July 1, 2005 The purpose of this policy is to establish procedures and policies for the Special Operations Section (SOS) and to outline operating guidelines for daily operations

  [ Administration ]  [ Personnel ]  [ General Operations ]  [ Field Operations ]  [ Criminal Investigations
[ Support Operations ]  [ Special Orders ]  [ Command Memo ]  [ Library ]  [ Search ]  [ Home ]

 

Atlanta Police Department

Policy Manual

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Standard Operating

Procedure

 

Effective Date

October 1, 2011

 

APD.SOP.4041

 Helicopter Unit

Applicable To:  All division, section commanders, and Helicopter Unit employees

Approval Authority:  Chief George N. Turner

Signature:  Signed by GNT

Date Signed:  10/11/11

 

Table of Content
 

1.          PURPOSE  PAGEREF _Toc301965469 \h 1

2.          POLICY  PAGEREF _Toc301965470 \h 1

3.          RESPONSIBILITIES  PAGEREF _Toc301965471 \h 2

3.3        Pilot in Command (PIC): PAGEREF _Toc301965472 \h 3

3.4        Tactical Flight Officer: PAGEREF _Toc301965473 \h 3

3.5        Maintenance Officer: PAGEREF _Toc301965474 \h 4

3.6        Safety Officer: PAGEREF _Toc301965475 \h 4

3.7        Unit Certified Flight Instructor (UCFI)/Training Officer: PAGEREF _Toc301965476 \h 5

3.8        Inventory Control Officer: PAGEREF _Toc301965477 \h 5

3.9        All Pilots are responsible for: PAGEREF _Toc301965478 \h 5

3.10      All employees shall: PAGEREF _Toc301965479 \h 5

4.          ACTION   PAGEREF _Toc301965480 \h 6

4.1        Aircrew Member Qualifications  PAGEREF _Toc301965481 \h 6

4.2        Aircrew Member Flight/Training Requirements  PAGEREF _Toc301965482 \h 7

4.3        Unit Equipment/Vehicles  PAGEREF _Toc301965483 \h 8

4.4        Single Pilot Operations  PAGEREF _Toc301965484 \h 8

4.5        Preflight Procedures  PAGEREF _Toc301965485 \h 8

4.6        Calls for service  PAGEREF _Toc301965486 \h 9

 

 

 

4.7        Vehicle Pursuits  PAGEREF _Toc301965487 \h 9

4.8        Landings  PAGEREF _Toc301965488 \h 10

4.9        Static Displays  PAGEREF _Toc301965489 \h 11

4.10      Formation Flights  PAGEREF _Toc301965490 \h 11

4.11      Requests for service from outside agencies  PAGEREF _Toc301965491 \h 12

4.12      Medical Emergency Flights  PAGEREF _Toc301965492 \h 12

4.13      SWAT calls for service  PAGEREF _Toc301965493 \h 12

4.14      Instrument Meteorological Conditions (IMC) flight: PAGEREF _Toc301965494 \h 13

4.15      Instrument Flight Rules (IFR) Flight PAGEREF _Toc301965495 \h 13

4.16      Airspace Management PAGEREF _Toc301965496 \h 13

4.17      Aero medical requirements  PAGEREF _Toc301965497 \h 13

4.18      Unit Training  PAGEREF _Toc301965498 \h 14

4.19      Pilot Trainees  PAGEREF _Toc301965499 \h 15

4.20      Standardization  PAGEREF _Toc301965500 \h 15

4.21      No-Notice and Annual Check Ride Failures  PAGEREF _Toc301965501 \h 16

5.          DEFINITIONS  PAGEREF _Toc301965502 \h 16

6.          CANCELLATIONS  PAGEREF _Toc301965503 \h 16

7.          REFERENCES  PAGEREF _Toc301965504 \h 16

 

1.               PURPOSE

 

To provide procedures for the safe and effective operation of the Atlanta Police Department Helicopter Unit.

 

2.               POLICY

 

2.1              The Atlanta Police Department employs the Helicopter Unit as a major tool to address the problems of crime and calls for service. The Helicopter Unit shall provide aerial support to the Field Operations Division, Criminal Investigations Division, and other Departmental employees.

 

2.2              The activities of the Helicopter Unit include, but are not limited to:

 

1.    Crime prevention through directed patrols.

 

2.    Assisting ground units on vehicle and foot pursuits.

 

3.    Assisting on S.W.A.T calls.

 

4.    Locating missing persons.

 

5.    Providing aerial surveillance and assistance on warrant service.

 

6.    Providing supervisors an aerial platform for command and control purposes.

 

7.    Supporting aerial rescues or needs of other public safety agencies as needed.

 

2.3              The Helicopter Unit shall operate in accordance with all applicable Federal Aviation Regulations (FAR) and Procedures.

