Air Taxi

Objective

The student will develop proficiency in planning and executing air taxi operations at towered and non-towered airports/heliports, demonstrating the knowledge, risk management, and skills required to safely air taxi a helicopter while maintaining situational awareness, adhering to clearances and limitations, and complying with commercial pilot standards per FAA-S-ACS-16, Area of Operation IV, Task C (CH.IV.C). Upon completion, the student will air taxi with precise altitude control (±10 feet), appropriate airspeed selection, proper track maintenance, and full compliance with airport markings, signs, and ATC instructions while managing H/V diagram considerations and operational hazards.

Content

Definition and Regulatory Basis

Air taxi is the operation of a helicopter at altitudes normally associated with ground movements but at airspeeds that allow greater forward velocity than hover taxi (typically 20-40 KIAS, depending on aircraft type and conditions). Unlike hover taxi conducted at or below 5 feet AGL, air taxi occurs at altitudes generally between 20-100 feet AGL, allowing the helicopter to transition out of ground effect and move more efficiently while remaining clear of obstacles.

14 CFR §91.113(g) establishes right-of-way rules for helicopters operating on the surface: “When two or more aircraft are approaching an airport for the purpose of landing, the aircraft at the lower altitude has the right-of-way.” While helicopters have operational flexibility, commercial pilots must exercise this privilege responsibly and in compliance with all ATC instructions and local procedures.

At towered airports, air taxi operations require specific ATC clearance. Controllers may issue instructions such as “Air taxi via taxiways Alpha and Bravo to Runway 17,” or “Air taxi direct to the fuel pad, remain clear of Runway 22.” The pilot must read back all runway hold-short instructions and altitude restrictions verbatim (AIM 4-3-18).

Current Airport Aeronautical References and Information Resources (K1)

Commercial pilots must demonstrate thorough preflight preparation using current aeronautical references:

Chart Supplement (formerly A/FD): Contains essential airport information including field elevation, traffic patterns, runway dimensions, lighting systems, available services, noise abatement procedures, and special helicopter operating areas. For helicopter operations, note heliport data, preferred helicopter routes, and any restrictions on helicopter operations.

Airport Diagrams: Published for airports with complex layouts, these diagrams show runways, taxiways, ramps, hot spots, construction areas, and movement/non-movement area boundaries. Airport diagrams are critical for maintaining situational awareness during air taxi operations and preventing runway incursions. Use the diagram actively during taxi—don’t rely on memory.

Notices to Air Missions (NOTAMs): Check for runway/taxiway closures, lighting outages, construction activity, temporary flight restrictions, and changes to published procedures. A closed taxiway may force rerouting; construction equipment may create new obstacle hazards along your air taxi route. FDC NOTAMs may announce temporary control tower closures, changing towered airports to non-towered operations.

ATIS/ASOS/AWOS: Provides current winds (critical for crosswind air taxi planning), altimeter setting, runway in use, and pertinent operational information. At non-towered airports, automated weather helps determine appropriate runway selection and anticipate wind correction requirements.

Think of these resources as your mission planning toolkit—each one provides a piece of the safety puzzle. The Chart Supplement tells you what exists, the airport diagram shows you where it is, NOTAMs tell you what’s changed, and weather tells you what to expect.

Air Taxi Instructions, Clearances, and Limitations (K2)

Towered Airport Operations:

ATC instructions for air taxi typically include:

• Route (specific taxiways or “direct to”)
• Altitude restrictions (“not above 100 feet”)
• Runway crossing authorizations or hold-short instructions
• Traffic advisories

Example clearance: “Helicopter 123, air taxi via Alpha, hold short of Runway 9, traffic a Cessna on two-mile final.”

Proper readback: “Air taxi via Alpha, hold short Runway 9, traffic in sight, Helicopter 123.”

Critical limitation: Never cross a runway without explicit clearance. “Hold short” means stop before the runway hold position markings—typically 125-200 feet from the runway edge. At towered airports, you must receive clearance to cross even if the runway appears unused.

Non-towered Airport Operations:

At non-towered airports, air taxi operations require vigilant self-announcement on the CTAF and continuous traffic scanning. Recommended phraseology: “Centerville traffic, Helicopter 123, air taxiing from the fuel pad to Runway 17 via the west ramp, Centerville.”

Make position reports at key points along your route. Monitor CTAF continuously for conflicting traffic, especially aircraft on final approach. Although helicopters may operate flexibly, commercial pilots must avoid creating hazards or confusion for other traffic.

Limitations applicable to all air taxi operations:

• Maintain awareness of aircraft limitations (never exceed VNE, observe lateral CG limits during turns)
• Consider H/V diagram implications (addressed in K7)
• Respect published noise abatement procedures
• Comply with special operating areas or restrictions (e.g., “helicopters avoid overflight of terminal building”)

Airport/Heliport/Helipad/Landing Area Signs, Markings, and Lighting (K3)

Commercial pilots must identify and comply with all airport visual guidance:

Mandatory Instruction Signs (red background, white text): Indicate runway holding positions, ILS critical areas, or no-entry areas. These are regulatory—compliance is mandatory. Runway holding position signs display the runway number(s) (e.g., “15-33”). Never cross these without clearance at towered airports or without ensuring the runway is clear at non-towered airports.

Location Signs (black background, yellow text): Identify taxiway or runway locations (e.g., “A” for Taxiway Alpha). Use these to confirm your position during air taxi.

Direction/Destination Signs (yellow background, black text): Provide directional guidance to runways, terminals, or other airport areas. They show where a taxiway leads (e.g., an arrow pointing right with “27→”).

Runway Markings: White markings on dark pavement. Threshold markings, centerline stripes, and edge stripes clearly define runway boundaries. Commercial pilots must never allow any part of the helicopter to cross runway markings without clearance or confirmation that the runway is clear and you’ve announced your intentions.

Taxiway Markings: Yellow centerlines (solid or dashed) guide surface movement. Yellow edge lines define taxiway boundaries. Runway holding position markings consist of four yellow lines (two solid, two dashed) across the taxiway, accompanied by a red-background sign. The solid lines face the runway—hold short on the side with solid lines.

Enhanced Taxiway Centerline Markings: Yellow centerline with black border indicates an upcoming runway holding position—increases awareness as you approach critical areas.

Heliport/Helipad Markings: White “H” in a circle, often with perimeter lights. Touchdown and positioning markings may be present. Some heliports have directional markings indicating preferred approach/departure paths.

Lighting Systems:

• Runway edge lights: White lights (some runways have yellow lights on the last 2,000 feet or half the runway, whichever is less, to indicate caution zone)
• Taxiway edge lights: Blue lights define taxiway edges
• Runway guard lights: Flashing yellow lights at runway/taxiway intersections—warn of approaching runway holding position
• Clearance bar lights: Three in-pavement yellow lights at holding positions
• Stop bar lights: Red lights across taxiways at runway intersections (used with ASDE-X surveillance systems)—never cross an illuminated stop bar

At night or reduced visibility, lighting becomes your primary reference. Blue taxiway lights tell you where you can safely air taxi; crossing from blue lights to white/yellow lights means you’re approaching or entering a runway.

