Interagency Aerial Supervision Guide

Air Tactical Supervisor Coach .................................................................................................. 35 Air Tactical Supervisor Evaluator ............................................................................................. 36 ASM -Evaluator Workshop ....................................................................................................... 36 Air Tactical Supervisor Final Evaluator.................................................................................... 37 ASM- Final Evaluator Workshop ............................................................................................. 38 Air Tactical Pilot Evaluator....................................................................................................... 38 Air Tactical Pilot Final Evaluator ............................................................................................. 39 Chapter 3 – Policies, Regulations, and Guidelines ................................................................... 41 Retardant Operations and Low Light Conditions (Sunrise/Sunset) .......................................... 41 Foreign Government Aircraft on United States Incidents ......................................................... 43 Flight Condition Guidelines ...................................................................................................... 43 Air Attack Pilot Policy .............................................................................................................. 44 Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Policy ............................................................................ 45 Oxygen Requirements ............................................................................................................... 45 Day/Night Flight Policy ............................................................................................................ 46 Flight Crew Duty Day and Flight Hour Policy ......................................................................... 46 IASG 2017 Table of Contents Page vi Avionics Standards .................................................................................................................... 47 Communications Guidelines ..................................................................................................... 48 Airspace Policy ......................................................................................................................... 51 Chapter 4 – Incident Aircraft..................................................................................................... 57 Very Large Airtankers (VLAT) ................................................................................................ 57 Large Airtanker ......................................................................................................................... 57 Use of Non-Federally Approved Airtankers: ............................................................................ 59 Helicopters ................................................................................................................................ 59 Aerial Supervision Aircraft ....................................................................................................... 61 Helicopter Emergency Services: Short Haul/Hoist Extraction. ................................................ 63 Smokejumper Aircraft ............................................................................................................... 63 Modular Airborne Firefighting System (MAFFS) .................................................................... 63 Military Helicopter Operations ................................................................................................. 65 National Guard Helicopter Operations ...................................................................................... 66 Water Scooping Aircraft ........................................................................................................... 67 Night Aerial Supervision ........................................................................................................... 67 Firewatch Aerial Supervision Platforms ................................................................................... 67 Unmanned Aircraft Systems: .................................................................................................... 68 Chapter 5 – Suppression Chemicals .......................................................................................... 69 Definitions ................................................................................................................................. 69 Approved Fire Chemicals.......................................................................................................... 70 Retardant Mixing Facilities ....................................................................................................... 70 Airtanker Base Information ....................................................................................................... 70 Aerial Fire Chemical Application Safety .................................................................................. 71 Environmental and Wilderness Effects ..................................................................................... 71 Waterway and Avoidance Area Policy ..................................................................................... 71 Chapter 6 – Aerial Supervision Mission Procedures ................................................................ 75 Pre-Mission Procedures ............................................................................................................. 75 Obtain a Mission Briefing ......................................................................................................... 76 Pre-Takeoff Responsibilities ..................................................................................................... 77 Enroute Procedures ................................................................................................................... 77 Fire Traffic Area (FTA) Entry Procedures ................................................................................ 78 Aerial Supervisor Arriving on Scene Responsibilities .............................................................. 79 Standard Briefings ..................................................................................................................... 79 Target Description ..................................................................................................................... 80 Aircraft Separation .................................................................................................................... 81 Coordination Between Types of Aerial Supervisors ................................................................. 85 Coordination with Ground Personnel ........................................................................................ 87 Coordination with Dispatch ...................................................................................................... 89 Before Leaving the Incident ...................................................................................................... 