M-3 Operations Manual

M-3 Operations Manual Middle Tennessee State University i Revision ORIGINAL – Revised 5/20/2024 Operations Manual Revision ORIGINAL Effective 5/20/2024 NOTE: THIS MANUAL IS UNCONTROLLED WHEN PRINTED OR DOWNLOADED MIDDLE TENNESSEE STATE UNIVERSITY DEPARTMENT OF AEROSPACE M-3 Operations Manual Middle Tennessee State University ii Revision ORIGINAL – Revised 5/20/2024 CONFIDENTIALITY STATEMENT This document contains confidential information of the Middle Tennessee State University (MTSU) Department of Aerospace, and may not be used, disclosed, or reproduced, in whole or in part, without the express written consent of MTSU Aerospace. M-3 Operations Manual Middle Tennessee State University iii Revision ORIGINAL – Revised 5/20/2024 Table of Contents Table of Contents ......................................................................................................................................... iii Revision Record ............................................................................................................................................. x Temporary Revision Record.......................................................................................................................... xi 1. Introduction ....................................................................................................................................... 1-2 1.1 Purpose of the Operations Manual .......................................................................................... 1-2 1.2 Department Mission Statement ............................................................................................... 1-2 1.3 Flight School Values .................................................................................................................. 1-2 1.4 Flight Training Roles and Responsibilities ................................................................................. 1-2 1.5 Compliance with Regulations and Policies ............................................................................... 1-4 2. Safety.................................................................................................................................................. 2-1 2.1 Commitment to Safety.............................................................................................................. 2-1 2.2 Safety Policy Statement ............................................................................................................ 2-2 2.3 Safety Management System ..................................................................................................... 2-3 2.4 Safety Culture, Non-Punitive Policy, and Unacceptable Behavior ............................................ 2-4 2.5 Emergency Response Plan ........................................................................................................ 2-5 2.5.1 Flight Crew Initial Response ................................................................................................. 2-5 2.5.2 Press and Media Relations ................................................................................................... 2-5 2.6 Voluntary Reporting.................................................................................................................. 2-6 2.7 Mandatory Reporting (Irregular Operations Reports) .............................................................. 2-6 2.8 NASA ASRS Reports................................................................................................................... 2-7 2.9 Mental Wellness ....................................................................................................................... 2-7 2.9.1 Statement from Dr. Eric Clark, MTSU Health Services Aviation Medical Examiner .............. 2-7 2.9.2 Mental Wellness Resources.................................................................................................. 2-7 3. Flight Lab Policies ............................................................................................................................... 3-1 3.1 Flight Labs ................................................................................................................................. 3-1 3.2 Flight Lab Funding..................................................................................................................... 3-1 3.2.1 Flight Lab Refunds ................................................................................................................ 3-1 3.3 Flight Lab Withdrawals ............................................................................................................. 3-1 3.4 Incomplete Flight Labs .............................................................................................................. 3-1 3.4.1 Incomplete Flight Lab Grades ............................................................................................... 3-1 3.4.2 Incomplete Flight Lab Funding ............................................................................................. 3-2 M-3 Operations Manual Middle Tennessee State University iv Revision ORIGINAL – Revised 5/20/2024 3.4.3 Individualized Education Plans ............................................................................................. 3-2 3.5 Failed Flight Labs....................................................................................................................... 3-2 3.5.1 Failed Flight Lab Grade ......................................................................................................... 3-2 3.5.2 Re-Registration of a Failed Flight Lab ................................................................................... 3-3 3.6 Removal From Flight Status ...................................................................................................... 3-3 3.6.1 Medically Disqualifying Events ............................................................................................. 3-4 3.7 Adequate Progress.................................................................................................................... 3-4 3.7.1 Steady Progression ............................................................................................................... 3-4 3.7.2 Timely Progression ............................................................................................................... 3-4 3.7.3 Failure to Maintain Adequate Progress ................................................................................ 3-4 3.8 Flight Review Boards................................................................................................................. 3-5 3.8.1 Flight Review Board Process................................................................................................. 3-5 3.8.2 Flight Review Board Members ............................................................................................. 3-5 4. Training Course Policies...................................................................................................................... 4-5 4.1 Student Enrollment................................................................................................................... 4-5 4.1.1 New Student Enrollment ...................................................................................................... 4-2 4.1.2 Returning Student Enrollment ............................................................................................. 4-2 4.1.3 Updated Personal Documents.............................................................................................. 4-2 4.1.4 Stagger Starts ....................................................................................................................... 4-2 4.2 Credit for Previous Flight Experience ....................................................................................... 4-2 4.3 Student Training Records .......................................................................................................... 4-2 4.4 Student Names for FAA Applications and Testing ..................................................................... 4-2 4.5 Name Corrections on Personal Documents .............................................................................. 4-3 4.6 Flight Instructor Concerns ........................................................................................................ 4-3 4.7 PlaneEnglish Training Modules ................................................................................................. 4-4 4.8 Stage Checks ............................................................................................................................. 4-4 4.8.1 Part 141 Stage Check Scheduling ......................................................................................... 4-4 4.8.2 Flight Lab Hours Guide ......................................................................................................... 4-4 4.8.3 Part 61 End of Course Scheduling ........................................................................................ 4-4 4.8.4 Credit for Incomplete or Unsatisfactory Stage Checks ......................................................... 4-5 4.8.5 Unsatisfactory Performance on Stage Checks ...................................................................... 4-5 4.8.6 Stage Check Plan of Actions ................................................................................................. 4-5 4.8.7 Stage Check Concerns or Appeals ........................................................................................ 4-5 M-3 Operations Manual Middle Tennessee State University v Revision ORIGINAL – Revised 5/20/2024 4.9 FAA Knowledge Tests ................................................................................................................ 4-5 4.10 Course Graduation .................................................................................................................... 4-5 4.11 Integrated Airmen Certification and Rating Applications (IACRA) ............................................ 4-6 4.11.1 Curriculum Association .................................................................................................... 4-6 4.11.2 Use of Social Security Numbers ....................................................................................... 4-6 4.12 FAA Practical Tests .................................................................................................................... 4-6 4.12.1 FAA Practical Test Scheduling ........................................................................................... 4-6 4.12.2 FAA Practical Test Paperwork ........................................................................................... 4-7 4.12.3 FAA Practical Test Ferry Policy .......................................................................................... 4-7 4.13 Consensual Relationships ......................................................................................................... 4-8 4.14 Completing Flight Labs Without Checkrides............................................................................. 4-8 5. Airport Operations ............................................................................................................................. 5-8 5.1 Ramp Safety .............................................................................................................................. 5-8 5.2 Personnel Identification............................................................................................................ 5-2 5.3 Student Dress Code .................................................................................................................. 5-2 5.3.1 Flight and Ground Testing Attire........................................................................................... 5-2 5.3.2 Winter Weather.................................................................................................................... 5-2 5.4 Smoking, Vaping, and Tobacco Products .................................................................................. 5-3 5.5 Lost and Found ......................................................................................................................... 