Visual Indicators for Wind (K4)

Accurate wind assessment is critical for air taxi operations—crosswinds affect tail rotor effectiveness, tracking accuracy, and fuel consumption.

Wind Indicators:

• Windsock: Most reliable indicator. Large windsocks (8’ x 3’) fully extended indicate approximately 15 knots; smaller segmented socks show wind in 3-knot increments per segment. Direction shown is where the wind is from—the sock points downwind.
• Tetrahedron: Large triangular structure, points into the wind, indicates favored runway direction at non-towered airports
• Wind Tee: T-shaped indicator, crossbar points into wind
• Tower-reported winds: Magnetic direction and speed; compare to observed surface indicators for consistency
• Surface observations: Water ripples, smoke, flag movement, dust patterns, vegetation movement all provide wind clues

During air taxi, continually reassess wind. You may air taxi into a headwind initially but encounter crosswinds after turning. Strong crosswinds (especially from the left in American helicopters) create tail rotor demand that increases power requirements and may lead to loss of tail rotor effectiveness (LTE) if winds exceed aircraft limitations or if you air taxi too slowly.

Analogy: Think of wind assessment like checking mirrors while driving—you do it continuously, not just once at the start. Wind changes as you move around the airport, especially near hangars and buildings that create mechanical turbulence or wind shadows.

Aircraft Lighting (K5)

Proper use of helicopter lighting enhances safety and conspicuity during air taxi:

Anti-collision Lights (Rotating Beacon/Strobe): Required when engine(s) running per most aircraft manuals and strongly recommended by 14 CFR §91.209. Makes your helicopter conspicuous to other traffic. At night or reduced visibility, anti-collision lights are required unless the pilot determines they create a hazard (e.g., excessive glare in clouds).

Position/Navigation Lights: Required for night operations (14 CFR §91.209)—red (left), green (right), white (aft). Position lights help other pilots determine your direction of movement. Required from sunset to sunrise.

Landing/Searchlight: Illuminates terrain during night air taxi, helps identify obstacles, taxiway markings, and other aircraft. Use judiciously—avoid shining directly at other aircraft or the tower, which can cause temporary blindness. Some pilots use landing lights during day air taxi for increased conspicuity.

Taxi Light: If equipped, provides forward illumination optimized for low-speed maneuvering.

Best Practice for Air Taxi (Day): Anti-collision lights ON, position lights AS REQUIRED (consider using for conspicuity), landing light AS REQUIRED for conspicuity or when crossing active runways.

Best Practice for Air Taxi (Night): All external lights ON—anti-collision, position, landing/taxi light. Adjust cockpit lighting to maintain night vision while ensuring instrument readability.

Procedures for Pilot Activities During Taxiing and Safe Air Taxi Operations (K6)

Pilot Activities During Air Taxi:

The sterile cockpit concept (FAA InFO 13010) applies during air taxi operations. Commercial pilots must minimize non-essential activities and conversations during surface movement:

• Focus outside: Maintain 80-90% visual attention outside the cockpit, scanning for traffic, obstacles, runway incursions, and navigation references
• Crosscheck instruments: Brief interior glances to verify altitude, engine parameters, and rotor RPM
• Manage distractions: Delay non-critical tasks (frequencies programmed, passenger briefings completed before air taxi)
• Use checklists systematically: Complete before-taxi and cruise checklists at appropriate times without rushing

Safe Air Taxi Procedures—Towered Airports:

1. Obtain ATIS/clearance before calling ground control
2. Contact ground control: “Centerville Ground, Helicopter 123, east ramp with information Bravo, request air taxi to Runway 17”
3. Copy clearance accurately, write down complex instructions, read back all runway crossing/hold-short instructions
4. Perform before-taxi checks: Ensure collective friction adjusted appropriately, flight controls free and correct, instruments checked, transponder set as required
5. Announce ready to taxi if not included in initial call
6. Execute air taxi: Establish appropriate altitude (typically 25-50 feet AGL), select airspeed appropriate for conditions (20-35 KIAS typical), maintain track along taxiway centerlines or cleared route
7. STOP before all runway hold-short lines unless cleared to cross—use “red over white” technique (mandatory red signs ahead of permissive yellow signs means stop)
8. Request/confirm runway crossing clearances: “Helicopter 123, request to cross Runway 9.” After receiving clearance: “Cleared to cross Runway 9, Helicopter 123”
9. Cross runways expeditiously but safely—ensure adequate obstacle clearance, avoid high/fast approaches that might startle tower or other traffic
10. Monitor appropriate frequency, switch to tower when instructed
11. Maintain situational awareness using airport diagram throughout

Safe Air Taxi Procedures—Non-towered Airports:

1. Obtain weather via ASOS/AWOS/CTAF reports
2. Determine active runway from winds and CTAF traffic reports
3. Announce intentions clearly: “Centerville traffic, Helicopter 123, air taxiing from transient parking to Runway 17, west side, Centerville”
4. Listen continuously for other traffic, especially aircraft on approach or departure
5. Self-announce at key positions: “Centerville traffic, Helicopter 123, crossing Runway 9 midfield, Centerville” (after visually clearing the runway both directions)
6. Maintain standard flow patterns unless helicopter operations area exists
7. Be predictable—avoid sudden altitude or direction changes that might confuse other traffic
8. Give way to aircraft on final approach—even though helicopters have operational flexibility, commercial pilots must exercise courtesy and safety judgment

Overflying Runways (K6c):

Overflying runways during air taxi requires special consideration:

• At towered airports: Requires explicit ATC clearance, typically including altitude restriction (“Helicopter 123, cleared to cross Runway 22 at midfield, not above 100 feet”)
• At non-towered airports: Requires extreme vigilance. Visually clear the runway in both directions, check for traffic on base and final, announce your crossing, and execute expeditiously at a safe altitude that provides obstacle clearance but remains clear of normal fixed-wing traffic pattern altitudes (typically 50-100 feet AGL for the crossing)

Never overfly a runway without being certain it’s clear or without clearance. Crossing a runway is one of the highest-risk operations at any airport. Many runway incursions and near-collisions involve helicopters crossing runways.

When crossing runways at a 90-degree angle at an altitude that allows a safe landing in case of power failure, you minimize risk. Avoid hovering or slow air taxi directly over runways—if you must cross, cross decisively.

