Aviation Safety Inspector (Rotorcraft-Helicopter) (Principal Operations Inspector (POI))

Aviation Safety Inspector (Rotorcraft-Helicopter)

The Aviation Safety Inspector (Rotorcraft-Helicopter) functions as the primary interface between assigned air operators/agencies/airmen/designees and the Federal Aviation Administration. Has program responsibility to assure that assigned organizations meet Federal Aviation Regulations with respect to helicopter operations programs.

Incumbent determines the need for, and then establishes work programs for surveillance and inspection of assigned organizations within manpower and budget limitations to assure adherence to the applicable regulations.

Assures on a continuing basis that assigned organizations are properly and adequately organized, staffed, and equipped; have and conduct an adequate training program, including an acceptable record keeping system; and have facilities and procedures that meet all regulatory requirements. Resides as a member of FAA-Industry meetings; maintains regular contact with organizations assigned; and correction of any deficiencies/discrepancies and refuses or withdraws approval if they cannot be resolved. Is responsible for the conduct of enforcement investigations and preparation of final reports and recommendations on disposition. Performs the emergency suspension of certificates or cancellations of rotorcraft-helicopter specifications.

Conducts or directs the reexamination of certificated airmen or recertification of an operator or agency. Conducts investigations of public complaints, congressional inquiries, and rotorcraft-helicopter incidents and accidents.

Provides verbal and/or written technical assistance to legal counsel, testifies at court trials, and formal hearings and gives depositions.

Coordinates Minimum Equipment List (MEL) approvals with the Principal Airworthiness Inspectors. Takes enforcement action in instances of noncompliance with the MEL.

Coordinates with geographic inspectors for the accomplishment of nonroutine air carrier surveillance.

Approves/accepts or disapproves/rejects manuals and revisions to such manuals. May require amendments to previously approved manuals to accomplish the following: correct any conflict with the regulatory requirements; eliminate unsafe practices; and/or improve the specificity of instruction.

Evaluates training programs to insure that they meet the requirements of the Federal Aviation regulations. Approves or disapproves these training programs including flight simulators, training devices, or other such equipment used in these programs.

Approves/disapproves designation of check airmen and makes recommendations on the appointment of designees.

Evaluates operations and facilities by on-site inspections and review of reports by geographic inspectors or others. Negotiates changes essential or desirable in their policies and procedures. Determines the appropriate methods and/or plans for securing corrective action and determines through on-site inspection or inspector reports the effectiveness of any action.

Evaluates and approves/disapproves requests to operate under conditions not previously authorized and may prescribe additional conditions and limitations as appropriate.

Approves the original issuance of operations specifications and issues original operating certificates. Approves amendments to operations specifications. Evaluates the safety of proposed changes in route or airport authorizations; prescribes and changes required before approval.

Participates in proving flight evaluations to determine compliance with FARs. Recommends changes that will be required prior to approval.

Is responsible for monitoring all phases of operations including: training programs and records; base and station facilities; and route systems.

The incumbent will be required to participate in the flight program as an aircrew member and, FAA as such, must meet medical and flight currency requirements as set forth in agency orders governing the operation of rotorcraft-helicopter.

May be assigned other duties and responsibilities which are non-grade controlling.