 

2.4              Only persons assigned to the Helicopter Unit may operate Atlanta Police Department aircraft. Other persons (including sworn employees of the Atlanta Police Department) may ride in departmental aircraft only with prior approval of the unit commander.  Persons other than employees of the department must, in addition to receiving authorization from the SOS Commander, sign a liability waiver.

 

3.               RESPONSIBILITIES

 

3.1              The Special Operations Section (SOS) commander shall monitor the safe and effective operation of the Helicopter Unit.  He or she shall determine whether to approve administrative decisions such as passengers in aircraft who are not members of the squad, formation flights, and flights assisting other agencies.

 

3.2              In addition to general supervisory duties, the unit commander is responsible for the following:

 

3.2.1           Drafting future Letters of Agreement (LOA) between the Helicopter Unit and outside agencies, and forwarding them through the chain of command for review and final approval.

 

3.2.2           Maintaining and updating all current inter-departmental LOA’s.

 

3.2.3           Safe and effective operation of the Helicopter Unit through direct supervision and leadership with adherence to this directive and those referenced herein.

 

3.2.4           Assigning employees to the following additional duties, which are essential for the safe, effective, and efficient operation of the unit:

 

1.    Safety Officer

 

2.    Maintenance Officer

 

3.    Unit Certified Flight Instructor (UCFI)/Training Officer

 

4.    Inventory Control Officer

 

3.2.5           Evaluating the performance of members assigned to the unit.

 

3.2.6           Submitting all required reports to the Special Operations Section (SOS) commander.

 

3.2.7           Reviewing all daily/monthly reports submitted by subordinates for accuracy, completeness and conformity to departmental policy, FAA regulations, City, State and Federal Laws.

 

3.2.8           Ensuring proper maintenance of Departmental aircraft, police vehicles, and other ground equipment assigned to the Helicopter Unit.

 

3.2.9           Conducting aircrew training in accordance with FAA regulations and Departmental Policies.

 

3.2.10         Scheduling flight hours, aircrew assignments, and duty hours (hours may vary as circumstances dictate).

 

3.2.11         Acting as liaison between the Helicopter Unit, divisions of the Department and other agencies.

 

3.2.12         Scheduling flights or missions other than requests for service from police communications.

 

3.2.13         Establishing and maintaining an “on-call” aircrew roster in the event an aircraft is needed at a time other than during normal duty hours.

 

3.2.14         Evaluating and making recommendations for waivers to aircrew member qualifications and currency requirements.

 

3.3              Pilot in Command (PIC):

 

3.3.1           Acting as the final authority for safely operating, servicing, and securing the aircraft he or she commands.

 

3.3.2           Operating the Department’s aircraft in accordance with FAA regulations, applicable aircraft flight manuals, and Departmental policies and procedures.

 

3.3.3           Utilizing the approved manufacturer’s checklist during pre-flight, startup, in- flight, post-flight, and if practical, in the event of an emergency.

 

3.3.4           Completing, at the beginning of each watch, a Pre-Flight Procedures as prescribed in section 4.5 of this SOP prior to pulling in service.

 

3.3.5           Responding in a timely manner and handling calls for service.  The PIC shall immediately notify the unit commander if any safety, mechanical, employee, or environmental issue prevents a timely response to calls for service.

 

3.3.6           Conducting a post flight inspection and refueling of the aircraft.  If the aircraft cannot be properly secured, the PIC shall immediately notify the unit commander.

 

3.3.7           Prior to flight, ensure that all non-aircrew passengers receive a safety briefing as stated in the applicable aircraft flight manual.

 

3.4              Tactical Flight Officer:

 

3.4.1           Assisting the PIC during all phases of aircraft operation (pre-flight, flight, and post-flight).

 

3.4.2           Completing helicopter daily activity sheets, incident reports, and daily/monthly statistical sheets.

 

3.4.3           Ensuring that all ground equipment is fueled and ready for service.

 

3.4.5           Establishing and maintaining radio contact with radio dispatch and unit(s) requesting assistance.

 

3.4.6           Navigating/directing the PIC to the scene of the requesting unit.

 

3.4.7           Employment of onboard aircraft systems, including but not limited to: Thermal Imager/Camera, spotlight, GPS moving map, police radios, and aircraft radios.

