satisfactory column is the outcome subsequent to the review of all below items )

Date & Review

Sat

Item

Qualified and Competent Employees:

Organization has suitably qualified and

competent employees (Refer Appendix H)

to act as:

Accountable Manager

Director Flight Operations

Director Training

Director Engineering and Maintenance

Director Quality

Director Safety Management

Director Flight Safety

Director Security

Director Cabin Safety - if applicable

10.

Director Ground Operations

11.

Chief Pilot(s)

Remarks:

……………………….

………………………

…………………

Name of Inspector

Signature

Date

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CL 04(DGCA/OP/CL/04)

Certification of Applicants for Air Transport Operations in India

CHECKLIST 04 - Assessment of Operations Manual

Name of the Applicant: ……………………… Location……………………………….

(The Satisfactory column is the outcome subsequent to the review of all below items )

Guidelines This checklist is subdivided in to five steps viz;

1. Checking the Operations Manual against the Declaration of Conformance/

Compliance Statement for completeness and acceptability.

2. Checking specific material required by legislation for acceptability.

3. Checking material copied in to the Operations Manual for agreement with the Flight

Manual.

4. Checking the Operations Manual against CAR Section 8 Series O Part VII and CAP

8100 for completeness and uniformity with the given standard format.

5. Checking that all changes required by DGCA to the Operations Manual have been

included in the final draft.

Sat

Item

Date & Review

Conformity of the Manual with relevant

CARs (CAR compliance)

All text and material taken from a flight

Manual and placed into the Operations

Manual has been checked for accuracy,

completeness and agreement with the

original text or material

Checklist for OM Part A completed as per

CAP 8100

Checklist for OM Part B completed as per

CAP 8100

Checklist for OM Part C completed as per

CAP 8100

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Helicopters

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CL 05(DGCA/OP/CL/05)

Certification of Applicants for Air Transport Operations in India

CHECKLIST 05 - Organizational Structure, Staffing and Administrative Facilities

Name of the Applicant …………………………

Location

…………………

(The Satisfactory column is the outcome subsequent to the review of all below items )

Sat

Item

Date & Review

Qualified and Competent Employees:

Organization has sufficient number of

suitably qualified and competent

employees to act as;

Flight Crew

Cabin Crew, if applicable

Technical trainers and crew

Operational Planning and Control

Passenger and Load Handling

Administrative Support

Administrative Facilities

Office Accommodation and equipment

Office support staff

Communication/ Information System that

can communicate efficiently and rapidly

with all crew and operational support staff

Printing and/ or distribution facilities

Office Environment

Facilities for Record Keeping

Technical Library

Facilities

Arrangements

Availability of documents such as

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Helicopters

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Sat

Item

Date & Review

Aircraft Act and Rules

ii.

Civil Aviation Requirements (CAR)

iii.

Operations Manual

iv.

Maintenance Control Manual (CAME)

Minimum Equipment list

vi.

Flight and Duty Time Limitations

viii.

Applicable Maps & Charts

Rotorcraft Flight Manual

Air Operator Certification Manual - Helicopters (2017) - page 1