89 Post Mission Procedures ........................................................................................................... 90 Emergency Procedures .............................................................................................................. 90 Chapter 7 – Aerial Firefighting Strategy and Tactics .............................................................. 93 Aerial Fire Suppression Strategies ............................................................................................ 93 Aerial Fire Suppression Tactics ................................................................................................ 93 General Tactical Considerations ............................................................................................... 94 IA and Multiple Fire Operations ............................................................................................... 96 Wildland Urban Interface .......................................................................................................... 98 IASG 2017 Table of Contents Page vii Chapter 8 – Tactical Aircraft Operations ............................................................................... 101 Low-Level Operations (Leadplane Pilot/ASM) ...................................................................... 101 Airtanker Operations ............................................................................................................... 106 Helicopter and Helitanker Operations ..................................................................................... 109 Smokejumper Operations ........................................................................................................ 111 Helicopter Rappel Operations ................................................................................................. 112 Water Scooper Operations (CL 215/415)................................................................................ 113 Chapter 9 – All Hazard Incidents ............................................................................................ 119 Air Operations Supervision ..................................................................................................... 119 Chapter 10 – Safety .................................................................................................................. 123 Mitigating Risks ...................................................................................................................... 123 Modifying Air Operations ....................................................................................................... 130 Chapter 11 – Job Aids and Resources .................................................................................... 131 Required Job Aids (Lead/ASM) .............................................................................................. 131 Aerial Supervision Kit ............................................................................................................. 131 Publications ............................................................................................................................. 132 Glossary ..................................................................................................................................... 133 Abbreviations ............................................................................................................................ 145 Appendix A – Leadplane Phase Check Oral Questions ......................................................... 147 Appendix B – ATGS Refresher Training Exercise................................................................. 153 Appendix C – Aerial Supervision Mission Checklist .............................................................. 155 Appendix D – Fire Traffic Area Card ..................................................................................... 157 Fire Traffic Area (FTA) 09 Dec 2015 ..................................................................................... 157 Incident Airspace Reminders .................................................................................................. 158 Appendix E – Standard Briefing Scripts ................................................................................. 159 Script Standards....................................................................................................................... 160 Appendix F – Aerial Supervision Forms................................................................................. 163 Annual Aerial Supervision Mission Summary ........................................................................ 164 IQCS Incident Experience Update ......................................................................................... 165 Task Books .............................................................................................................................. 166 Aerial Supervision Mission Log ............................................................................................. 167 Aerial Supervision Mission Evaluation (ATGS/HLCO) ........................................................ 168 ASM Evaluator/Final Evaluator ............................................................................................. 169 Aircraft Mission Checklist Aerial Supervision ....................................................................... 170 Aerial Supervision Transition Checklist ................................................................................. 171 Aerial Supervision Mission Organizer .................................................................................... 172 IASG Revision Proposal ......................................................................................................... 173 ASM Mission Evaluation ........................................................................................................ 174 Aerial Supervision Evaluator Evaluation ............................................................................... 175 IASG 2017 Figures and Tables Page viii Figures Figure 1. Interagency Aerial Supervision Relationship Diagram ............................................................. 11 Figure 2. Aerial Supervision organization during Initial Attack and Extended Attack ............................ 13 Figure 3. Multi-engine Airtanker Startup and Cutoff Regulations ........................................................... 41 Figure 4. Show-Me Profile ..................................................................................................................... 102 Figure 5. Chase Position Profile ............................................................................................................. 103 Figure 6. Lead Profile ............................................................................................................................. 104 Tables Table 1. Incident Aerial Supervision Requirements ................................................................................. 42 Table 2. Interagency Avionics Typing Standards ..................................................................................... 47 Table 3. Airtanker Classification .............................................................................................................. 