Applicability
| ACP | AQP |
|---|---|
| X |
Subject: Approved Check Pilot (ACP) Manual (10th Edition)
Purpose
This bulletin introduces the ACP Manual (10th Edition) and outlines some of the policy changes and certain document enhancements. It also provides information regarding the release date and where a controlled copy can be obtained.
Background
The ACP Manual (9th Edition) was released almost 10 years ago. A total of 17 ACP bulletins were subsequently issued and an increasing need developed to incorporate this information into the manual itself. Additionally, some policy changes were required in response to important suggestions (e.g., TSB recommendations) and normal program development (e.g., evolving the 4-Point Marking Scale).
Policy Changes
The following is a summary of important changes introduced in the ACP Manual (10th Edition).
1 – Maximum Number of Approved Types
On aeroplanes, a maximum of three (3) types will normally be authorized on a letter of ACP accreditation. Up to two (2) additional types may be requested, that is a maximum of five (5) types, supported by a risk assessment.
On helicopters, a graduated maximum of between three (3) and five (5) types will be authorized according to the following schedule:
- Three (3) approved types – two (2) twin-engine and 1 single-engine helicopters;
- Four (4) approved types – one (1) twin-engine & three (3) single-engine helicopters; or
- Five (5) approved types – five (5) single-engine helicopters.
This new policy is not expected to impact most ACPs. A transition plan will be discussed upon delegation renewal that takes into account any potential economic impact.
2 – New 4-Point Marking Scale - Grading Matrix
A revised 4-Point Marking Scale - Grading Matrix has been developed based on the 9th edition's Appendix J. Formal definitions of deviations and errors have been incorporated into the 4-Point Marking Scale – Grading Matrix which will improve standardized measurements of performance.
The Threat and Error Management (TEM) concept of corrective actions has been formalized into a policy on ACP discretion allowing a mark of two (2) versus a one (1) to be assigned under certain conditions.
3 – Pilot-in-Command versus Second-in-Command Performance Standards
Responding to a specific recommendation contained in a 2016 TSB accident report, the 10th edition now establishes pilot proficiency check standards that distinguish between and assess the competencies required to perform the differing operational duties and responsibilities of pilot-in-command versus second-in-command. Specifically, the assessment of three (3) twos during a pilot-in-command PPC will now result in an unsuccessful attempt.
4 – Flight Crew Jeopardy
Flight crew jeopardy policy has been refined to indicate the following: If a candidate occupies a duty position (e.g., a second-in-command occupying a pilot-in-command's duty position) during a PPC and that duty position will not be subsequently operationally assigned, that individual is not subject to jeopardy during that portion of the flight check.
5 – Performance Error Repeat
Based on the previous partial and retest policy, guidance on ACPs offering the candidate a repeat has been re-grouped with other situations where a flight test exercise may be repeated (e.g., safety concern).
6 – Training Center Evaluator / Approved Check Pilot (TCE/ ACP) Initiative
The Training Center Evaluator/Approved Check Pilot (TCE/ ACP) program takes advantage of check pilot expertise found in FAR Part 142 Training Centers. This initiative has been underway for several years and was designed to improve ACP services to Canadian operators.
7 – Initial ACP Application – Candidate Pre-Assessment
ACP candidates interested in receiving accreditation are now required to contact Transport Canada first prior to initiating training. This is for the purpose of evaluating the need, expectations and requirements as well as professional suitability.
8 – Information Relocated
Information related to PPC Scripts has been removed and will be provided in a dedicated Advisory Circular (AC) for the benefit of air operations beyond the ACP program.
ACP application and renewal forms have been removed and will be provided directly on Transport Canada's Approved Check Pilot / Advanced Qualification Programs website.
Document Enhancements
The ACP Manual (10th Edition) offers better policy equalization among the following: Aeroplane and helicopter, PPC and line checks, and simulator and airborne flight checks. Additionally, there is more consistent structure, terminology and plan language used throughout.
Release Date and Controlled Document
The ACP Manual (10th Edition) is scheduled to be released on 1 April 2017.
The ACP Manual (10th Edition) will be effective on 1 June 2017.
A controlled copy of this document will be available on Transport Canada's Approved Check Pilot / Advanced Qualification Programs website:
Contact Person
Matthew Dillon
ACP Program Coordinator
Flight Crew Training, Evaluation and Examinations (AARTFE)
613-990-1015
matthew.dillon@tc.gc.ca
Original signed by
Deborah Martin
Chief
Commercial Flight Standards (AARTF)