5-3 5.6 First Solo Traditions .................................................................................................................. 5-3 5.7 Designated Runup Areas .......................................................................................................... 5-3 5.8 Takeoffs and Landings ............................................................................................................... 5-3 5.8.1 Paved Runways Takeoff and Landing Distances ................................................................... 5-3 5.8.2 Intersection Departures ....................................................................................................... 5-4 5.8.3 Unpaved Runways ................................................................................................................ 5-4 5.8.4 (RESERVED) Piper Cub Operations ....................................................................................... 5-4 5.8.5 Line Up and Wait .................................................................................................................. 5-4 5.8.6 Land and Hold Short Operations (LAHSO) ............................................................................ 5-4 5.9 Traffic Pattern Operations ......................................................................................................... 5-4 5.9.1 Extending Downwind ........................................................................................................... 5-4 5.9.2 Departure Procedures .......................................................................................................... 5-4 5.9.3 Changing Runways Due to Wind .......................................................................................... 5-4 5.10 MBT Specific Operations........................................................................................................... 5-4 M-3 Operations Manual Middle Tennessee State University vi Revision ORIGINAL – Revised 5/20/2024 5.10.1 MBT Runup Areas ............................................................................................................ 5-4 5.10.2 MBT Traffic Pattern Curfew .............................................................................................. 5-4 5.10.3 MBT Traffic Pattern Entry ................................................................................................. 5-5 5.10.4 MBT Departure and Arrival Procedures ........................................................................... 5-5 5.10.5 MBT Practice Instrument Approaches ............................................................................. 5-5 5.10.6 MBT Parking Procedures .................................................................................................. 5-5 5.10.7 Stadium Temporary Flight Restrictions ............................................................................ 5-5 5.11 (RESERVED) SYI Specific Operations ......................................................................................... 5-5 6. Aircraft Operations ............................................................................................................................. 6-1 6.1 Pilot in Command Responsibility (PIC) ..................................................................................... 6-1 6.2 Aircraft Fueling and Fuel Trucks ................................................................................................ 6-1 6.2.1 Aircraft Fueling ..................................................................................................................... 6-1 6.2.2 Fuel Trucks ............................................................................................................................ 6-1 6.2.3 Fuel Cards ............................................................................................................................. 6-1 6.3 Approved Airports .................................................................................................................... 6-1 6.4 Use of MTSU Aircraft ................................................................................................................ 6-1 6.5 Flight Simulators ....................................................................................................................... 6-2 6.5.1 Flight Simulators Care........................................................................................................... 6-2 6.5.2 Flight Simulator Use ............................................................................................................. 6-2 6.6 Passengers and Observers ........................................................................................................ 6-2 6.6.1 Passenger Requirements ...................................................................................................... 6-2 6.6.2 Lesson Observer Requirements............................................................................................ 6-2 6.7 Dispatching Procedures ............................................................................................................ 6-3 6.7.1 Arriving for a Flight ............................................................................................................... 6-3 6.7.2 Preflight Worksheet.............................................................................................................. 6-3 6.7.3 Solo Flights ........................................................................................................................... 6-3 6.7.4 Aircraft Tins .......................................................................................................................... 6-3 6.8 Aircraft Airworthiness ............................................................................................................... 6-3 6.8.1 Aircraft Inspections/Scheduled Maintenance ...................................................................... 6-3 6.8.2 Aircraft Discrepancies ........................................................................................................... 6-4 6.8.3 Aircraft Condition ................................................................................................................. 6-4 6.8.4 Operation with Inoperative Instruments and/or Equipment ............................................... 6-4 6.9 Aircraft Care .............................................................................................................................. 6-4 M-3 Operations Manual Middle Tennessee State University vii Revision ORIGINAL – Revised 5/20/2024 6.9.1 Aircraft Cleanliness ............................................................................................................... 6-4 6.9.2 Windscreen Care .................................................................................................................. 6-4 6.9.3 Motion Sickness ................................................................................................................... 6-4 6.10 Aircraft Securing ....................................................................................................................... 6-5 6.11 Cold Weather Operations ......................................................................................................... 6-5 6.12 Aerobatics ................................................................................................................................. 6-5 6.12.1 Spin Training ..................................................................................................................... 6-5 6.13 Adjusting Aircraft Propellers ..................................................................................................... 6-5 6.14 Special VFR Operations ............................................................................................................. 6-5 6.15 Resetting Circuit Breakers ......................................................................................................... 6-5 6.16 Limitations Specific to Piper Seminole Aircraft ......................................................................... 6-6 6.17 Fuel Samples and Disposing of Contaminated Fuel.................................................................. 6-6 6.18 Checklist Usage ......................................................................................................................... 6-6 6.19 Boarding and Deplaning ........................................................................................................... 6-6 6.20 Aircraft Starting......................................................................................................................... 6-7 6.21 Taxiing ....................................................................................................................................... 6-7 6.22 Flight Plans ................................................................................................................................ 6-7 6.23 Emergencies.............................................................................................................................. 6-7 6.23.1 Medical Emergencies ....................................................................................................... 6-7 6.23.2 Laser Strikes ..................................................................................................................... 6-7 6.23.3 Wildlife Strikes ................................................................................................................. 6-7 6.23.4 Icing Conditions................................................................................................................ 6-7 6.24 Electronic Devices ..................................................................................................................... 6-8 6.24.1 Regulatory ........................................................................................................................ 6-8 6.24.2 Approved Use................................................................................................................... 6-8 6.24.3 Prohibited Use ................................................................................................................. 6-8 6.24.4 Mounting ......................................................................................................................... 6-8 6.25 Electronic Devices – Additional Photo/Video Policies .............................................................. 6-8 6.25.1 Photo/Video Equipment Definition ................................................................................. 6-8 6.25.2 Dual Only.......................................................................................................................... 6-8 6.25.3 Critical Phases of Flight .................................................................................................... 6-8 6.25.4 Positive Aircraft Control ................................................................................................... 6-8 6.25.5 Passengers........................................................................................................................ 6-9 M-3 Operations Manual Middle Tennessee State University viii Revision ORIGINAL – Revised 5/20/2024 6.25.6 Content ............................................................................................................................ 6-9 6.26 Responsibility for Damage to MTSU Aircraft ............................................................................ 6-9 6.27 (RESERVED) Radio Communications ......................................................................................... 6-9 6.27.1 Blue Raider Callsigns ........................................................................................................ 6-9 6.27.2 Frequency Monitoring ..................................................................................................... 6-9 6.27.3 Radio Professionalism ...................................................................................................... 6-9 7. Flight Scheduling and Dispatch .......................................................................................................... 