58 Table 4. Helicopter Classification............................................................................................................. 60 Table 5. Aerial and Ground Delivery Policy ............................................................................................ 72 Table 6. Standard Operational Altitudes and Patterns .............................................................................. 82 Table 7. Recommended Retardant Coverage Levels .............................................................................. 107 Table 8. Heavy Airtanker Line Length Production Chart (feet) ............................................................. 108 Table 9. Possible Uses of Aircraft by Type of Incident .......................................................................... 121 Table 10. System Safety Assessment for Aerial Supervision ................................................................. 125 IASG 2017 Chapter 1 – Aerial Supervision Administration, Roles, and Responsibilities Page 9 Chapter 1 – Aerial Supervision Administration, Roles, 1 and Responsibilities 2 Program Administration 3 Agencies are responsible for oversight and management of their agency’s aerial supervision 4 program. In order to achieve a cohesive and highly standardized interagency program, the 5 following roles and responsibilities of interagency program management are provided. 6 National, Regional, State, County, Cities, CAL FIRE, and Military Agency 7 Program Managers 8 Program Managers are delegated by their respective agencies and are responsible to administer 9 the agencies aerial supervision program. Interagency scope of responsibilities should include: 10 • Coordinate with other agency program managers, the Interagency Aerial Supervision 11 Subcommittee (IASS), and Interagency Geographic Area Coordination Center (GACC) 12 Representatives to provide program coordination on an interagency basis. 13 • Coordinate with other agency program managers, the IASS, and interagency GACC 14 Representatives to maintain and update a national resource qualifications list to include 15 trainees, qualified personnel, Evaluators, and Final Evaluators. 16 • Ensure agency training and currency requirements are met. Annually review mission and 17 qualification summaries. 18 • Participate on interagency working groups, committees, and subcommittees such as the 19 Interagency Helicopter Operations Subcommittee, the Interagency Single Engine Airtanker 20 Board Subcommittee (SEATB), and the Interagency Airspace Subcommittee (IASC). 21 • Coordinate training at the national and/or geographic level. 22 • Manage Evaluators and Final Evaluator designations/qualifications in order to meet agency 23 quality assurance, standardization, and training objectives. 24 • Coordinate with trainee’s unit/agency to track training progression and on-the-job training 25 (OJT) needs. 26 • Ensure coaches are assigned to trainees. 27 • Provide for quality assurance and oversight of operational and training performance 28 standards. 29 • Distribute aerial supervision program related information on an interagency basis. 30 • Coordinate with agencies that have a desire to develop or enhance an aerial supervision 31 program. 32 • Coordinate operational standards with international cooperators. 33 • Provide input to the revision of the Interagency Aerial Supervision Guide (IASG) and 34 interagency training management system. 35 • Additional roles and responsibilities may be assigned based on agency specific needs. 36 IASG 2017 Chapter 1 – Aerial Supervision Administration, Roles, and Responsibilities Page 10 GACC Aerial Supervision Representatives (GACC REPS) 1 Aerial Supervision Specialists, assigned by the Geographic Area Coordination Group, coordinate 2 geographic aerial supervision needs and provide quality assurance oversight of: 3 GACC REPS 4 • Should be recommended on a rotational basis and delegated in writing. 5 Scope of Duties 6 • Serve as Geographic Area Interagency Aerial Supervision point of contact. 7 • Coordinate with agency program managers and Geographic Area Training Representatives 8 (GATR) to coordinate suitability flights, quality assurance observation flights, final 9 evaluation flights, and training of federal, state, and local agencies. 10 • Make recommendations concerning training priorities to agency program managers 11 and GATR’s. 12 • May assist the GACC aircraft coordinators with tactical aerial supervision information 13 and recommendations. 14 • Coordinate with agency program managers to ensure concurrent and cohesive training, 15 training curriculum, and operations standards are met, nationally. 16 • Provide input to the revision of the IASG and interagency training management system. 17 • Participate at the National Aerial Supervision meeting (held annually). 18 Aerial Supervision Working Groups 19 There are three sub-groups of the IASS which provide subject matter expertise and technical 20 assistance to meet IASS assigned tasking. Each group is managed under a charter from IASS. 21 Chair/Co-chair: 22 • Serve as the point of contact to the IASS and manage the working group. 23 • Serve as the Subject Matter Expert (SME) during IASS meetings and deliberations. 24 Working Group Members: 25 • GACC Representatives. 26 • Agency Representatives – national, regional, and state SME’s. 27 • Agency program managers. 28 IASG 2017 Chapter 1 – Aerial Supervision Administration, Roles, and Responsibilities Page 11 Figure 1. Interagency Aerial Supervision Relationship Diagram 1 Aerial Supervision Resources 2 There are five types of aerial supervision resources and six aerial supervisor ICS positions. 3 Although these positions are unique, they share the common purpose of facilitating safe, 4 effective, and efficient air operations in support of incident objectives. 5 Helicopter Coordinator (HLCO) 6 The HLCO coordinates, directs, and evaluates tactical/logistical helicopter operations. The 7 HLCO position is typically activated on complex incidents where several helicopters are 8 assigned. A HLCO can increase the span of control of the ATGS by managing helicopters over 9 an incident. The HLCO may provide sole aerial supervision on an incident where only 10 helicopters are assigned, otherwise ATGS is required. When an ATGS is assigned, the HLCO is 11 a subordinate position to the ATGS. If no ATGS is present, the HLCO works for the Incident 12 Commander (IC), Air Operations Branch Director (AOBD), or designee. Other than the 13 prerequisite requirements for ATGS, HLCO organizational structure, currency, and refresher 14 requirements are recommended to mirror the ATGS program. 15 The HLCO is qualified to function from either an airplane or helicopter however during 16 complexed operations the helicopter is the preferred platform.. 17 Air Tactical Group Supervisor (ATGS) 18 The ATGS coordinates incident airspace and manages incident air traffic. The ATGS is an 19 airborne firefighter who coordinates, assigns, and evaluates the use of aerial resources in support 20 of incident objectives. The ATGS is the link between ground personnel and incident aircraft. 21 The ATGS must collaborate with ground personnel to develop and implement tactical and 22 logistical missions on an incident. The ATGS must be proactive in communicating current and 23 expected fire and weather conditions. The ATGS must provide candid feedback regarding the 24 effectiveness of aviation operations and overall progress toward meeting incident objectives. 