Height/Velocity (H/V) Considerations (K7)

The Height/Velocity diagram (found in the RFM limitations section) depicts combinations of airspeed and altitude from which a safe landing may not be possible following an engine failure. Commercial pilots must thoroughly understand H/V implications during air taxi:

H/V Diagram Components:

• Avoid area (shaded region): Combinations of height and velocity where insufficient energy exists to enter autorotation, arrest descent rate, and land within normal landing distance
• Lower avoid area: Typically from ground level to 30-100 feet AGL at low airspeeds (below approximately 30 KIAS). In this region, you’re too high to land immediately but too low/slow to develop autorotative rotor RPM and translational lift
• Upper avoid area: High altitude, low airspeed combinations where you cannot accelerate to achieve translational lift before ground contact

Air Taxi H/V Implications:

During typical air taxi operations (20-40 KIAS, 25-75 feet AGL), you operate within or near the lower avoid area of the H/V diagram. This is an accepted operational risk when air taxi is necessary, but commercial pilots must minimize exposure:

1. Plan efficient routes: Minimize time in H/V avoid areas by using direct routes when cleared/safe
2. Select favorable altitude/airspeed combinations: When able, air taxi at the airspeed/altitude combination closest to the edge of the avoid area (e.g., 25 feet at 40 KIAS might be better than 50 feet at 20 KIAS, depending on your aircraft)
3. Maintain awareness of forced landing areas: Continuously assess where you would land if power failed—open ramp areas, grass, taxiways
4. Avoid prolonged air taxi in confined areas: If air taxiing through hangars or congested ramp areas, minimize time exposure
5. Consider hover taxi alternative: If distance is short and winds permit, hover taxi (avoiding H/V) may be safer than air taxi through the avoid area
6. Never hover or air taxi over people or obstacles without sufficient altitude for emergency landing

Critical concept: Operating in the H/V avoid area is not illegal or prohibited—it’s unavoidable during normal helicopter operations including takeoff, approach, hover, and air taxi. The key is minimizing time in the avoid area and making risk-managed decisions. At commercial standards, you must articulate why you chose a particular altitude/airspeed combination and demonstrate awareness of emergency landing options.

Example: “I selected 40 feet AGL and 35 knots because it positions us near the edge of the H/V avoid area for this aircraft, provides clearance over the parked helicopters, and gives us the open ramp area to the left if we lost power.”

Risk Management (Addressing R1-R6)

Distractions, Task Prioritization, Loss of Situational Awareness, or Disorientation (R1):

Air taxi operations involve high workload: navigation, traffic scanning, altitude control, airspeed management, radio communications, and clearance interpretation occur simultaneously. Distractions lead to runway incursions, altitude deviations, and clearance violations.

Risk management:

• Implement sterile cockpit procedures—delay non-essential communication
• Prioritize: Aviate (control helicopter), Navigate (follow cleared route), Communicate (acknowledge instructions)
• Use airport diagram actively—mark your position and cleared route
• If disoriented, STOP safely (clear of runways/taxiways if possible), contact ATC for progressive taxi instructions
• Brief complex taxi routes before engine start
• Write down clearances, especially multi-step routes

Reduced Visibility or Night Taxi Operations (R2):

Reduced visibility (rain, fog, darkness) degrades obstacle detection, traffic detection, and navigation accuracy.

Risk management:

• Use all available lighting—landing lights, taxi lights, ensure airport lighting is adequate
• Request progressive taxi instructions from ATC if unfamiliar or disoriented
• Reduce airspeed to allow more reaction time
• Increase altitude slightly (if operationally feasible and cleared) to improve obstacle clearance margins
• Focus on lighted taxiway guidance (blue edge lights)
• Consider hover taxi if visibility severely restricts safe air taxi
• At non-towered airports in reduced visibility, consider delaying departure or requesting another pilot’s assistance as ground observer

Runway Incursion (R3):

Runway incursions are the unauthorized entry onto a runway and represent a critical safety risk. At commercial pilot level, runway incursion prevention is paramount—your certificate privileges include carrying passengers and conducting aerial work where safety culture must be exemplary.

Risk management:

• Never cross a runway without explicit clearance (towered) or positive verification that it’s clear and announcing your crossing (non-towered)
• Read back all hold-short instructions verbatim
• Stop short of all runway hold-short markings and visually confirm the runway is ahead
• Use the “red over white” mnemonic—if you see a red mandatory sign, STOP and verify clearance
• Maintain disciplined radio communication—acknowledge all instructions
• If you receive a clearance you don’t understand, ask for clarification
• At night, remember: blue lights = taxiway (safe), white/yellow lights = runway (need clearance)
• Never rely on memory for complex taxi routes—use the airport diagram
• If you cross a hold-short line without clearance, immediately notify ATC: “Helicopter 123, we’ve crossed Runway 9 at Bravo”

Main Rotor, Tail Rotor, and Tail Strike Hazards (R4):

During air taxi, main rotor clearance, tail rotor clearance, and tail boom positioning require constant attention. Helicopters have large rotor discs and protruding tail booms that can strike obstacles, other aircraft, buildings, or ground personnel.

Risk management:

• Main rotor clearance: Maintain awareness of main rotor diameter (look up and out to check clearance from hangars, light poles, parked aircraft, ground personnel). Most helicopters have 30-50 foot rotor diameters—maintain at least 10 feet clearance
• Tail rotor clearance: The tail rotor is nearly invisible and deadly. During turns while air taxiing, the tail boom sweeps a wide arc. Ensure adequate clearance before initiating turns. Announce helicopter movements at ramps: “Helicopter 123, turning right on the ramp”
• Tail strike hazards: Excessive nose-up or nose-down attitudes, especially during crosswind air taxi corrections or abrupt power changes, can cause tail boom to strike the ground. Maintain level attitude, avoid over-controlling
• Dynamic rollover prevention: During air taxi turns, especially at low altitude with crosswinds, avoid aggressive control inputs that could initiate dynamic rollover
• Ground personnel awareness: Brief passengers/ground crew never to approach helicopter without pilot signal, especially from the rear

H/V Diagram Performance in Case of Powerplant Failure (R5):

This risk is integral to air taxi operations (addressed thoroughly in K7). Additional risk management:

Risk management:

• Maintain rotor RPM in green arc continuously—do not allow RPM to decay, as recovery from low RPM autorotation entry is extremely difficult
• Brief emergency procedures before air taxi: “If we lose power during air taxi, I will immediately lower collective, apply aft cyclic to arrest forward speed, and aim for [specific clear area]”
• Select altitudes and airspeeds that provide best chance of safe landing given aircraft’s H/V diagram
• If air taxiing near people, obstacles, or congested areas, consider accepting slightly higher H/V exposure to gain clearance rather than operating low over obstacles
• Practice autorotations from H/V avoid area in training so you understand actual performance capabilities and limitations

Confirmation or Expectation Bias as Related to Taxi Instructions (R6):

Confirmation bias (hearing what you expect to hear rather than what was said) leads to clearance deviations and runway incursions. Example: Expecting “Cleared to cross Runway 22” but ATC actually said “Hold short of Runway 22.”

Risk management:

• Write down complex taxi clearances
• Read back all clearances, especially hold-short instructions
• If ATC corrects your readback, acknowledge: “Correction, hold short Runway 22, Helicopter 123”
• Do not anticipate clearances—wait for actual instruction before acting
• Cross-check clearances against airport diagram
• If something “doesn’t sound right,” query ATC: “Confirm Helicopter 123 is cleared to cross Runway 22?”
• Avoid rushing—take time to process instructions correctly
• Be especially vigilant when tired, stressed, or operating at unfamiliar airports

Schedule

Note: Flight time may be extended if training at multiple airports (towered and non-towered) or if student requires additional practice to achieve standards.