 

3.5              Maintenance Officer:

 

3.5.1           Ensuring aircraft maintenance is completed in accordance with FAA regulations, manufacturer’s specifications, and departmental policies and procedures.

 

3.5.2           Monitoring aircraft component times and ensuring components are replaced or overhauled as required.

 

3.5.3           Maintaining and updating aircraft and engine maintenance manuals to include Alert Service Bulletins, Technical Bulletins, Operational Safety Notices, Service Letters, and Information Letters.

 

3.5.4           Maintaining aircraft discrepancy logs, ensuring that problems are corrected or deferred when appropriate until the 100-hour or annual service.
 

3.5.5           Maintaining the Helicopter Unit’s Maintenance Flow Chart.

 

3.5.6           Coordinating with the Fiscal Unit for the availability of and dispersal of funds for aircraft maintenance and unit specific equipment purchases.

 

3.5.7           Ensuring ground support equipment/vehicles are serviced, in proper working condition and inspected in accordance with manufacturer’s specifications and departmental policies and procedures.

 

3.5.8           Scheduling the routine and non-routine maintenance of aircraft and ground support vehicles/equipment.

 

3.6              Safety Officer:

 

3.6.1           Notifying the unit commander of potential hazardous practices in the workplace.

 

3.6.2           Meeting with the Atlanta Federal Aviation Flight Standards District Office (FSDO) Safety Program manager on a semi-annual basis.

 

3.6.3           Coordinating with the unit Training Officer/ Field Instructor for officer training/certification on the use of the unit’s heavy equipment, refueling equipment, and fire extinguishing equipment.

 

3.6.4           Implementing and maintaining the Helicopter Unit Safety Program that includes, but is not limited to:

 

1.    Periodic inspections of the unit’s safety equipment.

 

2.    Establishing and updating a unit safety reading file.

 

3.    Conducting quarterly safety meetings.

 

4.    Establishing a unit mishap checklist.

 

5.    Establishing mishap/incident procedures for all ground equipment.

 

3.7              Unit Certified Flight Instructor (UCFI)/Training Officer:

 

3.7.1           Establishing and maintaining an Aircrew Training Program.

 

3.7.2           Making recommendations to the unit commander regarding aircrew member flight status, including, but not limited to:

 

1.    Aircrew member change of flight status from TFO to PIC.

 

2.    Aircrew member’s temporary change of flight status from PIC to TFO.

 

3.7.3           Recommendations shall be based on:

 

1.    Flight training performance

 

2.    Check rides performance

 

3.    Written test performance

 

4.    Oral test performance

 

5.    Documented observations made while flying missions

 

3.7.4           Conducting flight and ground instruction in accordance with FAA regulations, this SOP and departmental policies and procedures.

 

3.7.5           Conducting aircrew member check rides in accordance with FAA regulations, this SOP, and departmental policies and procedures.

 

3.8              Inventory Control Officer:

 

3.8.1           Listing the location of and maintaining an accurate accounting of all supplies, equipment, and aircraft parts.

 

3.9              All Pilots are responsible for:

 

1     The FARs applicable to the certificate and rating that they currently hold.

 

2.    The departmental aircraft they operate.

 

3.    The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Practical Test Standards (PTS) applicable to the certificate and rating held.

 

4.    Maintaining an individual flight logbook in accordance with FAA regulations part 61.51.

 

3.10      All employees shall:

 

1.    Understand and apply all applicable regulations (Federal and State) and departmental procedures while performing his or her duties.

 

2.    Strive to promote a cooperative and harmonious working relationship within the unit and with other departments.

 

3.    Not commit or omit acts which constitute a violation of Federal Aviation Regulations (FARs), departmental policies and Employee Work Rules.

 

4.    Perform the duties of an aircrew member, as required.

 

5.    Perform typical unit tasks, including but not limited to:

 

a.    Clean helicopters and unit areas.

 

b.    Make daily mail run and other administrative duties.

 

c.    Move helicopters utilizing ground handling wheels.

 

d.    Move/retrieve equipment stored throughout the department.

 

e.    Operate, listen to, and when necessary, respond to two or more radios.

 

4.               ACTION

 

4.1              Aircrew Member Qualifications

 

4.1.1           Prior to being assigned by the unit commander to the position of Pilot in Command (PIC), the aircrew member must meet the following requirements:

 

1.    Have in his or her possession a current Federal Aviation Commercial Airmen Certificate (appropriate for Departmental aircraft).