7-1 7.1 Graduation Rental Flight ........................................................................................................... 7-1 7.2 Hours of Operation ................................................................................................................... 7-1 7.2.1 Early Dispatch ....................................................................................................................... 7-1 7.2.2 After Hours ........................................................................................................................... 7-1 7.3 Scheduling Procedures ............................................................................................................. 7-1 7.4 Schedule Change ...................................................................................................................... 7-3 7.5 Schedule Priority....................................................................................................................... 7-3 7.6 Stage Check Scheduling ............................................................................................................ 7-3 7.7 Bumping Procedures ................................................................................................................ 7-3 7.8 Check-Out ................................................................................................................................. 7-3 7.9 Check-In .................................................................................................................................... 7-3 7.10 Instructor Cancellations and No Shows .................................................................................... 7-3 7.11 Flight Readiness Self-Evaluation ............................................................................................... 7-4 7.12 Pre-Flight and Post-Flight Briefings ........................................................................................... 7-4 7.13 Deviations from Flight Plan....................................................................................................... 7-4 7.14 Late Policy ................................................................................................................................. 7-4 7.15 Schedule Blocks ........................................................................................................................ 7-4 7.16 Long Solo Scheduling ................................................................................................................ 7-4 7.17 Short-Type Scheduling .............................................................................................................. 7-5 7.18 Skipping Class ........................................................................................................................... 7-5 7.19 (RESERVED) Staff Flight Experience .......................................................................................... 7-5 8. Quality Management System ............................................................................................................. 8-1 8.1 Quality Management System (QMS) Mission Statement ......................................................... 8-1 8.2 Quality Management Team ...................................................................................................... 8-1 8.2.1 Quality Manager................................................................................................................... 8-1 8.2.2 Quality Leads ........................................................................................................................ 8-1 M-3 Operations Manual Middle Tennessee State University ix Revision ORIGINAL – Revised 5/20/2024 8.2.3 Auxiliary QMS Staff............................................................................................................... 8-1 8.3 Instructor Feedback Sessions ................................................................................................... 8-1 8.4 Ramp Checks............................................................................................................................. 8-1 8.5 Preflight Worksheet Audits ....................................................................................................... 8-2 8.6 Quality Reports ......................................................................................................................... 8-2 Appendix A: Flight School Staff ..................................................................................................................... 1 Appendix B: Required Flight Lab Materials ................................................................................................... 1 Appendix C: Standard Conditions of Aircraft Use ......................................................................................... 1 Appendix D: Attendance Policy ..................................................................................................................... 1 M-3 Operations Manual Middle Tennessee State University x Revision ORIGINAL – Revised 5/20/2024 Revision Record The following items were changed, modified, added, or deleted in this revision. Revision Date Pages Summary of Changes Entered By ORIGINAL 05/20/2024 All Major revision. MG/PN/NT/DP M-3 Operations Manual Middle Tennessee State University xi Revision ORIGINAL – Revised 5/20/2024 Temporary Revision Record The following items are in effect until the next full revision. Affected pages should have a yellow background. Temporary Revision # Date Incorporated Incorporated By Date Superseded Superseded By M-3 Operations Manual Middle Tennessee State University 1-2 Revision ORIGINAL – Revised 5/20/2024 1. Introduction 1.1 Purpose of the Operations Manual The purpose of the MTSU Flight School Operations Manual is to provide an outline of the policies and procedures for flight training and flight operations at MTSU. Additional information pertaining to flight training operations, to include restrictions and limitations, are in the MTSU Safety Practices and Procedures, aircraft checklists, aircraft standardization manuals, training course outlines, by referencing 14 CFR Part(s) 61, 91 and 141, and other relevant MTSU documentation. 1.2 Department Mission Statement To prepare our students to become the leaders of the next generation of aviation professionals by developing the knowledge, skills, values, and character necessary for successful careers within the aerospace industry. 1.3 Flight School Values The following flight school values were developed through a collaborative process involving staff and students at the MTSU Flight School. These values are guidelines for the culture of the flight school. • Invest in Every Student: Everyone is invested in the success of every student. We view each student’s time and resources as valuable as our own. • Choose Excellence and Safety: Always make the best choice. We aim to exceed industry standards and promote a positive safety culture. • Build Our Team: Our team is built through clear communication, open collaboration, intentional community, and mutual respect. We value each other and view ourselves as one team with one mission. • Give Back and Invite In: Commit to giving back as students, employees, alumni, community members, and members of the aviation industry. We actively invite people from all backgrounds into aviation. • Foster Passion for Aviation: Our learning environment is positive and encouraging. We never lose sight of sharing our passion for aviation. 1.4 Flight Training Roles and Responsibilities The Director of Aerospace Airport Operations is responsible for the overall management and leadership of MTSU Airport Operations, as well as coordinating the efforts of the Flight School with the academic mission of the Department of Aerospace. The Director of Aerospace Safety is an advocate for aerospace safety and provides management and leadership of all safety programs within the Department of Aerospace. The Flight Training Managers are responsible for overseeing progress and working with flight instructors to ensure that students are making satisfactory progress in their course and assisting flight instructors in resolving any issues that may be encountered. M-3 Operations Manual Middle Tennessee State University 1-3 Revision ORIGINAL – Revised 5/20/2024 The Assistant Flight Training Managers are responsible for supporting students’ training needs. They provide the daily oversight of your instructor and assist with more routine issues. They can be contacted via email at assistant.chief@mtsu.edu . Flight Instructors are responsible for providing students with the training, guidance, and mentoring necessary to achieve the applicable pilot certification. Instructors are to instill the discipline necessary for ensuring that students conduct all flight operations to the highest level of safety possible. Flight instructors are expected to be night current if providing instruction during the period 1 hour after sunset to 1 hour before sunrise. They must be instrument current if providing instruction on an instrument flight plan. Further details are contained in the Flight Instructor Manual. Under MTSU’s Air Agency Certificate, the requirements for Chief Instructor, Assistant Chief Instructor, Check Instructor and Certified Flight Instructor will be maintained as outlined in 14 CFR Part 141. Team Lead instructors are an additional resource available to students. They are available to answer questions, help instructors with paperwork and problems, and may be called upon for student intervention flight and ground training. Each supervising instructor group has dedicated team leads. Students are responsible for showing up to their lessons on time, prepared, and ready to learn. Students are encouraged to speak with their instructors if they have questions. If a problem exists with the student’s instructor, it is advised for the student to speak with the Flight Training Manager early to resolve any problems. Students are most directly responsible for the successful completion of their flight training. Questions, problems, or concerns should be addressed initially with the primary flight instructor and then escalated to the appropriate supervising instructor. A list of all supervising instructors is located on the school’s ForeFlight drive. All flight school staff maintain an open-door policy to encourage communication with students. A complete list of current flight school leadership staff is available in the appropriate appendix to this manual. M-3 Operations Manual Middle Tennessee State University 1-4 Revision ORIGINAL – Revised 5/20/2024 1.5 Compliance with Regulations and Policies All training conducted at the MTSU flight school must comply with current FAA regulations and MTSU policies, including but not limited to 14 CFR, Safety Practices and Procedures, Training Course Outlines, Standardization Manuals, Checklists, and Aircraft Flight Manuals. Operations that deviate from MTSU policies require approval from the Director of Aerospace Airport Operations. M-3 Operations Manual Middle Tennessee State University 2-1 Revision ORIGINAL – Revised 5/20/2024 2. Safety Please reference the most current revision of the SMS Manual for further information on the Safety Management System at the Department of Aerospace. 