25 The ATGS must also work with dispatch staff to coordinate the ordering, assignment, and 26 release of incident aircraft in accordance with the needs of fire management and incident 27 command personnel. 28 IASG 2017 Chapter 1 – Aerial Supervision Administration, Roles, and Responsibilities Page 12 On Initial Attack (IA) incidents (Type 4 and 5), the ATGS will size up, prioritize, and coordinate 1 the response of aerial and ground resources until a qualified IC arrives. On complex incidents 2 (Type 1, 2, or 3), the ATGS will coordinate and prioritize the use of aircraft between several 3 divisions/groups while maintaining communications with operations personnel and aircraft bases 4 (fixed/rotor). 5 In the ICS, the ATGS works for the IC on initial attack and the Operations Section Chief (OSC), 6 AOBD, or operational designee on extended attack. The ATGS supervises the ATCO, 7 Leadplane Pilot, and the HLCO positions when activated. The ATGS is qualified to function as 8 an ATCO or HLCO from either an airplane or helicopter. 9 Airtanker Coordinator (ATCO) 10 The ATCO coordinates, directs, and evaluates airtanker operations. When an ATGS is assigned 11 the ATCO is a subordinate to the ATGS position. If no ATGS is present the ATCO works for 12 the IC, OPSC, AOBD, or designee. 13 An ATCO can increase the effectiveness of an operations by assisting the ATGS by through 14 management of the airtankers assigned to an incident. The ATCO is not authorized for low-level 15 flight operations.(Flights Below 500 ft Above Ground Level (AGL))Leadplane Pilot 16 The Leadplane position is identical to the ATCO except the pilot is qualified and authorized for 17 low-level flight operations. A Leadplane Pilot is not recognized in ICS and is classified as an 18 ATCO by default. The low-level capabilities of a Leadplane enhance the safety and 19 effectiveness of airtanker operations in the often turbulent, smoky, and congested airspace of the 20 fire environment. 21 Aerial Supervision Module (ASM) 22 An ASM is a two-person crew functioning as the Lead and ATGS from the same aircraft. The 23 ASM crew is qualified in their respective positions and has received additional training and 24 authorization. 25 An ASM can be utilized as a Lead, ATGS, or both, depending on the needs of incident 26 management personnel. An ASM consists of an ATP and ATS. 27 ATP – The ATP is a qualified Leadplane Pilot who has received specialized training and 28 authorization to function as an ASM crewmember. The ATP functions as the Leadplane Pilot 29 and utilizes Crew Resource Management (CRM) skills to evaluate and share the incident 30 workload with the ATS. 31 ATS – The ATS is a qualified ATGS who has received specialized training and authorization to 32 function as an ASM crewmember. The ATS is an ATGS who also utilizes CRM to evaluate and 33 share the incident workload with the ATP. 34 The following chart depicts the relation of Aerial Supervision to other resources in ICS. 35 IASG 2017 Chapter 1 – Aerial Supervision Administration, Roles, and Responsibilities Page 13 Figure 2. Aerial Supervision organization during Initial Attack and Extended Attack 1 IASG 2017 Chapter 2 – Training, Certification, and Currency Page 15 Chapter 2 – Training, Certification, and Currency 1 The policies governing Training, Certification, and Currency shall comply with the employee’s 2 agency policy requirements. Additional requirements described within this guide shall be 3 considered recommendations unless specifically adopted by the applicable agency as policy. 4 The purpose of any additional requirement and/or standard is to achieve the highest level of 5 safety and performance. 6 Helicopter Coordinator (HLCO) 7 HLCO is used in conjunction with ATGS/ASM or as stand-alone aerial supervisors of 8 helicopters. Large incidents can have more than one HLCO operating at the same time. 9 HLCO Position Duties 10 • A qualified HLCO or ATGS will oversee OJT during all missions. 11 • Only qualified HLCO’s can recommend certification of a HLCO. 12 • Coordinates, directs, and evaluates tactical/logistical helicopter operations. 13 • Provide sole aerial supervision on an incident where only helicopters are assigned, otherwise 14 ATGS is required. 15 HLCO Initial Training 16 • S-378 or equivalent 17 HLCO Certification 18 • Completion of Position Task Book (OJT) 19 HLCO Supplemental Training 20 • Attend RT-378 triennially 21 • 7 Skills CRM training 22 • S-271 Helicopter Crew Member 23 • S-372 Helicopter Manager 24 • Load Calculations 25 HLCO Currency 26 • 1 mission every 3 years 27 Air Tactical Group Supervisor (ATGS) 28 Aerial supervision operations place a high demand on communication and management skills. 29 Application of fire behavior knowledge combined with ground fire resource capability must be 30 correlated with tactical aircraft mission planning. 31 ATGS Position Duties 32 • Safely and effectively utilize aircraft in support of incident management objectives. 33 • Coordinate incident airspace and manages incident air traffic. 34 IASG 2017 Chapter 2 – Training, Certification, and Currency Page 16 • Coordinate, assigns, and evaluates the use of aerial resources in support of incident 1 objectives. 2 • Collaborate with ground personnel to develop and implement tactical and logistical missions 3 on an incident. 4 • Communicate current and expected fire and weather conditions. 5 • Provide candid feedback regarding the effectiveness of aviation operations and overall 6 progress toward meeting incident objectives. 7 • Work with dispatch staff to coordinate the ordering, assignment, and release of incident 8 aircraft in accordance with the needs of fire management and incident command personnel. 9 ATGS Initial Training, Certification, and Currency 10 • Candidates will meet prerequisite experience requirements and mandatory training 11 requirements listed in the PMS 310-1 or Forest Service Fire and Aviation Qualification 12 Guide. 13 ATGS Classroom Training 14 • S-378, ATGS (State and Local Government) OR National Aerial Supervision Training 15 Academy (S-378) OR California Aerial Supervision Academy (S-378) 16 Note: United States Forest Service (USFS) and Department of The Interior (DOI) employees 17 must attend and pass the National Aerial Supervision Training Course or the California Aerial 18 Supervision Course. 19 ATGS Agency Approved CRM Training 20 • Federal and federally sponsored Administratively Determined (AD) employees will complete 21 Crew Resource Management 7 Skills (N-9059) facilitated by an authorized instructor. 22 • State employees will follow state CRM training requirements. 23 ATGS Mission Training Requirements 24 The flight training program should include a variety of work experience and be of sufficient 25 duration to ensure that the individual can independently function as an ATGS following 26 certification. 27 • Observing an ATGS Evaluator during ongoing incident operations. 28 • All OJT will be under the direct supervision of an ATGS Evaluator in the same aircraft. 29 • Prior to final certification, candidates must undertake an OJT program under the supervision 30 of an ATGS Evaluator that provides a variety of experience in initial and extended 31 attack scenarios. 