 

2.    Have logged a minimum of 500 flight hours as an aircrew member in an Atlanta Police Department aircraft. The requirement of 500 flight hours may be reduced by the unit commander, based upon the commander’s discretion regarding the review of applicant’s previous flight experience.

 

3.    Have successfully completed a Pilot in Command check ride with the unit’s Certified Flight Instructor/Training Officer or the unit commander’s designee.

 

4.    Have successfully completed all Tactical Flight Officer training requirements.

 

4.1.2           Prior to being assigned by the unit commander to the position of Tactical Flight Officer, the aircrew member must meet the following requirements:

 

1.    Have in his or her possession a current FAA 3rd Class Airmen Medical Certificate.

 

2.    Have successfully completed all Tactical Flight Officer training requirements.

 

4.1.3           Prior to being assigned by the unit commander to the position of Unit Flight Instructor, the aircrew member must meet the following requirements:

 

1.    Have in his or her possession a current FAA Certified Commercial and Flight Instructor Certificate for the aircraft flown by the Atlanta Police Department.

 

2.    Have logged a minimum of 1500 hours total flight time with a minimum of 1000 hours in rotary wing aircraft.

 

3.    Have logged a minimum of 300 hours in an Atlanta Police Department aircraft (Minimum of 50 hours in each make/model).

 

4.    Have successfully completed all Pilot in Command and Tactical Flight Officer training requirements.

 

5.    Be approved by the SOS commander or his/her designee, and designated as such in writing.

 

4.2              Aircrew Member Flight/Training Requirements

 

4.2.1           In order for a pilot to act as Pilot in Command in a departmental aircraft, a pilot must meet the following currency requirements in addition to those required under FA regulations part 61.56/57:

 

1.    Have logged no less than twelve hours of flight time in the preceding quarter of which six hours must have been PIC time.

 

2.    Have logged no less than one hour of night flight time in the preceding quarter.

 

3.    Have passed a check/currency ride in each model of departmental aircraft in which designated to act as PIC in the preceding twelve months.

 

4.    Completed any necessary ground instruction/refresher training as determined by the unit commander.

 

5.    Have in his or her possession a current 2nd Class Medical Certificate.

 

4.2.2           In order to act as a Tactical Flight Officer in an Atlanta Police Department aircraft the aircrew member must meet the following currency requirements in addition to FA regulations part 61.23 (a)(3):

 

1.    Have logged no less than twelve hours of flight time in the preceding quarter.

 

2.    Completed any necessary ground instruction/refresher training as determined by the unit commander.

 

4.2.3           In order for a pilot to act as the Unit Certified Flight Instructor in a departmental aircraft, a pilot must meet the following currency requirements in addition to those required under FA regulations part 61.56/57:

 

1.    Have logged no less than twelve hours of flight time in the preceding quarter, of which six hours must have been PIC time.

 

2.    Completed in the preceding twelve months a FAA approved Flight Instructor Refresher Course or passed a Certified Flight Instructor Practical Test.

 

4.3              Unit Equipment/Vehicles

 

4.3.1           Departmental Aircraft

 

4.3.2           In addition to the equipment required under FA regulations parts 91.203, 205, 209 and 215, all Atlanta Police Department aircraft shall have a working fire extinguisher, a minimum of one working police radio, and a first aid kit readily accessible to all aircrew members.

 

4.3.3           Aircraft N368PD and any future surplus military aircraft acquired by the Atlanta Police Department defined as Public Use Aircraft are exempt from the requirements of FAR part 91.203 (a).

 

4.3.4           All Department aircraft shall have, in addition to the registration markings required under FA regulations part 91, the Atlanta Police Department patch logo and the words “Atlanta Police” prominently displayed.

 

4.3.5           The Helicopter Unit operates several support vehicles: tugs and refueling trucks.  Operation of the tugs is restricted to the airfield at which the Helicopter Unit is located.  Tugs are not required to be registered.  Tugs shall be equipped and operated in accordance with the Manufacturer’s Operating Manual. In addition to the equipment required in their Manufacturer’s Operating Manual, each refueling truck shall have a fully charged fire extinguisher readily available to the operator and a current vehicle registration.

 

4.4              Single Pilot Operations

 

4.4.1           Prior approval from the unit commander, or his or her designee, is required before conducting a single pilot flight in an Atlanta Police Department aircraft.

 

4.5              Preflight Procedures

 

4.5.1           The Pilot in Command shall ensure that the following preflight actions are completed prior to each flight:

 

1.    Inspect aircraft in accordance with applicable flight manual.

 

2.    Inspect the aircraft dolly.

 

3.    Plan for a fuel reserve of 20 minutes before departing on any flight.

 

4.    Obtain a weather briefing from Flight Service;

 

a.    Flights shall not be made into any known or forecasted icing conditions.   If hazardous conditions are encountered in flight, the pilot shall land the aircraft as soon as possible.