2.1 Commitment to Safety The MTSU Department of Aerospace was established in 1942 and has grown into one of the nation's most respected aerospace programs. A key element of the department’s success is its unwavering commitment to excellence and safety. Our strong safety culture serves as the foundation upon which the department's mission has been pursued for more than 80 years. The mission of the Department of Aerospace is to prepare our students to become the leaders of the next generation of aviation professionals by developing the knowledge, skills, values, and character necessary for successful careers within the aerospace industry. Perhaps the most important core value the department seeks to instill in its students is safety. To accomplish this, we strive to maintain a strong safety culture and an effective safety management plan. This document is an important component in maintaining both of those objectives. We understand that some risk is inherent in aviation and that some human error is inevitable. Accordingly, we seek to build an atmosphere of mutual trust that will encourage reporting of errors and unsafe conditions; promote candid admissions and discussions; and beget productive dialogue and positive solutions that will mitigate risk and reduce the chances for human error. This is our commitment to cultivating an environment where choosing safety is the only path to success. Safety cannot be achieved with a partial or occasional focus. It requires complete attention and dedication at all times. The deliberate and wholehearted participation of each individual is required to uphold this culture, and this commitment is expected of every student, faculty, and staff member within the Department. Dr. Greg Van Patten Dean, College of Basic and Applied Science Dr. Chaminda Prelis Chair, Department of Aerospace M-3 Operations Manual Middle Tennessee State University 2-2 Revision ORIGINAL – Revised 5/20/2024 2.2 Safety Policy Statement The Department is committed to implementing and maintaining a fully functional Safety Management System (SMS) with a continuous focus on improving safety throughout the MTSU Department of Aerospace. As the Accountable Executive, I pledge to lead the Department in pursuit of the following commitments: • Establishing specific safety-related objectives that will be published and communicated to all individuals throughout the Department. • Monitoring, measuring, and tracking these safety objectives to ensure their successful attainment. • Providing the necessary financial, personnel, and other resources to establish and maintain a fully functional SMS. • Maintaining a confidential reporting system that encourages all individuals to report hazards, accidents, incidents, and safety issues without fear of reprisal. • Ensuring that no blame or disciplinary action is imposed on any individual reporting an unintentional error or operational event, even if regulations or Department policies were violated, or damage to Department property occurred. The only exceptions to this non-punitive policy are for Unacceptable Behavior, defined in section 1.2.2 of the SMS Manual. • Establishing, maintaining, and periodically exercising the Department’s Emergency Response Plan, ensuring a safe transition from normal to emergency operations. • Defining accountabilities for all individuals, including compliance with federal regulations, adherence to Department policies and procedures, compliance with applicable manufacturer procedures and limitations, active identification and elimination of hazards and unacceptable levels of risk, timely reporting of safety hazards, risks, and events, and contributing to a positive safety culture. These commitments and expectations will be communicated to all individuals throughout the Department to ensure their familiarity with the Department’s SMS, their duties and responsibilities, and our safety policy. This safety policy will be periodically reviewed to ensure it remains relevant and appropriate to the Department. Dr. Greg Van Patten Dean, College of Basic and Applied Science M-3 Operations Manual Middle Tennessee State University 2-3 Revision ORIGINAL – Revised 5/20/2024 2.3 Safety Management System The Department of Aerospace is committed to maintaining a Safety Management System (SMS) that meets industry standards, is appropriate to the size, scope, and complexity of the Department, and includes the following components: • Safety Policy; • Safety Risk Management; • Safety Assurance; and • Safety Promotion. • SMS documentation includes the Safety Policy and SMS Processes and Procedures documented in the SMS Manual (M-2). SMS documentation is kept in the Safety folder on the admin shared drive, on the Aerospace Safety Microsoft Teams, and in OmniSMS under the Policy / Objectives dropdown menu. A current version of the Safety Policy Statement is displayed throughout The Department. Current SMS Documentation will be available in at least the following locations: 1. Ground Operations; 2. The offices of: i. The Dean; ii. The Chair; iii. The Director of Aerospace Safety; and iv. Process Owners. Accountability of All Individuals Accountabilities are obligations that are inherent to a person’s designated role that cannot be delegated to other individuals and are critical to the continued safety of The Department. All personnel, including but not limited to students, flight instructors, maintenance personnel, managers, directors, supervisors, administrators, and faculty, are accountable for the following: 1. Compliance with Federal Regulations; 2. Compliance with The Department’s policies and procedures; 3. Compliance with applicable manufacturer procedures and limitations; 4. Actively identifying hazards and eliminating unacceptable levels of risk; 5. Reporting safety hazards, risks, and events in a timely manner; and 6. Contributing to a positive safety culture. M-3 Operations Manual Middle Tennessee State University 2-4 Revision ORIGINAL – Revised 5/20/2024 2.4 Safety Culture, Non-Punitive Policy, and Unacceptable Behavior Safety Culture is an expression of how safety is perceived, valued, and prioritized by students, employees, faculty, and administrators within The Department. It’s how people behave in relation to safety and risk when no one is watching. The Department is committed to upholding the following characteristics of a positive safety culture: 1. Promoting an atmosphere where human error is seen as inevitable, in order to cultivate a willingness to report errors and experiences; 2. Building a mutual trust that admissions and discussions will generate productive dialogue and positive solutions; and 3. Encouraging each person to always make the best choice, even if it is the hardest choice, in order to uphold the Department’s value of “Choose Excellence and Safety.” The Department is committed to a Just Culture, one in which personnel are not punished for actions, omissions, or decisions taken by them which are commensurate with their experience and training. The Department will not blame nor impose disciplinary action on any individual reporting an unintentional error or operational event, even if they may have violated regulations or Department policies or caused damage to Department property. The only exceptions to this non-punitive policy are for Unacceptable Behavior, which is defined below: 1. Premeditated or intentional acts with actual or potential consequences to personnel or equipment/property; 2. Reckless actions or decisions disregarding safety and precautions which affect the safety or security of The Department; 3. Unwillingness or inability to take responsibility for actions and participate in a Corrective Action Plan; 4. Failure to promptly report safety incidents or risk exposures; or 5. Events that appear to involve possible criminal activity, substance abuse, controlled substances, alcohol, or intentional falsification. The Department will convene an Event Review Committee (ERC) to analyze certain reports and events and to ensure a determination is reached regarding submitter culpability and recommended corrective actions in accordance with the Department’s Just Culture policies. The full policy and procedure for ERCs is documented in the SMS Manual. An ERC must be conducted before any of the following scenarios occur, resulting from a safety related issue: 1. Termination of an employee; 2. Issuance of a disciplinary warning; 3. Revocation of an employee’s assigned duties; or 4. Removal of a student from a lab. M-3 Operations Manual Middle Tennessee State University 2-5 Revision ORIGINAL – Revised 5/20/2024 2.5 Emergency Response Plan The Department has an Emergency Response Plan (ERP M-1) that provides duties, responsibilities, instructions, and guidance for use in the event of an emergency. All personnel should know where to locate the Emergency Response Plan and be familiar with the notification and communication procedures applicable to their role. The ERP will be kept in the Safety folder on the admin shared drive, on the Aerospace Safety Microsoft Teams, and on the MTSU ForeFlight drive. A current version of the Emergency Response Plan and workbooks will be printed and made available in at least the following locations: (1) Ground Operations; (2) The offices of: i. The Dean; ii. The Chair; iii. The Director of Aerospace Safety; and iv. Process Owners. 2.5.1 Flight Crew Initial Response Priority of Actions 1. Protect People 2. Protect Property 3. Preserve Evidence Contact 911, if life-threatening emergency. Contact MTSU Ground Operations 615-890-5755. 2.5.2 Press and Media Relations No member of the Department of Aerospace is permitted to make statements regarding any accident/incident/event to anyone without an explicit need to know. If any member of The Department of Aerospace is approached for a media statement, the following phraseology should be used: “I am not able to share any information regarding the event at this time. I will ensure your inquiry is directed to the appropriate personnel. I can take down your name and phone number and request a follow up by the appropriate university representative. Thank you for your concern and cooperation.” M-3 Operations Manual Middle Tennessee State University 2-6 Revision ORIGINAL – Revised 5/20/2024 2.6 Voluntary Reporting The Department has a confidential reporting system that is accessible on the MTSU Aerospace website, the Flight Schedule Pro (FSP) dashboard, and other prominent locations throughout the Department. Safety reports are submitted using OmniSMS via the following link: mtsu.omnisms.aero Voluntary Safety Reports are designed to capture hazards, concerns, and recommendations from those participating in the Department’s operations. Safety Reports are confidential by default, meaning identifying information included in the report will only be visible to the Safety Department; however, the report submitter has the option to notify the whole management team, if desired. There is also an option to make a Safety Report anonymous, meaning all identifying information is completely removed from the report. It’s important to note that anonymous reports that are lacking in detail or clarity may be closed without action, since the submitter is unknown and follow-up is not possible. 2.7 Mandatory Reporting (Irregular Operations Reports) Irregular Operation Reports (IROPs) are mandatory reports used to notify the Department’s management team of significant events and to gather data as part of the investigation process. IROPs are submitted using OmniSMS via the following link: mtsu.omnisms.aero In most cases, the management team will need to know the identity of the IROP submitter, but this is strictly for follow-up purposes. IROPs must be submitted within 24 hours of the events listed below: 1. Any event reportable under 49 CFR 830 (involving MTSU or non-MTSU aircraft); 2. Exceedance of any aircraft limitation; 3. Damage events; 4. Propeller Strike; 5. Tail Strike; 6. Wildlife Strike; 7. Runway or taxiway excursions (at least one wheel leaving the pavement); 8. Potential regulatory violation; 9. Potential violation of Department policy; 10. Off airport landing; 11. Aborted takeoff at a towered airport; 12. Declared emergency or minimum fuel; 13. Partial or total engine failure at any point after initial departure; 14. Personal injury/illness; and 15. Other events, upon request. M-3 Operations Manual Middle Tennessee State University 2-7 Revision ORIGINAL – Revised 5/20/2024 2.8 NASA ASRS Reports The Aviation Safety Reporting System (ASRS) was established by the FAA but is administered by NASA to ensure anonymity. Filing an ASRS report may grant relief from certificate suspension or monetary fines for clearance deviations and other regulatory violations if the person completing the report satisfies the following criteria: 1. The violation was inadvertent and not deliberate. 2. The violation does not involve a criminal offense or accident. 