32 ATGS Candidate Evaluations 33 • The candidate shall receive a written evaluation at the completion of all missions from the 34 ATGS Evaluator as an integral part of the mission de-briefing. Multiple missions may 35 be combined. 36 • The Aerial Supervision Mission Evaluation Form is the standard performance 37 assessment tool. 38 • The candidate will retain a copy of the Mission Evaluation to supplement information 39 completed by the ATGS Evaluator in the candidate’s task book. 40 IASG 2017 Chapter 2 – Training, Certification, and Currency Page 17 ATGS Training Opportunities 1 Agency program managers can assist in the development of candidates by assigning a coach and 2 providing a variety of training opportunities in different locales, fuel types and incident 3 complexities. Training opportunities may include the following: 4 • Assignments to work with full-time, dedicated/exclusive use ATGS at an air attack base. 5 • Assignments to a national or geographic area Incident Management Team (IMT). 6 • Details or training assignments in other geographic areas to increase the depth of experience. 7 • Participate as a passenger on other tactical aircraft during missions (subject to approval from 8 the National Program Manager, Regional Aviation Manager (RAO), Contracting Officer, 9 Contractor and Pilot in Command (PIC)). 10 ATGS Certification Process 11 Upon completion of the task book, the agency Final Evaluator will: 12 • Perform a final Mission Evaluation. 13 • Return the completed task book to the ATGS trainee along with recommendations. 14 • Notify the appropriate Agency Program Manager. 15 • Trainee is responsible for submitting completed position task book, training documentation, 16 and final recommendation to certifying official. 17 ATGS Supplemental Training 18 The following training opportunities should be considered prior to initial certification or as 19 supplemental or refresher training for individuals currently certified as ATGSs. The GACC Rep, 20 Agency Program Manager, or training official can assist in the development of candidates by 21 providing a variety of training opportunities in different locales, fuel types and incident 22 complexities. Related aviation training opportunities should be made available to candidates to 23 provide valuable knowledge, experience and skills applicable to the ATGS. Training 24 opportunities may include the following: 25 • Pinch Hitter pilot course. 26 • Private pilot ground school. 27 • National Aerial Fire Fighting Academy (NAFA & NAFA II). 28 • Participation in aerial reconnaissance or aerial detection missions. 29 • Observing or participating in large helibase operations. 30 • Orientation to airtanker base and retardant operations. 31 • Orientation to or observation of aircraft dispatch operations. 32 • Assignments working with full-time, exclusive use ATGS at an air attack base. 33 • Peer-to-peer observation and cross training is recommended to enhance skills, provide 34 avenue to observe other qualified ATGS’s, and enhance operational standardization. 35 • Assignments to a national or geographic area IMT. 36 IASG 2017 Chapter 2 – Training, Certification, and Currency Page 18 ATGS Currency Requirements 1 All ATGS will meet the requirements stated in the PMS 310-1and forward an annual mission 2 summary11 to the appropriate Agency Program Manager/RAO. 3 In addition: 4 • Annually perform, document, and report a minimum of five missions. (Failure to maintain 5 ATGS mission currency requires a passing evaluation by a Final Evaluator on an actual or 6 simulated mission). 7 • Each mission may be documented as a “Shift” in the appropriate qualification management 8 system (see glossary). 9 • Attend a triennial RT-378. 10 • Attend a triennial CRM 7 Skills Refresher (RT9059F) or agency approved CRM 11 refresher course. 12 • Recertification-See 310-1 or agency specific policy. 13 Note: USFS qualified ATGS’s must meet the Forest Service Fire and Aviation Qualifications 14 Guide and the PMS 310-1 for ATGS currency. California Department of Forestry (CALFIRE) 15 supports the above currency requirements and manages them internally. 16 ATGS Refresher Training (RT-378) 17 Required Elements 18 • Proficiency exercise 19 • Risk management/ System Safety 20 • Mission procedures 21 • FTA management 22 • Fire and Aviation Weather 23 • Lessons Learned/Case Studies 24 • Agency approved CRM refresher 25 o Federal and federally sponsored AD employees will complete the 7 Skills CRM refresher 26 (1.5 hours minimum) facilitated by a federally authorized instructor. 27 o State employees will follow state CRM training requirements. 28 Optional Elements 29 • Radio programming 30 • Map reading and navigation 31 • Strategy and tactics 32 • Aviation incidents/accidents from the preceding season 33 • Payment documents 34 • Contract and aircraft fleet updates 35 • Issues and concerns from national and/or regional user groups (fire management, dispatch, 36 hotshots, ICs, etc.) 37 1 Annual Mission Summaries, Individual Mission forms, and Mission Evaluation forms are components of the Aerial Supervision Log Book (NFES 1150).1 IASG 2017 Chapter 2 – Training, Certification, and Currency Page 19 • Communications brevity 1 • Electronic flight bags 2 Proficiency Exercise 3 All ATGS will demonstrate proficiency in the required refresher elements and complete a 4 moderate complexity (a mix of at least four fixed and rotor wing aircraft) mission or flight/Sand 5 Table Exercises (STEX) exercise (appendix B). Students will be evaluated utilizing the Aerial 6 Supervision Mission Evaluation form (PMS 509) 7 The exercise will represent a typical IA and will require the ATGS to demonstrate the minimum 8 acceptable skill set of the position including Fire Traffic Area (FTA) entry, determining FTA 9 altitudes, initial aircraft briefings, aircraft separation, communication with air and ground 10 resources, and situational awareness. 11 Performance will be documented on a Mission Evaluation, reviewed with the participant, and 12 forward a copy to the appropriate Agency Program Manager. Failure to demonstrate an 13 acceptable level of proficiency will require the ATGS performance deficiency or decertification 14 process to be implemented. 15 Documentation packet (or agency record of completion) will be issued to attendees who 16 complete the refresher. Documentation will be forwarded to the appropriate Agency Program 17 Manager and the training official. 18 ATGS Mission Evaluation 19 The standard method for evaluating ATGS performance is an actual or simulated mission 20 utilizing the Aerial Supervision Mission Evaluation form. ATGS (Evaluator/Final Evaluator) 21 conducts Mission Evaluations for the following purposes: 22 • ATGS training 23 • ATGS certification 24 • ATGS currency 25 • ATGS performance deficiencies 26 ATGS Performance Deficiencies 27 If an ATGS is observed performing unsafely/deficiently: 28 • The event will be discussed with the individual, and documented. Documentation should 29 consist of recommendations on how to bring ATGS up to currency standards; additional 30 academics, coaching, mentoring, observations, etc. 31 • The recommendations will be forwarded to the appropriate RAO/Agency Program Manager, 32 and the individual’s supervisor or sponsoring agency/official. The ATGS may be made 33 unavailable for 34 ATGS assignments in the appropriate dispatch status system until the certifying official 35 reviews the recommendations. 