 

b.    Flights shall not be made into any severe turbulence conditions.  If conditions are encountered in flight, the pilot shall land the aircraft as soon as possible.

 

c.    Flight visibility and cloud minimums:

 

(1)   Day-1 statute mile and 500 feet AGL (Above Ground Level)

 

(2)   Night-2 statute miles and 700 feet AGL (Above Ground Level)

 

(3)   Flight in weather conditions below the listed minimums is prohibited without prior approval of the unit commander

 

d.    Aircraft should not be started or flown when the sustained surface wind speed is in excess of 35 knots or a gust spread greater than 15 knots.

 

4.5.2           A flight plan shall be filed with Flight Service for flights outside the Hartsfield outermost Class B ring as depicted on the Atlanta Area Sectional Chart.

 

4.5.3           Flight following should be accomplished with Communications or a unit member remaining on the ground for flights within the outer most Class B ring as depicted on the Atlanta Area Sectional Chart.

 

4.5.4           A safety briefing shall be conducted prior to a flight whenever passengers other than Helicopter Unit employees are being flown in departmental aircraft.

 

4.5.5           Complete and sign Atlanta Police Helicopter Unit Preflight Checklist.

 

4.6              Calls for service

 

4.6.1           To the maximum extent possible, all calls responded to shall be flown in accordance with applicable FA regulations, procedures, the flight parameters stated in the specific aircraft flight manual, and consistent with the Helicopter Unit’s training program.

 

4.6.2           The Helicopter Unit’s mission is such that at times competing demands for service can occur.  The following is the priority list the unit shall use when responding to dispatched calls:

 

1.    Officer help calls

 

2.    Robbery in progress

 

3.    Vehicle pursuit

 

4.    Burglary in progress

 

5.    Foot pursuit

 

6.    Missing children

 

7.    Other dispatched calls

 

8.    Requests for surveillance

 

9.    Directed patrols

 

4.7              Vehicle Pursuits

 

4.7.1           Vehicle pursuits shall be adhered to as set forth in APD.SOP.3050 “Pursuit Policy”.

 

4.7.2           When the Helicopter Unit is requested to assist in a vehicle pursuit, the responding aircrew member shall immediately give an estimated time enroute (ETE).

 

4.7.3           Upon arrival, the Helicopter Unit shall:

 

1.    Advise dispatch the Helicopter Unit is overhead and shall begin calling the vehicle pursuit.

 

2.    Continue to update dispatch on the suspect’s vehicle’s direction of travel and approximate speed.

 

3.    Update dispatch on traffic and road conditions.

 

4.    Advise dispatch when the vehicle pursuit is approaching zone or city limits.

 

5.    Advise dispatch to notify the appropriate zone or jurisdiction of the vehicle pursuit.

 

6.    Advise dispatch of any additional information that may be pertinent to the vehicle pursuit, such as shots being fired, suspect’s vehicle attempting to ram other vehicles, suspect(s) bailing out of the vehicle (give description of suspect(s) and direction of travel).

 

7.    Follow vehicle pursuit to its conclusion or until cancelled by a supervisor.

 

4.8              Landings

 

Off Airport, Confined, Unapproved, and Emergency Landings

 

4.8.1           Except for emergency situations, no off airport/heliport or confined area landings shall be made without prior approval from the unit commander.  All landings shall be made in accordance with the procedures prescribed in FAA-H-8083-21.  A sworn police officer shall remain with the aircraft at all times when the aircraft is off airport property.

 

4.8.2           When a Departmental aircraft has an emergency, such as being involved in an accident or incident as defined by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) part 830, the Pilot in Command or aircrew member shall immediately notify the Communications dispatcher.  Communications shall then notify the following person(s)/agencies:

 

1.    Helicopter Unit Commander

 

2.    SOS Commander

 

3.    NTSB (when required by regulation)

 

4.    FAA (when required by regulation)

 

5.    Chief of Police

 

4.8.3           Additionally, the Pilot in Command or aircrew member on the scene shall:

 

1.    Request ambulance or fire personnel, if necessary.

 

2.    Protect and preserve the scene.

 

3.    Complete a “damage to city property” report (when required).

 

4.    Request Identification Unit services.

 

4.8.4           All pilots shall be thoroughly familiar and knowledgeable of the operating limitations and emergency procedures for the particular aircraft being flown.  Whether in flight or on the ground, in the event of an emergency the pilot on the controls shall immediately perform the corrective action set forth in the approved aircraft flight manual.  Whenever possible, the checklist shall be used to confirm that the emergency procedure(s) are followed correctly.  An Atlanta police officer shall remain with the aircraft at all times until it is moved or flown out of the location.