3. The pilot involved does not have any history of FAR violations within the last five years. A pilot may file an unlimited number of ASRS reports, but may only be granted relief once in any five- year period. ASRS forms are available online at: http://asrs.arc.nasa.gov/. A pilot involved in a situation that may warrant filing an ASRS report may discuss the situation with the Director of Aerospace Safety or an FTM/AFTM prior to completing the report. Most events warranting submission of a NASA report also require an IROP. 2.9 Mental Wellness 2.9.1 Statement from Dr. Eric Clark, MTSU Health Services Aviation Medical Examiner As a pilot, navigating life’s stressors may be complicated by concerns of maintaining a medical certificate and flight privileges - especially if professional medical or psychological help is needed. When facing tough issues, with uncertainty as to what to do, seeing your AME can be a good first step. Reaching out for advice on difficult issues such as stress, anxiousness, low mood, and grief can help the pilot find perspective - and assistance, if needed, to improve the situation and release bottled-up pressures. You are not alone. Despite the natural fears of not being able to fly most situations do not need the pilot to ground. Those that do require time out of the air tend to be shorter term and NOT long term or permanent grounding. If mental health fitness is best achieved by medication, as in some cases of depression and anxiety, following FAA regulations affords the pilot a pathway to successful resumption of flight. Ensuring your mental health is crucial. Even if there are more significant symptoms where you need to work through issues before resuming flight the improvement in how you feel and the long-term success that improvement provides will be worth the effort. 2.9.2 Mental Wellness Resources • Aerospace Student Wellness Coordinator o Harley Waters o Harley.Waters@mtsu.edu o 434-942-9447 • MTSU Student Health Services o 615-898-2988 o 3 AMEs on staff can help pilots decide what path and options are available to them, both on and off campus. M-3 Operations Manual Middle Tennessee State University 2-8 Revision ORIGINAL – Revised 5/20/2024 • MTSU Counseling Services o 615-898-2670 o Licensed mental health professionals available for short-term counseling needs and psychiatric services. • MTSU Center for Counseling and Psychological Services o 615-898-2271 o Training program with counseling sessions for individuals and families • MTSU Veteran Personal Well-Being Services o 615-904-8347 pr 615-898-1927 M-3 Operations Manual Middle Tennessee State University 3-1 Revision ORIGINAL – Revised 5/20/2024 3. Flight Lab Policies 3.1 Flight Labs Information related to the flight lab award process and requirements can be found in the MTSU Flight Lab Guide. Please see the latest version of the guide on the department webpage: www.mtsu.edu/aerospace/ Each flight lab is intended to be completed during a single semester. Due to the nature of flight training, this can be very challenging. Students must contend with scheduling conflicts, weather, aircraft availability, etc. As such, unlike other university courses there is no guarantee that a student will finish during the semester’s predetermined period. Many students will decide to stay beyond the dates for the given semester to complete their lab. Because flight training takes proficiency, delays in training can cause unnecessary increases in costs. Students are strongly encouraged to not set constraints (i.e., family vacations) immediately following the semester until their lab is complete. 3.2 Flight Lab Funding All flight labs must be fully funded by the semester funding deadline to retain an awarded flight lab. See the Flight Lab Guide for more details. Students must maintain a $500 minimum in their flight lab account to be dispatched for a ground or flight reservation. A student’s balance can be found in Flight Schedule Pro. 3.2.1 Flight Lab Refunds Refunds may be issued once the checkride or course is complete. Many students choose to leave any remaining funding in their account and simply increase their balance to the minimum needed for future labs. Students should contact flightlab@mtsu.edu to initiate a refund. If a deposit was made with a credit card, the refund will be applied back to the credit card. Payments made by check, cash or with a credit card over six months ago will be returned via direct deposit or by check. Any outstanding balances will be deducted before a refund is processed. Refunds usually take seven to ten business days to process. 3.3 Flight Lab Withdrawals Students may withdraw from a lab via Pipeline up until the withdrawal deadline. Before students withdraw from a course, they should go to MTOneStop to discuss how this will affect financial aid, housing, progress towards graduation, and other issues. If a student decides to withdraw beyond the withdrawal deadline, a grade will be awarded. Incomplete students that withdraw will earn an “F” or “FA” in the course depending on the last day of the attendance. 3.4 Incomplete Flight Labs 3.4.1 Incomplete Flight Lab Grades Students who do not complete their flight lab by the end of the semester will be given an incomplete “I” for their grade. These students will have one additional semester to complete the course. Students do M-3 Operations Manual Middle Tennessee State University 3-2 Revision ORIGINAL – Revised 5/20/2024 not need to register again for the course in the subsequent semester, but the normal attendance policies will apply. The student’s grade will be changed to an “A” once the checkride, or lab if a checkride is not required, is complete. Incomplete students enrolled in a spring semester may elect to return in the summer or the fall semester. Students who complete any training after the first day of Summer semester are considered summer students. If a student does not complete the checkride or lab by the end of the incomplete deadline in the second semester, the student will earn an “F” for the course. Once the student has earned an “F,” the student will need to register in a subsequent semester to complete their training, including the checkride. 3.4.2 Incomplete Flight Lab Funding Incomplete labs may require additional funding if more than the expected training is needed or the initial fees are exhausted. If additional financial aid is needed or sought, please contact the FlightLab@mtsu.edu to have your additional need calculated and supplied to the financial aid office. Receiving an incomplete grade in a flight lab could prevent student financial aid from processing for other university courses during the subsequent semester until the incomplete flight lab is completed with a grade. If student financial aid is impacted, contact FlightLab@mtsu.edu for additional assistance. Students should contact the MT One Stop as soon as their grade is changed to see if they need to submit additional paperwork for their financial aid to process. 3.4.3 Individualized Education Plans Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) are required for any student who receives an incomplete grade in a flight lab. An IEP is a two-week training plan developed by the flight instructor in consultation with the student that is submitted to that instructor’s supervising instructor. An updated IEP will be completed and submitted to the supervising instructor every two weeks as long as the student is enrolled in the lab. 3.5 Failed Flight Labs 3.5.1 Failed Flight Lab Grade If a student does not complete the required checkride (or all required lessons in the TCO if a checkride is not required for the course) by the incomplete deadline, the student will earn an “F” for the course. Once the student has earned an “F,” the student must cease training and re-register for the course in a subsequent semester to complete their training, including the checkride. If a checkride has been attempted before the incomplete deadline, but has resulted in a discontinuance or failure, they will also receive an “F” for the course. These students will not be required to re-register for a subsequent semester, and may continue in the lab until the successful completion of the checkride. Upon completion of the checkride the grade will be changed from “F” to “A”. The GPA impact of receiving an “F” in any course may be negated by registering for that course again and successfully completing it. While that original course grade will remain on a transcript, once the course is M-3 Operations Manual Middle Tennessee State University 3-3 Revision ORIGINAL – Revised 5/20/2024 completed with an “A” in a subsequent semester, that “A” will replace the “F” in GPA calculations. Please see the Undergraduate Catalog for more details. 3.5.2 Re-Registration of a Failed Flight Lab Students who have failed a flight lab course due to attendance or failure to complete the course within two semesters, must immediately cease flight training and apply to re-register for the course in a subsequent semester. Students will not be allowed to register for a flight lab for a third time without approval from their advisor and flight school management. If a student re-registers within three semesters, they will not be required to complete the entire lab again. These students will only be required to complete the remaining lessons and any additional review required. The attendance policy and required student meetings for the subsequent semester will apply. If a student fails to re-register within three semesters, they will be required to complete the entire lab again. Re-registering students: 1. Need to submit a lab request for the semester they wish to return. Late lab requests will be considered in accordance with the policies in the Flight Lab Guide. 2. May be required to attend an incomplete review board to be considered for a flight lab award. Students will be readmitted on a space-available basis. 3. Will be issued a registration permit and will be required to register for the course by the applicable semester registration and retention deadline. 4. Will receive a cost estimate for the remaining lessons and additional review. This estimated amount must be deposited in the student’s FSP account by the applicable semester funding deadline. 5. Are expected to begin training at the start of the semester, complete an individualized education plan with their flight instructor, and will be held to the semester attendance policy. 3.6 Removal From Flight Status The following situations may result in removal from flight status for students: (A) Financial: When flight lab account balance falls below $500 minimum. Students are permitted two weeks to fund above the minimum amount without receiving absences. (B) Flight Operations: An involuntary grounding because of an apparent violation of MTSU policy/procedure or FAA regulation, or involvement in a flight operations incident/accident involving damage or injury to persons or property. (C) TSA: A lack of TSA documentation necessary for flight training. In this instance, ground training may be conducted in consultation with a training manager. (D) Excessive Failures: If a student fails the same portion of a stage check or checkride (oral or flight) twice, training will be suspended until a meeting with an appropriate training manager and develop a plan of action. (E) Excessive Absences: Excessive absences will result in failure of the flight lab (see attendance policy) and removal from active flight training. (F) Other issues as deemed appropriate by flight school management. When a student is removed from flight status, all current and future reservations will be removed. M-3 Operations Manual Middle Tennessee State University 3-4 Revision ORIGINAL – Revised 5/20/2024 3.6.1 Medically Disqualifying Events Any person operating an MTSU aircraft must have a current and valid FAA medical certificate. (A) Pilots who become aware of medical conditions that may restrict or prohibit the exercise of their medical certificate according to 14 CFR Part 61.53 are required to report that condition to an Aviation Medical Examiner (AME) for proper assessment. (B) Pilots are not permitted to operate an MTSU aircraft with any disqualifying medical condition, in accordance with 14 CFR Part 61.53. (C) Instructors are required to report if they are experiencing a medically disqualifying condition to their supervising instructor or any training manager, and work with Flight School Management on a return to service plan. (D) Students are required to report if they are experiencing a medically disqualifying condition to their primary instructor or to any training manager, and work with Flight School Management on a return to service plan. (E) Pilots are not required nor requested to report medical records or details to MTSU, however they must be prepared to show proof of medical qualification before being permitted to return to active flight status. 