36 Air Tactical Group Supervisor Coach 37 ATGS Coaches serve as a point of contact and SME for the trainee throughout the 38 training process. 39 IASG 2017 Chapter 2 – Training, Certification, and Currency Page 20 Position Requirements 1 • Qualified ATGS 2 Responsibilities 3 • Help develop a training plan for the candidate. 4 • Coordinate with the Agency Program Manager and Employee Supervisor. 5 • Assure training is on track and that all requirements are being scheduled so as not to delay 6 progress. 7 • Assist with any problems regarding agency and training requirements. 8 • Coaches should be an independent, nonpartisan person outside the employee’s standard chain 9 of command. 10 Air Tactical Group Supervisor Evaluator 11 ATGS Evaluators should provide consistent ATGS instruction, evaluation, and feedback on 12 ATGS missions. 13 Position Requirements 14 • One year following ATGS qualification while maintaining currency. 15 • Attend a regionally sponsored ATGS Evaluator workshop triennially (by 2019). 16 Documentation shall be forwarded to the appropriate GACC representative. 17 • ADs are authorized for this position providing they meet the position requirements. 18 • Maintain ATGS currency as defined by agency training policy. 19 • The Agency Program Manager/ appropriate RAO will track ATGS Evaluator. State Agency 20 aviation program managers have the ability to designate state employed ATGS Evaluators. 21 Responsibilities 22 • Utilize applicable methods to promote ATGS trainee progress and ultimate certification. 23 • Utilize training aids, best practices, forms, and policy documents to maximize the training 24 experience. 25 • Review and complete applicable position task book elements. 26 • Document strengths, focused improvement areas utilizing the Aerial Supervision Mission 27 Evaluation Form (PMS 509 Form 4) located at: 28 https://www.nwcg.gov/products/509/aerial-supervision-logbook-forms 29 • Provide feedback to the trainee’s supervisor/coach. 30 • Share progress reports with ATGS Trainee’s GACC Representative. 31 • Coordinate with trainee’s supervisor to recommend and schedule final evaluation flight. 32 Air Tactical Group Supervisor Evaluator Workshop 33 Workshops should prepare ATGS Evaluators to apply current and consistent training procedures. 34 The Evaluator workshop should be integrated with RT-378. 35 IASG 2017 Chapter 2 – Training, Certification, and Currency Page 21 Target Group 1 Qualified ATGS (one year) 2 Workshop Instructor Requirement 3 ATGS Evaluator 4 Course Prerequisite 5 None 6 Course Level 7 Regional, state, or area 8 Course Content: 9 • Instructional methods 10 • Utilization of the Mission Evaluation Form (PMS 509 form 4) located at: 11 https://www.nwcg.gov/products/509/aerial-supervision-logbook-forms 12 • Mission flights 13 • Lecture 14 • STEX 15 • After Action Review (AAR) 16 • Interagency/Regional consistency 17 • CRM/Human Factors – How to provide constructive criticism 18 • Training Aids 19 • Policy 20 Air Tactical Group Supervisor Final Evaluator 21 This section describes the qualifications, training, certification, and currency requirements 22 necessary to perform as an ATGS Final Evaluator. 23 ATGS Final Evaluator Duties 24 • Provide final ATGS trainee evaluation and complete Final Evaluator verification page in the 25 ATGS position task book. 26 Position Requirements 27 • One year of experience as an ATGS Evaluator. 28 • Attend a nationally sponsored ATGS Final Evaluator Workshop triennially (by 2019). 29 Documentation shall be forwarded to the appropriate GACC representative. 30 • AD employees are NOT authorized to perform this function. 31 • Maintain ATGS currency as defined by agency training policy. 32 • The appropriate RAO /Agency Program Manager will provide a letter of authorization to the 33 ATGS Final Evaluator upon completion of the requisite training. 34 Note: State Agency aviation program managers have the ability to designate state employed 35 ATGS Final Evaluators. 36 IASG 2017 Chapter 2 – Training, Certification, and Currency Page 22 Responsibilities 1 • Coordinate with ATGS Instructor and trainee’s supervisor to schedule and implement a final 2 evaluation. 3 • Perform final evaluation and complete Aerial Supervision Mission Evaluation form. 4 • Complete the Position Task Book (PTB). 5 • Complete Final Evaluator Verification OR, 6 • Complete an Evaluation Record (experience block) to document further training 7 recommendations. 8 • Review evaluation with ATGS Trainee. 9 • Contact Trainees supervisor and review the final evaluation. 10 Air Tactical Group Supervisor Final Evaluator Workshop 11 Objective 12 Prepare ATGS Final Evaluators to perform ATGS Trainee final evaluations. The Final 13 Evaluator Workshop should be integrated with the Aerial Supervision Academy or equivalent. 14 Target Group 15 ATGS Evaluators 16 Instructor Requirement 17 ATGS Final Evaluator 18 Course Prerequisite 19 None 20 Course Level 21 National 22 Course Content 23 • Policy 24 • Documentation 25 • ATGS PTB 26 • Aerial Supervision Mission Evaluation (PMS 509) 27 • CRM/Human Factors – How to provide constructive criticism 28 • Agency specific qualification/certification processes 29 Airtanker Coordinator (ATCO) 30 The ATCO may not be authorized for low-level (below 500’ AGL) operations. 31 Position Duties 32 • Coordinates, directs, and evaluates airtanker operations. 33 • Works under the ATGS. 34 IASG 2017 Chapter 2 – Training, Certification, and Currency Page 23 Leadplane Pilot (Lead) 1 The primary mission of the Leadplane Pilot is to ensure the safe, efficient and effective use of 2 airtankers in the management of wildland fire. The term "Leadplane Pilot" is used to address a 3 specialized function. The ICS does not include this position in the organization but uses the term 4 ATCO. The differences between the functions of the two positions are addressed below. 5 Leadplane operations place a high demand on not only pilot skills, but on a person's management 6 skills. Pilot skills, mission management, and application of fire behavior knowledge, all 7 correlate with successful mission performance. 8 A Leadplane Pilot is an aerial firefighter. As such, National Wildfire Coordinating Group 9 (NWCG) firefighter training titles are used in lieu of standard Federal Aviation Administration 10 (FAA) pilot terminology. For purposes of Leadplane Pilot training: 11 • An “Instructor” is herein referred to as an “Evaluator.” 12 • A “Pilot Examiner or Check Airman” is herein referred to as a “Final Evaluator.” 13 • An interagency Leadplane Pilot call sign/qualification list is maintained by the USFS 14 Washington Office (WO), Branch Chief Pilot Standardization and published annually in the 15 National Mobilization Guide. 16 Leadplane Pilot Qualifications 17 Candidates for Leadplane Pilot designation must be federal or state (or state contract) employees 18 who have the appropriate FAA pilot and medical certifications. Forest Service candidates shall 19 possess, as a minimum, the flight experience listed in the Forest Service Handbook (FSH) 20 5709.16. DOI pilots shall meet, as a minimum, the requirements of 351 Departmental Manual 21 (DM) 3. State contract employees shall possess, at a minimum, the flight experience listed in 22 FSH 5709.16 Trainees shall complete the mission training and certification requirements of this 23 section. 