Equipment

Required Reference Materials

• FAA-S-ACS-16, Commercial Pilot Helicopter Airman Certification Standards (current edition)
• FAA-H-8083-21B, Helicopter Flying Handbook
• FAA-H-8083-25, Pilot’s Handbook of Aeronautical Knowledge (Chapter 14: Airport Operations)
• 14 CFR Part 91, General Operating and Flight Rules (§91.113, §91.129, §91.209)
• AIM (Aeronautical Information Manual), Chapter 2 (Airport Signs/Markings), Chapter 4 (Air Traffic Control)
• Helicopter Rotorcraft Flight Manual (RFM) for training aircraft (H/V diagram, limitations, normal procedures)
• Chart Supplement (formerly A/FD) for training airport(s)
• Current NOTAMs for training airport(s)
• Airport diagram(s) for training airport(s) (if published)

Training Materials

• Whiteboard/markers or tablet for diagram sketching
• Printed airport diagram(s) with highlighters for route marking
• Sample ATC clearances (written examples for discussion)
• Photos/illustrations of airport signs, markings, runway guard lights
• H/V diagram enlarged/laminated for training aircraft type
• Knee board or clipboard for student to copy clearances
• Aviation headset with functioning microphone
• Sectional chart showing training area airports

Visual Aids

• Photographs of runway incursion scenarios (debrief, discussion)
• Video clips (if available) showing proper/improper air taxi technique
• 3D model or diagram showing helicopter clearance dimensions (main rotor diameter, tail rotor clearance)
• Diagram showing enhanced taxiway centerline markings and runway hold position markings
• Crosswind air taxi diagram showing wind correction techniques

Aircraft Equipment

• Airworthy helicopter with current weight & balance, properly configured
• All required aircraft documents (airworthiness certificate, registration, operating limitations, weight & balance)
• Operational radios (COM1/COM2)
• Operational transponder
• Functioning anti-collision lights, position lights, landing/taxi lights
• Current RFM/POH aboard aircraft
• Fire extinguisher, first aid kit
• Appropriate fuel for planned flight duration plus reserves

Instructor Actions

1. Conduct ground briefing on aeronautical references and airport information: Show the student how to use Chart Supplement to find runway dimensions, pattern altitude, CTAF/tower frequencies, heliport locations, and special helicopter procedures. Demonstrate how to interpret airport diagrams, identifying runway designations, taxiway labels, ramp areas, and hot spots. Review the current NOTAMs for the training airport together, discussing how to identify relevant NOTAMs (runway closures, lighting outages) versus non-relevant items. Emphasize this is standard preflight planning for every commercial flight.

2. Review air taxi clearance procedures and phraseology: Present sample ATC clearances typical for the training airport. Explain proper readback procedures, emphasizing verbatim readback of runway hold-short instructions. Demonstrate writing down complex taxi clearances to avoid relying on memory. Explain the difference between “hold short” (stop before runway), “cross” (proceed across runway when safe), and “taxi to” (reach specified location). Discuss non-towered self-announce procedures and recommended phraseology for air taxi operations on CTAF.

3. Brief airport signs, markings, and lighting systems: Using photographs, diagrams, or actual observation (if conducting ground briefing at airport), point out and explain mandatory instruction signs (red background, white text), location signs (black background, yellow text), and direction/destination signs (yellow background, black text). Show runway holding position markings (four yellow lines, two solid on runway side), enhanced taxiway centerlines, and runway threshold markings. Explain lighting: runway edge lights (white/yellow), taxiway edge lights (blue), runway guard lights (flashing yellow), and stop bar lights (red). Emphasize that at night, if you transition from blue lights to white lights, you’re approaching a runway and must verify clearance.

4. Demonstrate wind assessment techniques: Walk outside (if possible) or use current ATIS/AWOS information to assess wind. Show how to read the windsock: fully extended indicates approximately 15 knots, direction is from where the wide end points. Explain how to observe tetrahedrons, wind tees, and environmental indicators (flags, smoke). Discuss how winds change around buildings and hangars, creating mechanical turbulence and wind shadows that affect tail rotor effectiveness during air taxi. Emphasize continuous wind reassessment as you move around the airport.

5. Explain aircraft lighting configuration for air taxi operations: Using the aircraft or RFM, show the student where each lighting control is located (anti-collision switch, position light switch, landing light switch). Brief appropriate lighting configuration: anti-collision lights ON whenever engine running (FAA recommendation and most aircraft SOP), position lights ON for night operations and consider ON during day for conspicuity, landing light ON for night operations and crossing active runways. Explain that some pilots use landing lights during all air taxi for conspicuity, but avoid shining lights at tower or other aircraft.

6. Discuss pilot activities during air taxi and sterile cockpit concept: Explain that during air taxi, the pilot must maintain 80-90% visual attention outside, with brief instrument crosschecks (altitude, rotor RPM, engine instruments). Emphasize sterile cockpit—no non-essential conversation or tasks while moving. Demonstrate proper scan pattern: forward for clearance/traffic, instruments for parameters, left/right for clearance and navigation references, airport diagram for position confirmation. Explain that as a commercial pilot, the student is establishing professional habits that will carry through passenger-carrying and aerial work operations.

7. Brief safe air taxi procedures at towered airports: Outline the step-by-step process: obtain ATIS, contact ground control with position and request, copy clearance (write it down), read back hold-short instructions verbatim, complete before-taxi checks, perform air taxi at appropriate altitude/airspeed, STOP before hold-short lines, request/confirm runway crossing clearances, maintain situational awareness using airport diagram, switch to tower when instructed. Emphasize that runway crossings are high-risk events requiring explicit clearance and decisive execution.

8. Brief safe air taxi procedures at non-towered airports: Explain the student will self-announce position and intentions on CTAF, monitor continuously for traffic, visually clear runways before crossing, and give way to traffic on final approach. Emphasize that even though helicopters have operational flexibility, commercial pilots must be predictable and courteous. Demonstrate sample CTAF calls: “Centerville traffic, Helicopter 123, air taxiing from the fuel pad to Runway 17 west side, Centerville.” Discuss the need to clear runways visually in both directions before crossing at non-towered airports.

9. Explain Height/Velocity diagram considerations thoroughly: Display the H/V diagram for the training aircraft. Point out the avoid areas (shaded regions) and explain why these altitude/airspeed combinations are dangerous: insufficient energy to enter autorotation and arrest descent. Show where typical air taxi operations (25-75 feet AGL, 20-40 KIAS) fall on the diagram—often within or near the lower avoid area. Explain this is accepted operational risk but must be minimized by: selecting efficient routes, choosing favorable altitude/airspeed combinations near the edge of the avoid area, maintaining rotor RPM in the green arc, and continuously assessing forced landing areas. Emphasize that operating in the H/V avoid area is not prohibited but must be risk-managed professionally.