3.7 Adequate Progress Adequate progress in a flight lab refers to a student’s steady and timely progression towards the appropriate course or FAA testing standards, including completing flight and ground testing and completion of the course within a reasonable standard of time. 3.7.1 Steady Progression Steady progression means regularly meeting and engaging with flight training, including meeting attendance requirements, completing sequential lessons towards course completion, and demonstrating continuous improvement and meeting lesson completion standards. 3.7.2 Timely Progression Ground and flight tests are a regular part of flight training and the aviation industry. Students are expected to complete stage checks within 2 attempts of the ground and 2 attempts of the flight. Additionally, students are expected to complete FAA checkrides and FAA knowledge tests within 2 attempts. 3.7.3 Failure to Maintain Adequate Progress Students will be held to the adequate progress standards. Failure to meet them will usually result in training interventions, plans of actions, and resource allocation to provide the student the chance to succeed. Failure to maintain adequate progress after these opportunities will often result in a flight review board. M-3 Operations Manual Middle Tennessee State University 4-5 Revision ORIGINAL – Revised 5/20/2024 3.8 Flight Review Boards Termination from flight training at MTSU is a serious situation that may only be handled by a Flight Review Board. A Flight Review Board looks at a student's entire situation to determine a best course of action. 3.8.1 Flight Review Board Process A Flight Review Board may be initiated for a student in the Professional Pilot concentration for a number of reasons at the discretion of the appropriate training course Chief Instructor. The appropriate Chief will then chair the Flight Review Board. Once initiated, the student will be informed and a Flight Review Board hearing will be scheduled with a planned quorum of members. The hearing is an opportunity for the student to represent themselves to the Board and discuss their training, challenges, and options moving forward. Flight Review Board members will review training records, statements from instructors, and may have the opportunity to interview appropriate participants in the student’s training such as flight and stage check instructors. This will occur before the student hearing. Following the student hearing the Flight Review Board will deliberate to determine the next course of action. This may include returning to normal flight status with no new plan of action, implementation of a specialized plan of action, or permanent discontinuance of flight training at MTSU. Flight Review Board Decisions are final and may not be appealed. The student will be informed of Board decisions by the Board chair via email. 3.8.2 Flight Review Board Members The Flight Review Board may be comprised of members of the following groups. A quorum of at least 3 members is required to hold a Flight Review Board hearing and make a decision. Board members shall be selected to be most appropriate to the situation and student being discussed. A. Chief Instructor of the training course (Part 61 or Part 141) B. Director of Aerospace Airport Operations C. Student Services Manager D. Professional Pilot Faculty E. Aerospace Advising F. Aerospace Safety G. MTSU International Office H. Quality Manager I. Assistant Flight Training Managers (understudy) 4. Training Course Policies 4.1 Student Enrollment Before a student can fly in an MTSU aircraft the student must meet the requirements set forth by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). M-3 Operations Manual Middle Tennessee State University 4-2 Revision ORIGINAL – Revised 5/20/2024 4.1.1 New Student Enrollment Students must present all required personal documents to their flight instructor during their first day paperwork meeting. These documents include: • Original birth certificate and valid, unexpired Driver’s License, or unexpired Passport/Visa • FAA Medical Certificate • FAA Pilot Certificate (if applicable). If the student does not have a pilot certificate, they must apply for a student pilot certificate during the first day paperwork with their flight instructor. o Students must not use their social security number when applying for pilot certificates. New students are expected to have all required flight lab materials by the end of the first week of the semester. Please reference the appropriate Appendix in this manual for the list of required materials. 4.1.2 Returning Student Enrollment Students who are incomplete from a previous semester or have re-registered do not need to complete the first day paperwork with their instructor. 4.1.3 Updated Personal Documents Students who receive updated personal documents are required to present them to their flight instructor. Students are responsible for ensuring that the MTSU Flight School has copies of all current personal documents. 4.1.4 Stagger Starts Students in certain courses may be placed at different start dates through the semester to maximize instructor and aircraft utilization. These start dates can be found on Flight Schedule Pro as the listed course enrollment date. These students will still complete the first day paperwork during the first week of the semester, but will not be permitted to conduct any other reservations without approval from the applicable Chief of the course. 4.2 Credit for Previous Flight Experience Students may not use previous flight training experience for credit in a MTSU Flight Lab. 4.3 Student Training Records With FAA approval, student training records are maintained electronically on Flight Schedule Pro. Additional training records are maintained in the training records room at the Jean A. Jack Flight Education Center. Records access, electronic or physical, is limited to the individual student, flight instructors, management personnel, FAA inspectors, and TSA inspectors. 4.4 Student Names for FAA Applications and Testing Full legal names must match government issued photo identifications, medicals, certificates, and applications for knowledge or practical tests. If there are discrepancies between any of these, a student may not be allowed to participate in the FAA examination. M-3 Operations Manual Middle Tennessee State University 4-3 Revision ORIGINAL – Revised 5/20/2024 4.5 Name Corrections on Personal Documents During first day paperwork, instructors must ensure that names on these documents match. Extra care should be taken when processing a new student pilot certificate on IACRA. Some common mistakes are listed below. • Not including multiple middle names: Many international students will have more than three names. Ex: First Name, Father’s Name, Grandfather’s Name, and Family Name. In this circumstance, include the first initial of the first middle name separated by a space. • Not including suffixes such as “Jr.” or “III.” • Using documents other than the passport/birth certificate for the name. Ex: Driver’s license does not include a middle name, but the passport does. If there is a mismatch on any of these documents, below are the following steps to correct those issues. [Note: This is the process for a name correction, not a name change. For a name change on either the pilot certificate or medical, please contact either the Nashville FSDO (+1-615-324-1300) or the Aerospace Medical Certification Division (+1-405-954-4821) respectively. Do not directly contact specific FAA representatives at the FSDO unless specified to do so.] • Pilot Certificate o If the checkride is more than one month away: Send a copy of their passport and a signed letter asking for the name correction to the following address:  FAA Airmen Certification Branch  AFB-720 PO Box 25082  Oklahoma City, OK 73125  Phone: +1-866-878-2498 o If the checkride is less than one month away: Notify your DPE of the discrepancy. The Airmen Registry can make a name correction on the pilot certificate if the 8710 is submitted with documentation of the correct name, but only at the DPE’s discretion. • Medical: Fax a copy of the medical, passport/birth certificate, and a letter stating “please correct my name to match my passport” to +1-405-954-4040, ATTN: Tyler. This is the Aerospace Medical Certification Division in OKC. Their phone number if you have questions is +1-405-954-3238. • State-issued Photo ID: Students will need to contact their local DMV about appropriate procedure. For Rutherford County, they need to bring their passport or birth certificate to the local DMV. o Murfreesboro Driver Services Center o 1035 Samsonite Blvd. o Murfreesboro, TN 37129 o Phone: +1-866-849-3548 4.6 Flight Instructor Concerns Students should first attempt to communicate any concerns they may have about their flight training to their assigned instructor. If they are not satisfied with the outcome, the next step is to schedule a meeting with the appropriate Flight Training Manager. Generally, after such a meeting there will be clear direction for a remedial period where the instructor and student work together to ensure cooperation. Changing to another instructor is not typical and is considered a last resort after other actions have been attempted. M-3 Operations Manual Middle Tennessee State University 4-4 Revision ORIGINAL – Revised 5/20/2024 4.7 PlaneEnglish Training Modules Students in the Private and Instrument training labs are required to complete the PlaneEnglish air traffic control modules during the semester. Private lab students will complete the VFR Training Module, and Instrument lab students will complete the IFR training module. Each module contains 4 stages that must be completed throughout the semester. The first 2 stages will be completed by the midsemester meeting, with the remaining 2 stages will be completed before the end of the semester. The most recent version of the Attendance Policy should be referenced for the attendance requirements. Students will only have access to the training module for their first semester enrolled in a lab. 4.8 Stage Checks 4.8.1 Part 141 Stage Check Scheduling After the last lesson prior to a stage check is completed, the instructor shall complete the online stage check submission form and submit the student’s folder to flight records. The instructor must make sure all lessons have been completed, signed, and billed. Once the student’s folder has been checked and verified by flight records, the student will be assigned a check instructor who will administer the stage check. As part of the stage check scheduling process the student’s hours in that stage are assessed against the curriculum minimums. Flight Training Management is alerted to students who exceed 25% or 50% of the stage hours. These students may be required to meet with a training manager to discuss their challenges in meeting the flight training requirements as well as discuss funding plans of action. A student who exceeds the training hours in a course stage can expect to require additional funding to complete the course. 4.8.2 Flight Lab Hours Guide To ensure a student meets the training hours requirements of a course, Flight Lab Hour Guides have been created with the minimum times required to be submitted for an end of course check. This guide can be found at the Flight School and in the ForeFlight documents. Students who do not meet these hour requirements will need to repeat lessons until the hours are met. Flight time within 0.2 can be discussed with the Part 141 Chief Instructor. 