24 Deviations or Exceptions 25 The WO Branch Chief, Pilot Standardization in coordination with the appropriate RAO (USFS), 26 the National Flight Operations Manager (BLM), or appropriate State Aviation Official may 27 authorize deviations or exceptions from the training requirements. Approved deviations or 28 exceptions will be in writing. Documentation will be maintained by the appropriate agency 29 official and a copy will be carried in the trainees training folder. 30 Leadplane Pilot Initial Training Curriculum 31 Every effort shall be made to limit the number of Leadplane Pilot Evaluators assigned to provide 32 training for each candidate during Phases 1 and 2. 33 Leadplane Pilot Training 34 This defines the Leadplane Pilot program of instruction. 35 • Organizational Course of Instruction 36 • I-200 Basic ICS 37 • S-370 Intermediate Aviation Operations, if available. If not available, S-270 Basic Aviation 38 Operations 39 • S-290 Intermediate Fire Behavior 40 • National Air Attack Academy (Alternate delivery S-378) or CALFIRE Air Attack Academy 41 IASG 2017 Chapter 2 – Training, Certification, and Currency Page 24 • Interagency Aerial Supervision Academy (Initial Leadplane Pilot Training Course) 1 Note: The above courses shall be completed prior to entering Phase 3 Operational 2 Flight Training 3 Leadplane Pilot Supplemental Training 4 Candidates should obtain additional training beyond agency minimum requirements prior to 5 proceeding with Operational Training. 6 • Wildland fire suppression experience 7 • Low-level and mountain flying experience 8 • Fire suppression tactics 9 • Dispatch Center orientation and operations 10 • Helicopter Operations 11 Additional courses to be completed at the next available opportunity after 12 initial qualification: 13 • NAFA or NAFA II 14 • Agency approved Crew Resource Management 7 Skills (N-9059) 15 Operational Flight Instruction 16 Training is divided into three phases. Each phase is to be completed before progressing to the 17 next phase. Identified deficiencies shall be documented and corrected prior to the candidate’s 18 progress to the next phase. 19 Documentation of Training 20 The pilot is responsible for maintaining their individual training folder. The folder shall include 21 the following: 22 • Course completion certificates 23 • Record of ground and flight training including documentation of corrected deficiencies 24 • Sign-offs for each phase of flight training 25 Flight Training Records 26 Leadplane Pilot Evaluators will provide the trainee with a written documentation of each training 27 flight. The original copy will be retained by the trainee in their training folder. A copy of the 28 phase training completion form will be sent to the appropriate RAO and a copy forwarded to the 29 WO Branch Chief, Pilot Standardization (USFS), the National Flight Operations Manager 30 (BLM), or the appropriate State Aviation Officer. The Leadplane Evaluator will retain a copy 31 for their records. 32 Leadplane Training / Check Form 33 • The Leadplane / Check Form is to be used to record all Leadplane training and checkrides. 34 Initial Leadplane Pilot Training Process 35 The Initial Leadplane Pilot Training Course should be taken before entering Phase 1 but shall be 36 accomplished before completing Phase 2. 37 Note: The Leadplane Evaluator may alternate between the left and right (front and back) seats 38 during Phases 2 and 3. 39 IASG 2017 Chapter 2 – Training, Certification, and Currency Page 25 Phase 1 1 • Minimum of two operational periods of observing and assisting an ATGS on missions. 2 • Minimum of two missions of Leadplane Tactical Flight Training comprised of low 3 levelflight, mountainous terrain flight, proximity flight, and Leadplane/airtanker simulation. 4 Note: Flight time obtained in the Initial Leadplane Pilot Training Course can be used to meet this 5 requirement. 6 • Phase Check –This check will evaluate the following in a non-fire environment. 7 o Oral – The trainee shall pass an oral review covering all activities under Phase 1. The 8 oral will consist of questions involving (1) specific safety-of-flight and key operational 9 issues, (2) discussion questions designed to determine if the trainee has the base 10 knowledge that should be gained from Phase 1 activities, and (3) general questions to 11 establish that the trainee has an understanding of the operational issues that are necessary 12 to progress to Phase 2 (Appendix A). 13 o Flight Check – The flight check shall include low-level mountain flying, airspeed control, 14 tactical low-level patterns and join ups. 15 Phase 2 16 • Minimum of 3 missions observing in the right seat fire missions with a Leadplane Evaluator. 17 • Ride as an observer on a variety of airtankers, during fire missions. 18 • Minimum of 15 Leadplane missions on fires of various size and complexity as the flying 19 pilot in the left seat under the supervision of a Leadplane Evaluator. 20 • Phase Check – A Leadplane Final Evaluator will administer the Phase Check. 21 o Oral – The trainee shall pass an oral review covering all activities under Phase 2. The 22 oral will consist of questions involving (1) specific safety-of-flight and key operational 23 issues, (2) discussion questions designed to determine if the trainee has the base 24 knowledge that should be gained from Phase 2 activities, and (3) questions designed to 25 determine that the trainee has the knowledge to address situations that can arise when 26 performing the Leadplane mission. 27 o Flight Check – The flight check to determine that the trainee (1) can safely perform the 28 Leadplane mission, (2) operate within the designated mission profiles, and (3) has been 29 exposed to varying fire size and complexities. Any identified problem areas will be 30 satisfactorily resolved. 31 Phase 3 32 All required ground training shall be completed prior to initiating Phase 3. 33 • Minimum of ten Leadplane missions on fires of varying size and complexities as the flying 34 pilot under the supervision of a Leadplane Evaluator. 35 • A portion of the Leadplane missions shall be flown in other regions/states if not 36 accomplished in Phase 2. 37 • Additional flights in airtankers as necessary. 38 • Final Leadplane Progress Check – A Leadplane Pilot Evaluator will make a final progress 39 check upon completion of the Phase 3. This will consist of an oral review covering all 40 aspects of Leadplane Pilot operations. 41 • Complete Records Review – Complete records review of the training folder by the 42 candidate's coach to determine that all requirements have been met and signed off. The 43 IASG 2017 Chapter 2 – Training, Certification, and Currency Page 26 coach will than schedule a final check ride. 1 Final Evaluation and Qualification 2 To be designated as a Leadplane Pilot, candidates shall have: 3 • Satisfactorily completed all operational flight training and acquire the necessary operational 4 flight experience. 5 • Undergone a complete oral and operational evaluation. The evaluation consists of: 6 o A Phase 3 sign-off by a Leadplane Evaluator who has instructed the candidate during 7 Phase 3, attesting to the candidate's mission competence. 8 o A final flight check (which may require multiple missions to allow the Leadplane Final 9 Evaluator to observe adequate performance in complex environments) by a Leadplane 10 Final Evaluator certifying that the candidate has completed the required training and 11 recommends they be approved to perform as a Leadplane Pilot. 