Under the auspices of the Royal Aeronautical Society (RAeS), an International Working Group (IWG) has been working for the last 4 years on developing new criteria for the classification and qualification of civil helicopter Flight Simulation Training Devices (FSTDs), based on pilot training tasks. The intention is for the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) to publish a new volume of the Manual of Criteria for the Qualification of FSTDs – Document 9625 dedicated to helicopters and its subsequent adoption by civil aviation authorities worldwide.

The work takes advantage of a similar effort for fixed wing aircraft which has already been published by ICAO.

The Helicopter IWG has expert international representation from the industry, including regulators, helicopter and simulator manufacturers, training organisations, helicopter operators and users.

Key Points
1. This is the first time that helicopter simulation has been considered as a separate subject by ICAO.
2. An analysis of pilot training tasks and licences forms the basis of the new device definitions, which represents a significant change in approach to existing processes.
3. One of the key aims of the work is to improve access to simulation across the helicopter industry and thus improve safety.

Consultation
The draft of Volume 2 of the new ICAO 9625 Edition 3 document is intended for submission to ICAO early in 2011. It is available on the Royal Aeronautical Society’s website at: www.raes-fsg.org.uk/outsiders/

Interested parties are encouraged to review the material and make comments using the website tool. The comment period will close on 20 January 2011.

Benefits
The work of the Helicopter IWG is part of the largest harmonisation effort ever attempted in the history of the flight simulation industry. It is anticipated that achieving an internationally accepted definition of helicopter FSTDs will have significant benefits across the industry. This should:
1. reduce and simplify the administrative burden for stakeholders
2. permit a more consistent approach by simulator manufacturers
3. provide a clear expression of the suitability of use of specific FSTDs for the training tasks associated with licences, ratings, checks, etc. for training organisations and operators
4. improve the quality of training and reduce costs

Ultimately, it will improve access to flight simulation and thus quality of training, and provide a welcome improvement in aviation safety.

Further Information
For further information, please contact any of the following:
Training sub-group:
Matt Jennings (matt@asc-limited.co.uk)
Technical sub-group:
Stephane Clement (sclement@cae.com) or Rene Tassan (Rene.Tassan@eurocopter.com)