10. Address all risk management elements systematically: Discuss distractions and task prioritization—explain the “aviate, navigate, communicate” hierarchy. Explain reduced visibility considerations (slower airspeeds, increased lighting, progressive taxi requests). Emphasize runway incursion prevention: never cross a runway without clearance (towered) or after visually clearing both directions and announcing (non-towered). Discuss main rotor and tail rotor clearance awareness—demonstrate sweeping the tail boom during turns, maintaining awareness of rotor diameter (look up and out). Brief H/V diagram powerplant failure risk (covered in detail in Action 9). Explain confirmation/expectation bias: write down clearances, read back verbatim, cross-check against airport diagram, do not anticipate clearances before they are issued.

11. Conduct pre-flight briefing at aircraft: Review the specific training plan: you will demonstrate first, then the student will practice. Brief the specific airport environment (taxiway layout, active runway, expected clearance, traffic pattern in use). Review emergency procedures: “If we experience an engine failure during air taxi, I will immediately lower collective, adjust cyclic to control touchdown point, and aim for [specific area]—you call ‘emergency’ and ensure master switch off after touchdown.” Brief that you will take controls if safety requires and explain the verbal “I have the controls” exchange.

12. Demonstrate ground control contact and clearance procedures (flight segment): Key the microphone and contact ground control: “Centerville Ground, Helicopter 123, [location] with information [ATIS code], request air taxi to Runway 17.” Listen to ATC response, write down the clearance, and read back: “Air taxi to Runway 17 via Alpha, Bravo, hold short of Runway 9 at Charlie, Helicopter 123.” Point out to the student how you wrote the clearance and read back the hold-short instruction verbatim. Mark the route on the airport diagram with a highlighter.

13. Demonstrate before-taxi checks: Systematically complete the before-taxi or “taxi” checklist for the training aircraft. Explain each item as you check it: flight controls free and correct, collective friction adjusted, instruments cross-checked, radios set, transponder set as required. If a “cruise” checklist exists for the training aircraft, complete it at this time. Explain you’re setting up the helicopter for stable air taxi before moving.

14. Demonstrate air taxi initiation: Smoothly increase collective to establish a light skid weight (or slight positive hover if on skids). Add slight aft cyclic to establish approximately 5-degree nose-up attitude. Smoothly apply forward cyclic while simultaneously increasing collective to establish a climb out of ground effect. Narrate: “I’m establishing an altitude of 40 feet AGL while accelerating to 30 knots, which positions us near the edge of the H/V avoid area and provides obstacle clearance over those parked aircraft.” Verbalize scanning: “Checking forward clearance, altitude coming up through 30 feet, rotor RPM in the green, airspeed 15 knots increasing.”

15. Demonstrate altitude and airspeed control during air taxi: Maintain a constant altitude (e.g., 40 feet AGL) within ±5 feet, and a constant airspeed (e.g., 30 knots) while air taxiing along the cleared route. Narrate: “I’m referencing that hangar roofline and the far treeline to judge altitude. Inside crosscheck shows 40 feet on the radar altimeter. Airspeed is 30 knots. Power requirement is approximately 18 inches of manifold pressure [or appropriate power instrument], and rotor RPM is in the middle of the green arc.” Demonstrate smooth corrections for minor altitude or airspeed deviations.

16. Demonstrate track maintenance and wind correction: Air taxi along a taxiway centerline (or cleared path) with crosswind present. Show the student how you reference the centerline to maintain track: “I’m keeping the yellow taxiway centerline centered between the skids [or aligned with a reference point on the fuselage]. I have a left crosswind, so I’m holding slight right cyclic to prevent drift.” Demonstrate maintaining desired groundspeed with headwind or tailwind by adjusting cyclic position. Explain you avoid low airspeeds in crosswinds to prevent tail rotor authority issues.

17. Demonstrate holding short of a runway: As you approach a runway hold-short line, reduce airspeed and altitude gradually. Narrate: “Approaching the Runway 9 hold-short marking. I’m reducing speed to 10 knots and descending to 20 feet to establish a stable position short of the runway.” Stop the helicopter in a stabilized hover or low air taxi 50-100 feet prior to the hold-short marking. Point out the red sign (“9-27”) and the four yellow lines on the taxiway. Explain: “We are holding short. I will not cross those yellow lines without clearance from ground control. Visually, I can see the runway is ahead of us. I’m monitoring ground frequency and waiting for crossing clearance.”

18. Demonstrate requesting and acknowledging runway crossing clearance: Key the microphone: “Centerville Ground, Helicopter 123, request cross Runway 9 at Charlie.” After receiving clearance (“Helicopter 123, cross Runway 9 at Charlie”), read back: “Cross Runway 9 at Charlie, Helicopter 123.” Point out to the student that you read back the clearance and are now visually clearing the runway in both directions even though ATC cleared you (safety backup). Explain that at a non-towered airport, you would self-announce: “Centerville traffic, Helicopter 123, crossing Runway 9 at midfield, Centerville.”

19. Demonstrate crossing a runway: Air taxi across the runway at 90 degrees, maintaining 30-40 feet AGL and 25-30 knots. Narrate: “I’m crossing at an altitude and airspeed that provide a safe landing area on the runway if we lost power, and I’m crossing expeditiously without rushing—smooth, professional. Runway is clear ahead, clear behind, we’re crossing.” After fully crossing the runway, continue air taxi on the far side and resume altitude/airspeed appropriate for the area.

20. Demonstrate turns during air taxi: Perform both shallow and medium-banked turns while maintaining altitude ±5 feet. Narrate: “To turn left onto Taxiway Bravo, I’ll use coordinated cyclic and pedal inputs. I’m adding left cyclic to establish approximately 15 degrees of bank, left pedal to coordinate, and slightly increasing collective to maintain altitude. Throughout the turn, I’m checking tail rotor clearance from that light pole and maintaining visual scan for traffic.” Demonstrate rollout smoothly on the new heading, aligned with the taxiway centerline.

21. Demonstrate situational awareness and airport diagram use: Throughout the demonstration, periodically reference the airport diagram. Narrate: “According to the diagram, we’re currently on Taxiway Alpha approaching Charlie. Next, we’ll turn right onto Bravo, which leads to Runway 17. I’m confirming the location signs match the diagram—there’s the ‘A’ sign confirming we’re on Alpha.” Show the student how you mark your position mentally and cross-check with visual signs/landmarks.

22. Demonstrate power management and rotor RPM control: Throughout the air taxi, maintain rotor RPM in the center of the green arc. Explain power changes during acceleration, turns, climbs, and descents. Narrate: “As I reduce airspeed approaching this hold-short, I’m reducing collective to avoid ballooning. Rotor RPM is stable in the green arc—if I see RPM decreasing, I’ll lower collective immediately or increase throttle if we have a correlator. Smooth power management prevents over-torquing and maintains energy available for autorotation if needed.”