 

4.8.5           Whenever the aircrew of a departmental aircraft makes a forced or precautionary landing because of a mechanical or environmental situation, the Pilot in Command or aircrew member shall notify Communications and the unit commander as soon as it is possible to do so.  Whenever possible, the unit commander shall go to the scene and coordinate recovery of the aircraft.  A police officer shall remain with the aircraft at all times until it is moved or flown out of the location.

 

4.9              Static Displays

 

4.9.1           Periodically the Helicopter Unit is requested to conduct presentations, demonstrations, or school visitations.  All requests shall be coordinated through the unit commander or designee.  When these requests involve the static display of the departmental aircraft, the aircrew assigned shall employ the following procedures:

 

1.    Conduct a thorough reconnaissance of the site where the landing is to be made and make a determination whether a landing shall be made.  If not, the pilot shall advise the unit commander.

 

2.    Ensure that there is at least one sworn police officer at the landing site in constant radio contact with the landing aircraft.

 

3.    During approach and landing, the officer at the site and aircrew member shall ensure that no one approaches the aircraft until it has been completely shut down, and the area has been made safe.

 

4.    A sworn police officer shall be present at all times while civilians are in and around the aircraft.

 

5.    Before takeoff from the location, the PIC shall conduct a ground reconnaissance in addition to normal departure procedures ensuring that conditions permit a safe departure from the landing site.

 

6.    The on-site officer shall ensure that no person shall approach the landing area until the helicopter has safely departed.

 

4.10            Formation Flights

 

4.10.1         Formation flights may be conducted for special events such as funerals or other events as determined by the unit’s chain-of-command.

 

4.10.2         Formation flights shall be conducted only when authorized by the Special Operations Section (SOS) commander.

 

4.10.3         The unit commander or designee shall assign the aircrew performing the formation flight.

 

4.10.4         The minimum aircrew for formation flights is two: the Pilot in Command, whose station shall be in the right seat and a second aircrew member, preferably a rated helicopter pilot, in the left seat.

 

4.10.5         Each pilot participating in the formation flight and acting as Pilot in Command is required to have a sign off by the UCFI or designee in his or her training records verifying the pilot competent for formation flights.

 

4.10.6         If the Atlanta Police Department Helicopter Unit is the primary unit responsible for organizing the formation flight, the unit commander or the Pilot in Command/OIC shall be responsible for the conduct of the flight and shall brief all participating aircrews prior to mission execution.

 

4.10.7         The briefing shall include as a minimum:

 

1.    Current and forecasted weather

 

2.    Route of flight from departure point

 

3.    Type of formation being flown; diamond, wedge, etc.

 

4.    Location of each aircraft in the formation and their particular duties

 

5.    Radio frequency used during the flight

 

6.    Altitude and airspeeds to be flown

 

7.    Formation flight emergency procedure

 

4.11            Requests for service from outside agencies

 

4.11.1         Prior to the Helicopter Unit responding to any request for support made by an outside agency (Secret Service, FBI, ATF, etc.) approval must first be received from the SOS commander.

 

4.11.2         All calls responded to shall be flown in accordance with applicable FA regulations procedures, within the flight parameters stated in the specific aircraft flight manual, and consistent with the Helicopter Unit’s training program.

 

4.12            Medical Emergency Flights

 

4.12.1         The Helicopter Unit shall not medically airlift, with the exception of departmental employees, without prior approval from the Chief of Police. 

 

4.12.2         When circumstances are such that death or permanent disability would likely result if departmental employees are not medically airlifted, the on-scene supervisor can request support from the Helicopter Unit.  Transportation shall be conducted in accordance with applicable FA regulations, procedures, approved aircraft flight manual, and FARs-H-8083-21.

 

4.13            SWAT calls for service

 

4.13.1         SWAT requests for service and emergency calls for service (natural disaster relief/evacuation, etc.) shall, when practical, be flown in accordance with FARs-H-8083-21.  In the event the mission/mission profile is not specifically addressed in the above-mentioned manual, the Pilot in Command shall review any documents or field manuals that would offer specific guidance on how to safely conduct and complete the mission.  The Department of Defense Field Manuals is another good source of information for guidance on how to safely conduct and complete a mission other than standard flight profiles.  Under no circumstances shall the operating limitations of the aircraft be intentionally exceeded without prior approval from the unit commander.

