FLIGHT AT EXTREMELY LOW SPEEDS

S tall speed is defined as the lowest airspeed at which 1 'G' level flight can be achieved. However it is also possible to fly the airplane at speeds below the defined stall speed. This regime is outside the certified flight envelope. There are several important factors that a pilot must know when the airplane is at extremely low speeds.

TIME OF USEFUL CONSCIOUSNESS

I n the 'World of Hypoxia' the Time of Useful Consciousness (TUC) is a very important parameter. For low ambient pressure conditions it indicates the time available to perform purposeful activities, such as oxygen mask donning or aircraft control. Beyond this time frame mental and physical capabilities are dangerously impaired and finally result in unconsciousness and potentially death.TI
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FAA PROPOSED RULE MAKING FOR FIRST OFFICERS

F AA Notice of Proposed Rulemaking issued on Feb. 29, 2012, which would require that first officers hold an Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) certificate and a minimum of 1,500 hours flight time to obtain the certificate. Existing FAA regulations do not require a first officer to hold an ATP certificate; only the pilot in command must meet this certificate requirement.

Industry experts discussing the proposed rule, tend to emphasize on being cautious in creating an unnecessary pilot shortage and barriers to crew recruitment. Also the debate is on whether the new requirements would help in raising the bar as far as safety is concerned.

One notable comments to FAA proposed rulemaking comes from Airlines for America(A4A),who have urged FAA to significantly revise its proposed requirements for pilot certification and provide a system that builds on the industry’s strong safety record, is recommended by safety experts and that recognizes the quality of a pilot’s training and experience, rather than relying solely on a specific quantity of flight hours.

FUEL SAVING A320 SHARKLETS

A320 NEO

Anew milestone has been achieved in Airbus’ application of “Sharklets” to its single-aisle product line with this week’s rollout of the company’s first new-build A320 fitted with the large wingtip devices, which will reduce fuel burn and enhance aircraft performance.

TURBULENCE AND SEAT BELTS SIGNS

Turbulence is the reason for inflight injuries of crew and passengers. Turbulence is defined as follows :

Light turbulence---  Light turbulence - briefly causes slight, erratic changes in altitude and/or attitude, slight strain against seat belts, little or no diffuculty in walking, service may be conducted.