23. Demonstrate communication with tower and frequency changes: When instructed by ground control, switch to tower frequency. Demonstrate: “Helicopter 123, switching to tower.” Change frequency and check in: “Centerville Tower, Helicopter 123, holding short Runway 17 at Bravo.” After receiving takeoff clearance or further taxi instructions, read back appropriately. Explain that frequency changes during air taxi should be accomplished during straight-and-level flight segments, not during turns or runway crossings.

24. Demonstrate emergency procedures (verbally, not actual): While air taxiing at a safe altitude over a clear area, verbally brief the emergency procedure: “If we lost engine power right now at 40 feet and 30 knots, I would immediately lower collective fully, apply aft cyclic to arrest forward speed, and flare to cushion the landing on that open ramp area ahead. The aircraft would touch down within approximately 100 feet. This is why I continuously assess forced landing areas and maintain rotor RPM in the green arc.” Explain you will practice actual engine-off air taxi terminations during autorotation training, but situational awareness of emergency options is constant during air taxi.

25. Coach the student through initial air taxi attempts: Have the student perform the same sequence you demonstrated. Provide verbal coaching: “Collective up to get light on the skids, slight aft cyclic, now forward cyclic and add collective to climb to 40 feet… good, watch your altitude, it’s coming up through 50 feet, lower collective slightly… that’s better, 40 feet, now hold it there.” Provide immediate, specific feedback: “Good airspeed at 30 knots. Your track is drifting left—correct with slight right cyclic. Better.” Allow minor deviations but intervene verbally before tolerances are exceeded.

26. Provide progressive feedback on altitude control: If the student has difficulty maintaining altitude, diagnose the issue. Common problems: over-controlling (explain: “Make small collective changes, then wait for the aircraft to respond”), incorrect outside references (explain: “Pick a reference at helicopter level on the horizon—use that hangar roofline—hold that reference steady in your windscreen”), or excessive instrument fixation (explain: “Quick glance at the altimeter, then eyes outside—you’re spending too much time inside”). Demonstrate the correct technique again if needed, then have the student retry.

27. Provide progressive feedback on airspeed and track control: If the student has difficulty maintaining airspeed, explain: “Reference groundspeed over the surface. If objects are passing underneath too quickly, you’re too fast—reduce cyclic slightly. If you’re crawling, add forward cyclic.” For track control, explain: “Align the taxiway centerline with a reference point on the nose or chin bubble. Small cyclic corrections keep you on centerline—anticipate wind drift.” Demonstrate proper wind correction technique: crabbing into the wind to maintain track.

28. Supervise hold-short procedures and runway crossings: As the student approaches a hold-short line, prompt: “You’re approaching the Runway 9 hold-short marking. Start slowing and descending to stop short of the line.” Ensure the student stops prior to the hold-short marking. Ask: “Where is the hold-short marking? Are you clear of it? What would you do now at a towered airport? At a non-towered airport?” Verify the student understands they need clearance (towered) or visual clearance and self-announce (non-towered) before crossing. Have the student practice requesting clearance and reading back.

29. Monitor and correct clearance readback and communication: Listen to the student’s radio communications. If a readback is incomplete or incorrect, intervene: “You need to read back the hold-short instruction. Try again: ‘[Readback the clearance correctly].’ ATC expects verbatim readback of hold-short instructions—this prevents runway incursions.” If the student fails to write down a complex clearance, prompt: “Write that down before you read it back. You don’t want to rely on memory.” Emphasize professional radio discipline: clear, concise, correct phraseology.

30. Reinforce risk management throughout the flight: Point out real-time risk management opportunities. Examples: “You’re air taxiing close to that parked helicopter—let’s add 10 feet of altitude for main rotor clearance.” “Notice we’re approaching a ramp area with people walking—let’s slow down and increase our scan for personnel.” “There’s a crosswind from the left—what’s your concern? Right, tail rotor effectiveness. Maintain at least 30 knots to keep airflow over the tail.” Make risk management a continuous conversation, not a checklist item.

31. Debrief after the flight: Review the student’s performance against ACS standards. Discuss specific strengths: “Your altitude control was excellent after the first five minutes—you maintained within ±5 feet consistently.” Discuss areas for improvement: “Your runway crossing clearance readback missed the taxiway identifier—always include the full clearance in your readback.” Review any risk management issues: “Remember when you started to cross that hold-short line without clearance? That’s exactly how runway incursions happen. Let’s discuss how to prevent that.” Ask the student to self-assess: “What did you feel went well? What do you want to work on next time?”

32. Assign post-flight study: Assign the student to review AIM Chapter 2 (airport signs, markings, lighting), study the airport diagram for another airport in the local area, and prepare three sample ATC clearances with proper readbacks. Ask the student to identify two airports (one towered, one non-towered) and brief how they would conduct an air taxi at each facility, including expected routes, clearances, and risk management considerations. Have the student review the H/V diagram for the training aircraft and prepare to explain where typical air taxi operations fall on the diagram and why.

Student Actions

1. Participate actively in the ground briefing: Ask questions about airport references, clearance procedures, signs/markings, lighting, wind indicators, H/V diagrams, and risk management. Take notes on key concepts, especially specific performance tolerances (altitude ±10 feet, ACS commercial standards) and critical risk management items (runway incursion prevention, H/V diagram considerations).

2. Review aeronautical references for the training airport: Using the Chart Supplement, identify runway dimensions, pattern altitude, frequencies (CTAF, ground, tower, ATIS), and any helicopter-specific procedures. Review the airport diagram (if published) and identify taxiways, runways, ramps, and hold-short locations. Check NOTAMs for any runway/taxiway closures or lighting outages. Demonstrate to the instructor that you have completed thorough preflight planning.

3. Practice clearance readbacks: Using sample clearances provided by the instructor, practice reading back taxi clearances with correct phraseology, including verbatim readback of hold-short instructions. Practice writing down complex clearances before reading them back. Demonstrate you can identify the key elements: route, hold-short instructions, altitude restrictions.

4. Identify airport signs, markings, and lighting: During ground briefing or ramp walk (if conducted), point out mandatory instruction signs (red), location signs (black/yellow), direction signs (yellow), runway hold-short markings (four yellow lines), enhanced taxiway centerlines, and runway guard lights (if visible). Explain to the instructor what each sign/marking means and what action you would take when encountering it.

5. Assess wind conditions: Using the windsock, ATIS/AWOS, or environmental indicators, determine current wind direction and approximate velocity. Explain to the instructor how the wind will affect your air taxi operations: “Wind is 270 at 12, so during air taxi eastbound we’ll have a left crosswind requiring right cyclic correction to maintain track. I’ll maintain at least 30 knots to ensure adequate tail rotor authority.”

6. Brief aircraft lighting configuration: Show the instructor where the anti-collision light switch, position light switch, and landing light switch are located. Brief your intended lighting configuration for the air taxi: “I’ll turn on the anti-collision light before engine start, use position lights for conspicuity, and turn on the landing light before crossing the active runway for increased visibility to other traffic.”