 

4.14            Instrument Meteorological Conditions (IMC) flight:

 

4.14.1         While in flight, should an aircrew inadvertently encounter IMC, but are able to maintain visual contact with objects on the surface, they shall immediately descend (in a safe and expeditious manner) maintaining visual contact with the surface.

 

4.14.2         In the event that an aircrew inadvertently encounters IMC and loses visual contact with the surface/ground for any length of time, they shall immediately initiate a climb and execute the following procedures:

 

1.    Level the aircraft’s attitude (“wings”).

 

2.    Initially set power and adjust airspeed for maximum endurance/best rate of climb as determined in the approved aircraft flight manual.

 

3.    Turn away from any known obstacles.

 

4.    If within the airspace above the Metro Atlanta area, contact Atlanta Approach on designated frequency for additional instructions.

 

5.    If outside the Metro Atlanta area, contact the appropriate controlling agency.

 

4.15            Instrument Flight Rules (IFR) Flight

 

4.15.1         Flights under actual Instrument Flight Rules (IFR) shall only be conducted when:

 

1.    Both aircrew members hold a current instrument certificate for the type of aircraft flown.

 

2.    The aircraft being flown is FAA-certified for IFR flight.

 

3.    The unit commander or designee has given prior approval for the flight.

 

4.15.2         For Instrument Flight Rules (IFR) flight other than for training, both aircrew members must be instrument qualified and current in accordance with FAR part 61.57 and the aircraft being flown must be IFR certified.

 

4.16            Airspace Management

 

4.16.1         The Federal Aviation Administration is the governing and controlling agency for the airspace over the City of Atlanta.  To the maximum extent possible, the Helicopter Unit shall assist federal authorities in enforcement of FAR pertaining to airspace usage over the City.

 

4.17            Aero medical requirements

 

4.17.1         Flight physicals shall be paid for by the City of Atlanta and administered by a department-approved FAA flight physician.

 

4.17.2         In accordance with FA regulations part 61.53(a.)(b.), a pilot aircrew member is prohibited from performing pilot/aircrew member duties while he/she has a known medical condition that would make them unable to meet the requirements for the medical certificate necessary for the pilot operation.

 

4.17.3         Any Helicopter Unit employee experiencing any illness or injury that meets the FAA requirements for notification shall be required to contact the department’s designated physician to determine if a physical examination is necessary before returning to flight status. He or she must also notify the unit commander.   

 

4.17.4         Under FA regulations part 91.17, “No person may act or attempt to act as a aircrew member of a civil aircraft while using any drug that affects the persons faculties in any way contrary to safety.” When taking any medication that may adversely affect their ability to perform their assigned duties, the department’s designated FAA Certified physician and the unit commander must clear the employee to return to flight status.

 

4.18            Unit Training

 

4.18.1         The major objective of the Unit Training Program is to develop employees assigned to the Helicopter Unit into the safest, most technically proficient police officer/pilots and tactical flight officers. Where applicable, P.O.S.T. standards shall be employed in Helicopter Unit Training. The unit commander or designee shall be responsible for submission of lesson plans, etc. for approval by the Academy Director. 

 

4.18.2         Emergency Procedure Flight Training shall be conducted at an airfield where fire rescue support is available. All other flight training shall be conducted at locations approved by the unit commander.

 

4.18.3         All rated pilots assigned to the Helicopter Unit shall be enrolled in the FAA Pilot Proficiency Award Program, commonly referred to as the “Wings” Program.

 

4.18.4         In conjunction with the Unit Safety Officer, the Helicopter Unit Training Officer/UCFI shall conduct quarterly classroom instruction that shall be documented by the type of training given and attendance. Instruction shall be presented on aviation subject matter.

 

4.18.5         Each officer, prior to being assigned by the unit commander as a Tactical Flight Officer, shall receive training and shall demonstrate proficiency in the following areas:

 

1.    Airport Operations (Required for issuance of ATL Badge)

 

2.    Aircraft entry/egress procedures

 

3.    Aircraft refueling procedures

 

4.    Ground movement of aircraft

 

5.    Aircraft accident notification/reporting procedures

 

6.    Citywide navigation in aircraft

 

7.    Correct usage of aircraft avionics, such as Bendix and departmental radios, etc.

 

8.    Proper usage of aircraft mission equipment, such as searchlight, portable GPS, thermal imager, etc.

 

9.    Aircrew Search/Scan techniques

 

10.  Cockpit Resource Management (CRM)

 

11.  Familiarization with aircraft controls and flight systems

 

12.  Familiarization with pre/post flight procedures.

 

4.18.6         Annually, the unit commander shall coordinate with the Atlanta Police Department Academy to request Factory Pilot Recurrence Training in the make/model of aircraft being flown by the Helicopter Unit. Training shall consist of a minimum of three hours of flight and eight hours of ground instruction. Documentation shall be kept on the type of training and attendance. Certified factory employees shall give instruction.