4.8.3 Part 61 End of Course Scheduling Once a Part 61 student has completed the final lesson before the EOC, the CFI should send an email to the Part 61 Chief Flight Instructor with the following information: • The student’s name • The planned date of the EOC • The name of the stage check instructor • The planned date of the checkride (if scheduled) • The name of the Designated Pilot Examiner M-3 Operations Manual Middle Tennessee State University 4-5 Revision ORIGINAL – Revised 5/20/2024 After the email is received, the Part 61 Chief Flight Instructor will verify that the student is ready, and either approve the plan of action or work with the student and instructor to produce a new plan. If the crew is having trouble finding a stage check instructor or a checkride, they shall notify the Part 61 Chief Flight Instructor. 4.8.4 Credit for Incomplete or Unsatisfactory Stage Checks Credit for an incomplete or unsatisfactory stage checks may be used for up to 30 days after the initial attempt. For example: if the ground portion was completed March 1, credit for the ground would be invalid after 30 days (March 31), thus requiring the ground portion to be completed again in its entirety, followed by the flight portion. 4.8.5 Unsatisfactory Performance on Stage Checks If a student fails a stage check, the flight instructor shall provide and log additional ground or flight training in the deficient areas. After the student has received this training, the stage check may be rescheduled with the stage check instructor. Following a second ground failure or second flight failure of any stage check, the student will be required to meet with a training manager before reattempting the stage check. 4.8.6 Stage Check Plan of Actions All check instructors should utilize a plan of action in compliance with the training course outline. Part 141 has POA forms that must be used and uploaded to Flight Schedule Pro under the Exams section for each stage check attempt. 4.8.7 Stage Check Concerns or Appeals If a student feels their stage check was done incorrectly or has concerns, they should contact the appropriate Flight Training Manager. 4.9 FAA Knowledge Tests Students are required to complete the necessary knowledge test before submission for the end of course check. Instructors may provide this endorsement upon successful completion of the appropriate training. Copies must be uploaded to Flight Schedule Pro under Exams. 4.10 Course Graduation Upon successful completion of an EOC, the student’s flight instructor must complete the following steps: (A) Submit the student for graduation in Flight Schedule Pro. (B) Print a graduation certificate and submit it along with the student’s training folder to flight records. (C) Review the MTSU Practical Test Checklist. (D) Submit the student on the Checkride Standby List, if using the centralized checkride management system. M-3 Operations Manual Middle Tennessee State University 4-6 Revision ORIGINAL – Revised 5/20/2024 4.11 Integrated Airmen Certification and Rating Applications (IACRA) MTSU utilizes the online IACRA system for certificate and rating applications. Students are required to setup an account and maintain access to it during flight training. Students and instructors are required to verify the information in an application is correct and accurate. IACRA applications should be completed as soon as a students EOC is complete. Additional flight experience gained after completing the application is not required to be entered in the flight experience. In case of a planned or unplanned IACRA outage, the flight instructor should communicate with the Designated Pilot Examiner to determine if a paper application can be utilized. Failure to complete the IACRA application can result in not being assigned a checkride or having a checkride canceled by a Designated Pilot Examiner. 4.11.1 Curriculum Association Part 141 certificate and rating applications require association by a flight school administrator. The Part 141 Chief Instructor is the primary flight school administrator. Once a student has submitted their application the Flight Instructor will notify the administrator the application is ready and provide the student’s name, FTN number, and graduation date. Once the application has been associated to the correct curriculum the instructor must complete the recommending instructor signatures. 4.11.2 Use of Social Security Numbers The MTSU Flight School is not required or permitted to hold student social security number information. Students and instructors will ensure that social security numbers are not present on IACRA applications by using the “DO NOT USE” or “NONE” options as appropriate. 4.12 FAA Practical Tests All practical tests conducted for the completion of an MTSU flight lab must be completed in an aircraft operated by MTSU. A CFI should be present at the beginning of each practical test to ensure that the test begins without issue. In the case of a practical test away from KMBT, students will pay for the flight to and from the testing airport, and an administration fee for the flight instructor’s time. 4.12.1 FAA Practical Test Scheduling MTSU Flight School utilizes a centralized checkride management system. This ensures fair opportunity for students who require flight testing. This process is overseen by the Part 141 Chief Instructor who manages the Checkride Coordinator. 1. Once a student has completed their end of course check the student is eligible for an FAA Practical Test. In order to be placed on the waitlist the students instructor must complete the course graduation process, submit the IACRA information for association, and submit the Checkride Standby form, linked in Flight Schedule Pro. 2. Students are scheduled for practical tests based on end of course date and submission to the standby list date. M-3 Operations Manual Middle Tennessee State University 4-7 Revision ORIGINAL – Revised 5/20/2024 3. Checkrides are generally confirmed 7 days prior to the flight test. 4. Weather, illness, or other cancelations must be reported to the Checkride Coordinator. They will be rescheduled at the earliest opportunity. 5. Students have the right to refuse a checkride opportunity, however this can greatly impact their ability to complete a timely flight test. Students may opt out of utilizing the Checkride Management system in favor of a Designated Pilot Examiner outside the system. All communication and organization of a checkride outside of the checkride management system is the responsibility of the Primary Instructor. A list of approved DPEs is available via link on Flight Schedule Pro. To utilize a DPE outside of this list a request must be made in writing to the appropriate Chief Instructor. 4.12.2 FAA Practical Test Paperwork If a checkride results in a discontinuance, unsatisfactory, or satisfactory result, the Checkride Form (F-21) needs to be completed by the flight instructor who accompanied the student to the checkride, whether it took place at MTSU or at another location. Submit all checkride paperwork, the checkride form, and the student’s folder to the submission box in the record’s room at the Jean A. Jack Flight Education Center. 4.12.3 FAA Practical Test Ferry Policy Instructors are responsible for conducting checkride management, including ferry to and from flights, with their students. Ferry flights without a student’s primary instructor should only exist if the checkride is a double ferry or the primary instructor has a time conflict. To accept and schedule a Checkride Ferry flight for a student for whom that instructor is not the primary instructor, the instructor must hold a CFII certificate and have current instrument recency of flight experience. The only exception to this is for instructors to ferry their own student in forecast VMC conditions. Instructors should plan to maintain instrument currency to account for unforecast IFR conditions. A non-CFII instructor shall not depart in IMC conditions for a checkride. An exception for this can only be provided by instructor on call and FTM approval. In all situations the instructor completing the checkride ferry is responsible for all checkride paperwork. Details can be found on the current revision of the MTSU Practical Test Checklist. Multi-engine checkrides may only be managed by an MEI instructor. If a student elects to drive to a practical test to begin the ground and requests an aircraft be brought later the student will be charged for the flights to and from the location and flight instructor time for the relocation. M-3 Operations Manual Middle Tennessee State University 5-8 Revision ORIGINAL – Revised 5/20/2024 4.13 Consensual Relationships The MTSU Flight School shall operate in compliance with MTSU Policy 817, Consensual Relationships, available at https://www.mtsu.edu/policies/personnel/817.php. This policy applies to all employees of the MTSU Flight School involved in relationships with other staff or students. All employees of MTSU, including the Flight School, serve the interests of the State of Tennessee and its citizens, and have a duty to avoid activities and situations that, either actually or potentially, put personal interests ahead of their professional obligations. In compliance with MTSU Policy 817, the following definitions apply to Flight School employees: Conflict of Interest: A conflict of interest occurs when the personal interests of a person who owes a duty to MTSU actually, or potentially, diverge from the person’s professional obligations to, and the best interests of, MTSU. Consensual Relationship: A romantic relationship and/or sexual interaction agreed to by the involved parties. A conflict of interest exists if a person who conducts flight training or evaluates students at the MTSU Flight school (including faculty, staff, training managers, check instructors, team and quality leads, and flight instructors) is engaged in a consensual relationship with a student or employee over whom they have grading, supervisory, or evaluative authority. An instructor or employee may not conduct evaluation, supervision, or training with a student or other employee with whom they have a consensual relationship. The Director of Aerospace Airport Operations is responsible for promptly addressing any reported conflicts of interest at the Flight School. Employees are responsible for preventing conflicts of interest by asking for student/subordinate reassignment or terminating the relationship. Additionally, instructors involved in a consensual relationship shall avoid conducting proficiency and currency flights together. Instructors and other flight school employees who are found to violate this policy may face disciplinary action. 4.14 Completing Flight Labs Without Checkrides Two Part 61 flight labs do not require checkrides, Cross-Country and Tailwheel. Once the course has been completed, please complete the F-23 Tailwheel/Cross-Country Lab Completion Form. Upon completion of the form and submission of the folder to records, the course will be considered completed. 5. Airport Operations 5.1 Ramp Safety Ramp areas can be dangerous areas for anyone to walk on due to aircraft taxiing, refueling operations, and maintenance tractors and vehicles. It is imperative that all students and instructors be vigilant about their surroundings due to the hazards present on the ramp. M-3 Operations Manual Middle Tennessee State University 5-2 Revision ORIGINAL – Revised 5/20/2024 Access to the MTSU ramp area is limited to the students that are currently enrolled into the flight lab, flight instructors, and any administrative personnel who are employed by MTSU. Any person wanting access to the ramp must be escorted onto the ramp by either a MTSU Ground Operations worker, staff member, or a flight instructor. Any suspicious activity on the MTSU ramp should be reported to the Ground Operations desk or management personnel. 5.2 Personnel Identification All students, faculty, and staff are required to prominently display (at/above the waist and on the outermost garment) an MTSU-issued photo identification badge (BlueID) anytime they are in MTSU owned/leased facilities at the airport, on the airport ramp, or in an MTSU aircraft. Students who do not currently possess a physical BlueID will need to obtain one from the ID Office located in SSAC Room 112. Students may also obtain an ID badge via the following website: https://www.mtsu.edu/itd/blueid.php. Beyond the first week of the semester, a student without an appropriate ID will receive an unprepared absence and will not be allowed to complete their lesson. All individuals visiting MTSU airport facilities who have a need for unescorted access must check in at the Ground Operations desk upon arrival to be issued temporary “Visitor” badge(s). Badges shall be prominently displayed throughout the entire visit and returned to the Ground Operations desk upon departure. Visitors who will be escorted (i.e. tour groups) while at MTSU airport facilities must remain under direct control of their escort at all times. Contractors who routinely perform duties at MTSU airport facilities (i.e. custodial workers) will be issued badges. All other contractors will follow the procedures for visitors. 