7. Brief the air taxi plan: Using the airport diagram, brief the expected air taxi route from the current location to the departure runway. Identify any runways you will cross, taxiways you will use, and hold-short points. Brief expected clearances: “I expect ground control to clear us to Runway 17 via Alpha and Bravo, with instructions to hold short of Runway 9. After receiving clearance to cross Runway 9, we’ll continue on Bravo to the Runway 17 hold-short line.” Mark the route on the airport diagram.

8. Explain H/V diagram considerations: Point to the H/V diagram for the training aircraft and show where your planned air taxi altitude and airspeed fall on the diagram. Explain: “I plan to air taxi at 40 feet and 30-35 knots. This places us [inside/near the edge of] the lower avoid area. If we experienced an engine failure, I would immediately lower collective, apply aft cyclic to arrest forward speed, and land on [identify specific forced landing area]. I’ll minimize time in the avoid area by using an efficient, direct route.”

9. Complete before-taxi checklist: Under instructor supervision, complete the before-taxi or taxi checklist systematically. Call out each item and demonstrate the check: “Flight controls—free and correct, full range of motion, cyclic moves pedals.” “Collective friction—adjusted.” “Instruments—all green, no warning flags.” “Radios—frequencies set, COM1 on ground control.” “Transponder—ALT mode, code set.” “Cruise checklist complete.”

10. Contact ground control and request air taxi clearance: Key the microphone and transmit: “Centerville Ground, Helicopter 123, [location] with information [ATIS code], request air taxi to Runway 17.” Listen carefully to the clearance. Write it down on your kneeboard. Read back: “Air taxi to Runway 17 via Alpha, Bravo, hold short of Runway 9 at Charlie, Helicopter 123.” If the clearance is complex or you are unsure, ask ATC to repeat: “Helicopter 123, request you repeat the taxi clearance.”

11. Perform air taxi initiation: Apply smooth collective to establish light skid weight. Add slight aft cyclic to establish approximately 5-degree nose-up attitude. Smoothly apply forward cyclic while increasing collective to establish a climb to the target altitude (e.g., 40 feet AGL). Accelerate to the target airspeed (e.g., 30 knots). Verbalize: “Establishing 40 feet and 30 knots. Climbing through 20 feet, airspeed 10 knots increasing. Altitude 40 feet, airspeed 25 knots. Altitude and airspeed stabilized, rotor RPM in the green.”

12. Maintain altitude within ±10 feet during air taxi: Use outside references (hangar rooflines, treelines, distant horizon) to judge altitude. Cross-check with the radar altimeter or barometric altimeter (if over 200 feet AGL). Make small collective corrections to maintain altitude. If altitude increases above 50 feet (target 40 feet), reduce collective slightly and wait for the helicopter to descend. If altitude decreases below 30 feet, add collective slightly. Avoid over-controlling—small corrections, then allow the aircraft to stabilize.

13. Maintain desired airspeed during air taxi: Reference groundspeed over the surface to judge airspeed. If the ground is passing too quickly, reduce forward cyclic slightly. If progress is too slow, add forward cyclic. Cross-check airspeed indicator periodically. Adjust power as needed—increasing collective increases power requirement and may reduce airspeed if cyclic is not adjusted; decreasing collective reduces power and may increase airspeed if cyclic is not adjusted. Coordinate power and cyclic inputs to maintain constant altitude and airspeed.

14. Maintain track along taxiway centerlines or cleared route: Align the taxiway centerline (yellow stripe) with a reference point on the fuselage (e.g., center windscreen post, chin bubble center). Apply cyclic corrections to prevent drift. If a crosswind is present, establish a crab angle into the wind to maintain track over the centerline. Make small, smooth corrections—avoid large, abrupt control inputs. Continuously scan forward for obstacles, traffic, and navigation references.

15. Apply wind corrections during air taxi: If crosswind from the left, apply right cyclic to prevent drift. If crosswind from the right, apply left cyclic. The amount of correction depends on wind strength. Monitor groundtrack over the taxiway centerline and adjust as needed. In headwinds, maintain more forward cyclic to achieve desired groundspeed. In tailwinds, reduce forward cyclic to avoid excessive groundspeed. Avoid air taxiing too slowly in crosswinds—maintain at least 30 knots to ensure adequate tail rotor authority.

16. Manage rotor RPM during air taxi: Monitor rotor RPM continuously. Maintain RPM in the center of the green arc. During power changes (acceleration, turns, climbs, descents), adjust collective and throttle (if manual throttle) or allow the governor/correlator to maintain RPM. If RPM begins to decrease, lower collective immediately to reduce rotor system load. If RPM increases above green arc, slightly raise collective (if appropriate for the flight condition) or reduce throttle slightly. Never allow RPM to decay into the yellow caution arc.

17. Perform turns during air taxi: To turn left, apply left cyclic to establish 10-20 degrees of bank, add left pedal to coordinate (prevent yaw), and increase collective slightly to maintain altitude through the turn. Monitor turn rate, altitude, and airspeed. As you approach the desired heading, apply right cyclic to roll out, reduce collective to prevent ballooning, and adjust pedals to maintain heading. Ensure adequate tail rotor clearance throughout the turn—look back and verify clearance before initiating turns near obstacles.

18. Hold short of runways: As you approach a runway holding position (indicated by red sign and four yellow lines), reduce airspeed and altitude gradually. Decelerate to 10-15 knots and descend to 20-30 feet. Stop the helicopter in a stable hover or slow air taxi 50-100 feet prior to the hold-short marking. Visually confirm the hold-short marking and runway ahead. At a towered airport, monitor ground control frequency and wait for clearance before crossing. At a non-towered airport, visually clear the runway in both directions and prepare to self-announce before crossing.

19. Request runway crossing clearance: At a towered airport, key the microphone and request: “Centerville Ground, Helicopter 123, request to cross Runway 9 at Charlie.” After receiving clearance (“Helicopter 123, cross Runway 9 at Charlie”), read back: “Cross Runway 9 at Charlie, Helicopter 123.” Visually clear the runway in both directions as a backup even though ATC cleared you. At a non-towered airport, self-announce: “Centerville traffic, Helicopter 123, crossing Runway 9 at [location], Centerville.” Visually clear the runway in both directions before crossing.

20. Cross runways safely and expeditiously: After receiving clearance (towered) or visually clearing the runway and announcing (non-towered), air taxi across the runway at 90 degrees. Maintain 30-40 feet AGL and 25-30 knots. Cross smoothly and professionally—not rushed but not overly cautious. Clear the runway completely, then continue air taxi on the far side. If you are delayed crossing (e.g., extended ATC coordination, traffic conflict), do not linger in the runway environment—either cross expeditiously when cleared or move away from the runway hold-short area to a safe position.

21. Maintain situational awareness using the airport diagram: Throughout air taxi, reference the airport diagram frequently. Mark your current position mentally or with a finger/pencil. Cross-check location signs (black/yellow signs) with the diagram to confirm your position. Anticipate upcoming turns, hold-short positions, and runway crossings. If you become disoriented, stop safely (clear of runways and taxiways if possible) and ask the instructor for assistance, or request progressive taxi instructions from ATC.

