Max Trescott is joined by DPE Matt Johnson for a comprehensive and engaging mock oral checkride focused on the private helicopter pilot certification. This episode, one of the most popular styles in the Rotary Wing Show and Aviation News Talk history, simulates the real-world experience of sitting for an FAA practical test, complete with detailed discussions of eligibility, regulations, systems knowledge, and scenario-based questions.
Matt begins by describing his pre-checkride procedures, including document verification, aircraft records review, and setting a comfortable environment for the applicant. He emphasizes the three-legged stool concept: the examiner must be qualified, the aircraft must be airworthy, and the applicant must meet all regulatory requirements. To build rapport, Matt asks Max who his first passenger would be, which Matt then cleverly weaves into multiple checkride scenarios.
The mock oral kicks off with pilot certification and recency requirements under FAR 61.57, followed by an in-depth discussion of Robinson-specific endorsements under SFAR 73. Max correctly explains the need for an additional PIC endorsement after passing the checkride and describes the required flight reviews based on time-in-type.
The two then explore aircraft documents using the AROW mnemonic and systems such as weight and balance. Max demonstrates knowledge of performance planning, Vne adjustments, retreating blade stall, and preflight procedures. He uses both the PAVE and I'M SAFE checklists to explain how he assesses his personal readiness before a flight.
Matt tests Max's cross-country planning, asking about checkpoint selection, altitude choice, and airspace compliance. Max describes navigating around Hayward, California, and into the Central Valley, carefully avoiding Class B and C airspace. The discussion extends into weather analysis, interpretation of AIRMETs and SIGMETs, and use of EFB tools for inflight awareness.
In the systems and emergencies portion, Max explains operation of the electrical system, what to do in case of alternator or battery failure, and how the engine continues to operate using magnetos. They also dive into clutch actuator warnings, rotor system dynamics (free-teetering under-slung system), and the hazards of low-G mast bumping, vortex ring state, and forward CG conditions.
For add-on ratings, Matt details how the helicopter ACS matrix minimizes the oral scope for already-rated pilots. They compare traffic pattern procedures for helicopters versus airplanes, discuss airport lighting for heliports, and reinforce unique requirements like helipad rotating beacon colors (green-yellow-white).
Throughout the oral, Matt guides the conversation in a scenario-based manner to simulate a real checkride. He weaves in questions on regulations, performance charts, and even cross-references student answers to determine when to revisit topics like weight and balance, systems, or weather.
The episode wraps just before the preflight inspection begins, with Matt outlining the structure of the flight portion, which would include autorotations, hover maneuvers, and a post-flight debrief.
This detailed, realistic mock checkride offers exceptional value for both helicopter students and fixed-wing pilots considering a rotorcraft add-on. It brings listeners inside the mind of a DPE and prepares them for what to expect on test day—covering not just the “what” but the “why” behind FAA testing standards.
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