 

4.19            Pilot Trainees

 

4.19.1         Employees assigned to the Helicopter Unit seeking pilot certification or additional ratings in aircraft shall, at the discretion of the Chief of Police, be given flight training by the UCFI, an approved FAA Flight School or a designated Flight Instructor.  All training shall be conducted in accordance with applicable FA regulations and the Practical Test Standards (PTS) set forth by the FAA for the certification/rating being sought. Training and FAA check rides for pilot certification or additional ratings may, if approved by the Chief of Police, be completed utilizing the applicable City of Atlanta Police Department aircraft.

 

4.20            Standardization

 

4.20.1         All pilots assigned to the Helicopter Unit shall be given an annual check ride by a Certified Flight Instructor in all make and models of departmental aircraft that they operate. The check ride shall exceed the requirements of FA regulations part 61.56 (Biennial Flight Review). The check ride shall consist of an oral, written and flight examination. Pilots shall have to demonstrate proficiency in the following areas:

 

1.    Preflight planning

 

2.    Weather, Go/No-Go decision-making

 

3.    Aerodynamics

 

4.    FA regulations parts 61, 67, 91

 

5.    NTSB part 830

 

6.    Federal Aviations Regulations Aeronautical Information Manual (AIM)

 

7.    Operating limits of departmental aircraft

 

8.    Emergency and safety procedures for departmental aircraft.

 

4.20.2         The UCFI, or unit commander’s designee, shall conduct a no-notice check ride at the unit commander’s discretion. Areas subject to evaluation shall be the same as identified in section 4.20.1 of this SOP.

 

4.20.3         Simulated emergencies and autorotation training shall not be performed over populated areas.  Under no circumstances shall autorotation training to ground be conducted in departmental aircraft.

 

4.21            No-Notice and Annual Check Ride Failures

 

4.21.1         The UCFI shall notify the unit commander in writing of any check ride failures.  Remedial training and re-testing shall be conducted in accordance with established departmental policies and procedures.

 

5.               DEFINITIONS

 

5.1              Aviation:  specific definitions can be found in FA regulations, part 61.1

 

5.2              Currency:  The state of being current; up-to-date on aviation training and requirements.

 

5.3              Flight Following:  The task of maintaining contact with specified aircraft for the purpose of determining en route progress and/or flight termination.

 

5.4              Pilot in Command (PIC):  A Helicopter Unit employee who is certified as a pilot and designated by the unit commander to operate a specific departmental aircraft.

 

5.5              Tactical Flight Officer (TFO):  A Helicopter Unit employee who may or may not be certified as a pilot and is designated by the unit commander to observe, navigate, and assist the pilot.

 

5.6              FARThe Federal Aviation Regulations, or FARs, are rules prescribed by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) governing all aviation activities in the United States.

 

5.7              FAAThe Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is an agency of the United States Department of Transportation with authority to regulate and oversee all aspects of civil aviation in the U.S. (National Airworthiness Authority).

 

6.               CANCELLATIONS

 

                  APD.SOP.4041 “Helicopter Unit” effective October 1, 2006

 

7.               REFERENCES

 

                  APD.SOP.3050 Pursuit Policy

 

                  Commission of Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies (CALEA) 5th Edition, Standard 41.1.3

 

                  Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Regulatory Division

 

1.    2nd and 3rd Class Airmen Medical Certificate

2.    Certified Commercial and Flight Instructor Certification

3.    FAA-H-8083-21, Rotorcraft Flying Handbook

4.    Pilot Proficiency Award Program

5.    Flight School

6.    Practical Test Standards

 

                  Federal Aviation Regulations (FAR),

 

1.    Part 61 (Certification: Pilots and Flight Instructors),

2.    Part 67 (Medical Standards and Certification)

3.    Part 91 (General Operating and Flight Rules).

 

                  National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), Codes of Federal Regulations, Chapter 8, Title 49, Part 830, “Notification and reporting of aircraft accidents or incidents…”