5.3 Student Dress Code Any student at the Flight School is required to wear closed-toed shoes. This includes flight, ground, and simulator training events. Students should consider the professionalism of their attire and personal upkeep. This includes consideration of weather conditions, personal hygiene, and appropriate symbols and words on clothing worn. Failure to comply may result in the issuance of absences. 5.3.1 Flight and Ground Testing Attire Students are encouraged and expected to dress in business casual for all testing including FAA practical tests and stage checks. 5.3.2 Winter Weather During operations where temperatures are below 40°F pants must be worn. Coat, hat, and gloves must be worn or stored in the aircraft. M-3 Operations Manual Middle Tennessee State University 5-3 Revision ORIGINAL – Revised 5/20/2024 5.4 Smoking, Vaping, and Tobacco Products Smoking or the consumption of any tobacco product is not permitted on any MTSU owned or leased property, including all grounds, vehicles, and buildings. This includes MTSU aircraft and anywhere in the flight operations area. This applies to all forms of tobacco products, including but not limited to cigarettes, pipes, cigars, chewing tobacco, snuff, electronic cigarettes and vapes. Vaping of any kind is not permitted in an MTSU aircraft or building. 5.5 Lost and Found A lost and found is in the dispatch area. If an item is found or lost, check with Ground Operations to turn in or to retrieve said item. There is no guarantee to how long these items will be kept at Ground Operations. 5.6 First Solo Traditions One significant milestone for all private flight lab students is the initial solo flight. After this initial solo flight, the flight school has several traditions to celebrate this achievement: • Solo Bell: Students are encouraged to ring the “First Solo” bell in the hallway of the Flight Education Center. • Shirt Tail: Students are encouraged to bring a shirt that they are willing to have cut. The instructor will cut the shirt tail as a memento for the student. Students are encouraged to wear an undershirt or change before having the shirt cut. • Social Media: Students and instructors are encouraged to send photos and videos of these traditions to aerospace@mtsu.edu for the department social media pages. • Solo Certificate: Instructors will complete a “First Solo Certificate” for all students who complete their first solo. After being signed for the Chief Flight Instructor and displayed next to the “First Solo” bell, students can take this certificate home as another memento of the event. 5.7 Designated Runup Areas Flight crews must taxi the aircraft to a designated area to complete runups. When exiting the runup area, the aircraft should be configured for takeoff. Flight crews should make every effort to allow enough room for other aircraft to enter the runup area and ensure the aircraft propwash is not striking other aircraft or personnel. 5.8 Takeoffs and Landings 5.8.1 Paved Runways Takeoff and Landing Distances • Single-Engine Aircraft: The usable runway must be 2,500’ long or 2.5 times the calculated takeoff ground roll, whichever is greater. • Multi-Engine Aircraft: The usable runway must be 3,000’ long or 1.5 times the accelerated-stop distance, whichever is greater. • Touch-and-Go/Stop-and-Go Landings: Are not permitted unless the aircraft will become airborne with at least 1,500’ of runway length remaining. M-3 Operations Manual Middle Tennessee State University 5-4 Revision ORIGINAL – Revised 5/20/2024 5.8.2 Intersection Departures Intersection departures are only authorized if able to meet required takeoff distances requirements from the intersection. 5.8.3 Unpaved Runways Unpaved runway use is permitted only with the approval of the appropriate flight training manager. 5.8.4 (RESERVED) Piper Cub Operations 5.8.5 Line Up and Wait Line Up and Wait procedures are prohibited at non-towered airports. These operations can only be safely performed at an airport with an operating control tower when instructed by Air Traffic Control. 5.8.6 Land and Hold Short Operations (LAHSO) Land and Hold Short Operations (LAHSO) and Special VFR operations are prohibited while soloing an MTSU aircraft. 5.9 Traffic Pattern Operations 5.9.1 Extending Downwind When traffic is waiting at the hold short for departure, extending the downwind is recommended. Pilots should also consider exiting and rejoining the pattern. 360⁰ turns for spacing in the pattern are only permitted at a towered airport. 5.9.2 Departure Procedures Downwind departure procedures are not encouraged at non-towered airports. The local departure procedures including noise abatement procedures should be followed. 5.9.3 Changing Runways Due to Wind At non-towered airports, flight crews are encouraged to communicate with other pilots to determine the runway in use and exit the pattern to rejoin if a runway change is required. 5.10 MBT Specific Operations 5.10.1 MBT Runup Areas MBT has three runup areas. MTSU aircraft should utilize the north and south runup areas. If both are full, MTSU aircraft may utilize the T-hangar runup area. Runups shall not be completed on a taxiway or holding short of the runway. 5.10.2 MBT Traffic Pattern Curfew No traffic pattern operations, including touch-and-goes, stop-and-goes, low approaches, nor full stop taxi-backs are allowed before 7am or after 10pm weekdays and before 8am or after 10pm Sat/Sun/Holidays at KMBT. Modified night hours during the summer months will be posted and announced. M-3 Operations Manual Middle Tennessee State University 5-5 Revision ORIGINAL – Revised 5/20/2024 5.10.3 MBT Traffic Pattern Entry Crossing mid-field above pattern altitude at KMBT is prohibited due to arrival traffic into KMQY. 5.10.4 MBT Departure and Arrival Procedures MTSU has departure and arrival procedures for MBT that comply with local noise abatement procedures. Please refer to the most current version of these documents on the MTSU ForeFlight drive. 5.10.5 MBT Practice Instrument Approaches Opposite traffic practice approaches at KMBT are prohibited. Opposite traffic or circling practice approaches may be conducted at other non-towered airports or at towered airports with approved procedures and with proper clearance. Use caution to enter the flow of traffic in accordance with the guidance in the AIM. 5.10.6 MBT Parking Procedures • Designated Parking: MTSU aircraft have designated parking places. Please refer to the most current version of the parking map on the MTSU ForeFlight drive. • Turning: Pilots should never turn toward the parking space to minimize the distances needed to push the aircraft back. Turning toward the parking space risks impacting the wingtip with other parked aircraft. • Row 2: Aircraft parking in Row 2 at MBT must shut down abeam their designated parking spot. Aircraft are not permitted to turn in Row 2 prior to parking. • Solo Students: Solo students should contact Ground Operations for assistance in pushing aircraft into designated parking spaces. 5.10.7 Stadium Temporary Flight Restrictions MTSU’s Floyd Stadium, the football stadium located on campus, meets the threshold to require a Stadium TFR during home games. This TFR extends 3 nautical miles from the center of the stadium up to an altitude of 3000 feet above ground level. The TFR will be active from 1 hour before the game until 1 hour after the game ends. Prior to departure or arrival at MBT during a Stadium TFR the pilot in command must contact Nashville Air Traffic Control. During active TFRs traffic pattern work and multiple IFR approaches are not permitted. 5.11 (RESERVED) SYI Specific Operations M-3 Operations Manual Middle Tennessee State University 6-1 Revision ORIGINAL – Revised 5/20/2024 6. Aircraft Operations 6.1 Pilot in Command Responsibility (PIC) The pilot in command is directly responsible for and is the final authority as to the operation of the aircraft and overall safety of the flight. During dual flights, the flight instructor is pilot in command. For all solo flights, the student is the pilot in command. 6.2 Aircraft Fueling and Fuel Trucks 6.2.1 Aircraft Fueling MTSU aircraft may not be fueled with the engine operating. It is the PIC’s responsibility to determine that the aircraft has the required fuel for the desired flight. If the aircraft needs fuel, contact Ground Operations or coordinate with line service personnel on the ramp for fuel. In the event fueling is not available from MTSU fuel trucks, instructors and students will use the airport self-service fuel stations. • The PIC will ensure that the aircraft is parked safely, wire grounded, and fueled correctly. • Under no circumstances is an aircraft to be left unattended at a fuel pump. 6.2.2 Fuel Trucks Only trained and authorized Ground Operations personnel may operate MTSU fuel trucks. 6.2.3 Fuel Cards It is the pilot in command’s responsibility to obtain and return the fuel card should the flight require fueling away from the home airport. MTSU fuel cards are in aircraft tins. If a fuel card is missing, it should be reported to Ground Operations for a replacement. Fuel receipts must be turned into Ground Operations. If the flight crew pays for fuel personally, fueling reimbursement can be completed by providing the original fuel receipt to management. Without the original receipt, no reimbursement will be made. The receipt should be turned into Ground Operations with a copy of the credit card with all but the last four digits blacked out. The owner’s 6.3 Approved Airports A list of airports approved to conduct training is maintained by the Flight Training Managers and available on Foreflight and in the FEC Lobby. Only flights to approved airports are allowed unless approved by a Flight Training Manager. 6.4 Use of MTSU Aircraft Use of MTSU aircraft is primarily for students to complete required academic course work. They may also be used for university outreach events and special events as approved by the Director of Aerospace Airport Operations. Students may only rent MTSU aircraft to complete a lesson in a syllabus or complete a practical exam. Students may not rent aircraft outside of these events, except for approved graduation flights. M-3 Operations Manual Middle Tennessee State University 6-2 Revision ORIGINAL – Revised 5/20/2024 All training requirements for an academic course must be completed in an aircraft operated by MTSU. 6.5 Flight Simulators This section does apply to any turbine-engine simulators. Please refer to the appropriate MTSU guidelines for turbine-engine simulators. 6.5.1 Flight Simulators Care No food or beverage may be consumed inside the simulators, including water. Discard any trash left in the sim. Any issues with the simulator should be reported to Ground Operations. 6.5.2 Flight Simulator Use Use of MTSU flight simulators is primarily for students to complete required academic coursework. They may also be used for outreach events and special events as approved by the Director of Aerospace Airport Operations. MTSU Flight simulators will only be used under the supervision of a MTSU flight instructor and students are required to complete a simulator preflight worksheet before use. 6.6 Passengers and Observers 6.6.1 Passenger Requirements Passengers are permitted on flights that do not conduct maneuvers. Passengers must be MTSU students, staff, or faculty. The instructor has the final authority and responsibility for any passengers onboard flights. The instructor on duty must approve all passengers onboard any training flights and must be listed with an emergency contact in the reservation notes. Any exception to this policy must be approved by the Director of Aerospace Airport Operations. 6.6.2 Lesson Observer Requirements Observers are passengers that ar