22. Communicate position and intentions clearly: Maintain appropriate radio communications throughout the air taxi. Acknowledge all ATC instructions: “Wilco, Helicopter 123” or read back as appropriate. At non-towered airports, make position announcements at key points: “Centerville traffic, Helicopter 123, passing the fuel pad, continuing to Runway 17, Centerville.” Use standard phraseology, be concise, and speak clearly.

23. Manage distractions and prioritize tasks: Focus outside during air taxi—80-90% visual attention outside the cockpit. Limit instrument crosschecks to brief glances. Avoid extended head-down time. If a distraction occurs (e.g., unexpected radio call, passenger question, warning light), assess the priority: Aviate (control the helicopter—maintain altitude/track), Navigate (stay on cleared route), Communicate (acknowledge ATC or handle the distraction). If necessary, stop the aircraft safely and resolve the distraction before continuing.

24. Demonstrate H/V awareness during air taxi: Throughout the air taxi, verbalize or mentally note forced landing areas. “If we lost power right now, I would land on that open ramp area ahead.” “Over this taxiway, I have the grass area to the left if needed.” Maintain rotor RPM in the green arc continuously. Select altitude and airspeed combinations that position you near the edge of the H/V avoid area when possible, given obstacle clearance and operational requirements.

25. Practice both towered and non-towered procedures (as available): If training includes operations at both towered and non-towered airports, demonstrate appropriate procedures for each environment. At towered airports: obtain clearance, read back, comply with hold-short instructions, request runway crossings. At non-towered airports: self-announce position and intentions, monitor CTAF continuously, visually clear runways before crossing, give way to traffic on final approach.

26. Demonstrate night or reduced visibility operations (if applicable to lesson): If the lesson includes night air taxi, ensure all aircraft lights are functioning (anti-collision, position, landing/taxi lights). Use taxiway edge lights (blue) for navigation. Reduce airspeed slightly to allow more reaction time. Focus on lighted guidance rather than unlighted obstacles. Request progressive taxi if disoriented. If visibility is reduced (simulated or actual), demonstrate increased caution, reduced speed, and use of all available lighting and navigation aids.

27. Respond to instructor coaching and feedback: When the instructor provides feedback during the flight, acknowledge and immediately implement corrections. Examples: Instructor: “Your altitude is 55 feet—lower collective slightly.” Student: “Roger, lowering collective, returning to 40 feet.” Instructor: “You’re drifting left off centerline—right cyclic correction.” Student: “Correcting right, back on centerline.” Demonstrate the ability to accept feedback, process it quickly, and make appropriate control inputs.

28. Maintain professional standards throughout: Air taxi with smooth, coordinated control inputs. Avoid abrupt or jerky movements. Maintain altitude and airspeed within tolerances consistently (not just occasionally). Demonstrate awareness of surroundings—other aircraft, ground personnel, obstacles. Use checklists systematically. Communicate clearly and professionally on the radio. Project confidence and competence—you are training to commercial pilot standards, preparing for passenger-carrying and aerial work operations.

29. Debrief your own performance: After the flight, self-assess your performance before the instructor debriefs you. Identify what went well: “I felt my altitude control was good, and I held centerline well during the crosswind segments.” Identify areas for improvement: “I need to work on smoother power management during turns, and I forgot to write down that second clearance which made my readback hesitant.” Demonstrate self-awareness and a commitment to continuous improvement.

30. Complete post-flight assignments: Study the assigned AIM chapters, review additional airport diagrams, prepare sample clearances and readbacks, and brief how you would conduct air taxi operations at other airports (towered and non-towered). Review the H/V diagram and prepare to explain H/V considerations at the next lesson. Ask questions about any concepts that remain unclear.

Completion Standards

The student demonstrates understanding of current airport aeronautical references (Chart Supplement, airport diagram, NOTAMs), air taxi instructions and limitations, airport signs/markings/lighting, wind indicators, aircraft lighting, air taxi procedures at towered and non-towered airports, runway overflying considerations, and H/V diagram implications as specified in ACS Knowledge elements CH.IV.C.K1 through K7.

The student demonstrates effective risk management by identifying and mitigating risks associated with distractions/loss of situational awareness, reduced visibility/night operations, runway incursions, main rotor/tail rotor strike hazards, H/V diagram performance considerations, and confirmation/expectation bias per ACS Risk Management elements CH.IV.C.R1 through R6.

The student demonstrates the skill to perform air taxi operations by:

• Completing the appropriate before-taxi and cruise checklists systematically (CH.IV.C.S1)

• Using the airport diagram or taxi chart during air taxi operations (if published) and maintaining continuous situational awareness of position, cleared route, and hold-short points (CH.IV.C.S2)

• Selecting a safe airspeed (typically 20-40 knots depending on aircraft type, winds, and obstacles) and altitude (typically 25-100 feet AGL with consideration for obstacle clearance, H/V diagram avoidance, and ATC restrictions) appropriate for conditions (CH.IV.C.S3)

• Maintaining desired track along taxiway centerlines or cleared routes within ±10 feet of centerline and desired groundspeed through headwind and crosswind conditions using appropriate wind correction techniques while avoiding flight conditions that might lead to loss of tail rotor effectiveness (maintaining adequate airspeed in crosswinds, typically ≥30 knots) (CH.IV.C.S4)

• Maintaining powerplant and main rotor RPM (Nr) within the green arc (normal operating range per RFM) throughout all air taxi operations including acceleration, turns, climbs, and descents (CH.IV.C.S5)

• Complying with all airport/heliport/helipad/landing area markings (holding short of runways until cleared), lights (responding appropriately to runway guard lights and stop bar lights), signs (interpreting and complying with mandatory instruction signs), and ATC instructions (accurate readback, proper execution of clearances) at all times (CH.IV.C.S6)

• Maintaining specified altitude ±10 feet throughout air taxi operations per commercial pilot ACS standards (CH.IV.C.S7)

The student demonstrates commercial pilot proficiency in air taxi operations, exercising professional judgment in H/V diagram risk management, maintaining precise altitude control, communicating clearly with ATC or on CTAF, preventing runway incursions through disciplined hold-short compliance, and operating safely in both towered and non-towered environments, meeting all performance standards specified in FAA-S-ACS-16, Area of Operation IV, Task C (CH.IV.C).

Specific Commercial Standards for Task CH.IV.C:

• Altitude tolerance: ±10 feet (commercial standard, tighter than private pilot ±50-100 foot tolerances for maneuvering flight)
• Track maintenance: centerline ±10 feet (professional precision)
• Rotor RPM: continuously within green arc (no excursions)
• Clearance compliance: 100% compliance with all hold-short instructions, runway crossings only when cleared/safe
• Situational awareness: continuous position awareness, no disorientation, correct airport diagram usage

The lesson is complete when the student consistently performs air taxi operations within these standards over multiple repetitions at both towered and non-towered airports (if available), demonstrates thorough understanding of all knowledge elements, effectively manages all identified risks, and exhibits the precision and professionalism expected of a commercial helicopter pilot.