12 • The WO Branch Chief, Pilot Standardization in coordination with the appropriate RAO 13 (USFS), the National Flight Operations Manager (BLM), or appropriate State Aviation 14 Official will issue a letter of designation upon successful completion of Leadplane training. 15 Leadplane Pilot Currency 16 Experience – Leadplane Pilots shall complete 30 Leadplane missions in a three-year period. 17 Pilots not meeting the 30-mission requirement shall pass a flight check on a Leadplane fire 18 mission. A mission consists of a flight on an actual fire where retardant is delivered. Each fire 19 flown during a single flight counts as a mission. 20 Annual Leadplane Refresher 21 A Leadplane refresher will occur annually and consist of ground school and flight training. 22 Required Ground School Refresher Elements 23 • Target Description Exercise 24 • Safety 25 • Communications 26 • Tactics 27 • Airtanker operations 28 Optional Ground School Refresher Elements 29 • ICS 30 • Pre-season Update: (airtanker crew assignments, Expected fire behavior, Long-term weather 31 prognosis) 32 • Fire Size-Up 33 • Additional elements may be added based on national trends and needs. 34 Required Flight Training Refresher Elements 35 Flight Training shall be a minimum of three flight hours and include: 36 • Target Description 37 • Leadplane Tactical Flight Profile 38 • Communications 39 • Escape Routes 40 IASG 2017 Chapter 2 – Training, Certification, and Currency Page 27 • Emergency Procedures 1 • Annual Leadplane Pilot mission competency check by a Leadplane Evaluator 2 Standardization Evaluation 3 Leadplane mission checks may be conducted at any time for all qualified Leadplane Pilots with 4 not prior notice. The results will be forwarded to the appropriate RAO and WO Branch Chief, 5 Pilot Standardization (USFS), the National Flight Operations Manager (BLM), or appropriate 6 State Aviation Official and the Leadplane Pilot briefed on the evaluation. 7 Air Tactical Pilot/ASM Training 8 See ASM section. 9 Modular Airborne Fire Fighting System (MAFFS) 10 MAFFS qualification is an additional required endorsement. Leadplane Pilots are required to 11 attend the first available MAFFS training session after initial Leadplane qualification. 12 Qualifications 13 • Be a qualified Leadplane Pilot. 14 • Shall have completed MAFFS Leadplane Pilot training. 15 Certification 16 • Attend MAFFS Training Session. 17 • Interim certification may be granted upon initial Leadplane qualification based on actual 18 MAFFS operational experience obtained during initial Leadplane training. Leadplane Pilots 19 who obtain interim MAFFS certification shall attend the next MAFFS training session. 20 Currency 21 Leadplane Pilots shall attend the MAFFS training session every four years at a minimum. 22 Region 5 South Ops Familiarization 23 Leadplane Pilots shall receive instruction by an experienced Leadplane Evaluator in South Ops 24 before operating alone in that area. The WO Branch Chief, Pilot Standardization in coordination 25 with the appropriate RAO (USFS), the National Flight Operations Manager (BLM), or 26 appropriate State Aviation Official may waive this requirement if the Leadplane Pilot received 27 instruction in this area on fire missions during Phase 1 or Phase 3 Leadplane training. 28 Supplemental (AD) Leadplane Pilots 29 AD pilots shall maintain the same currency and training requirements stipulated for agency 30 pilots. The USFS WO will publish a list of supplemental Leadplane Pilots on an annual basis. 31 Leadplane Pilot Coach 32 This section describes the qualifications, training, and currency requirements necessary to 33 perform as a Leadplane Coach. Leadplane Coach: Serves as a point of contact and SME for the 34 IASG 2017 Chapter 2 – Training, Certification, and Currency Page 28 trainee throughout the training process. 1 Position Requirements 2 • Qualified Leadplane Pilot 3 Responsibilities 4 • Help develop a training plan for the candidate. 5 • Coordinate with the appropriate RAO/Agency Program Manager and Employee Supervisor. 6 • Assure training is on track and that all requirements are being scheduled so as to not delay 7 progress. 8 • Assist with any problems regarding agency and training requirements. 9 • Coaches should be an independent, nonpartisan person outside the employee’s standard chain 10 of command. 11 Leadplane Pilot Evaluator 12 Leadplane Pilot Evaluator provides consistent Leadplane instruction, evaluation, and feedback 13 on Leadplane missions. 14 Qualification Requirements 15 • Current Leadplane Pilot with a minimum of two seasons experience after initial qualification. 16 • Multi-region experience as a qualified Leadplane Pilot. 17 • MAFFS Qualified. 18 • Possess the appropriate FAA flight instructor certificate. 19 • Region 5 South Ops Experience. 20 • Attend Leadplane Evaluator workshop biennially. 21 Responsibilities 22 • Utilize applicable methods to promote Leadplane trainee progress and ultimate certification. 23 • Utilize training aids, best practices, forms, and policy documents to maximize the training 24 experience. 25 • Review and complete applicable phase training documentation. 26 • Document strengths, area for improvement, and focus areas utilizing the Leadplane Pilot 27 Training/ Check Form. 28 • Provide feedback to the trainee’s supervisor/coach. 29 • Share progress reports with Leadplane Evaluator community. 30 • Coordinate with trainee’s supervisor to recommend and schedule final evaluation flight. 31 Certification Process 32 • Pass a Leadplane Pilot Final Evaluator oral and flight check. 33 • The WO Branch Chief, Pilot Standardization in coordination with the appropriate RAO 34 (USFS), the National Flight Operations Manager (BLM), or appropriate State Aviation 35 Official will issue a Leadplane Pilot Evaluator designation letter. 36 IASG 2017 Chapter 2 – Training, Certification, and Currency Page 29 Currency 1 • Maintain Leadplane Pilot currency 2 • Maintain MAFFS currency 3 • Attend biennial Evaluator Workshop 4 Leadplane Pilot Evaluator Workshop 5 Objective 6 • Prepare Leadplane Evaluators to apply current and consistent training procedures. 7 • Target Group: Qualified Leadplane Pilots with 2 years of experience. 8 • Workshop Instructor Requirement –Leadplane Pilot Evaluators and Final Evaluators. 9 Nomination Process 10 The Leadplane working group, in conjunction with the WO Branch Chief, Pilot Standardization 11 and the appropriate RAO (USFS), the National Flight Operations Manager (BLM), or 12 appropriate State Aviation Official will nominate pilots who meet the qualifications and whom 13 they consider to have the experience, aptitude, dedication, and ability to perform the duties of a 14 Leadplane Pilot Evaluator. 15 Course Prerequisite 16 • Multi-region experience as a qualified Leadplane Pilot 17 • MAFFS Qualified 18 • Possess the appropriate FAA flight instructor certificate 19 • Region 5 South Ops Experience 20 Course Level 21 National Interagency 22 Course Content 23 • Instructional methods 24 • Utilization of the Leadplane Pilot Training/ Check Form 25 • Mission flights 26 • Lecture 27 • STEX 28 • AAR 29 • Standardization of instruction 30 • CRM/Human Factors – How to provide constructive criticism 31 • Training Aids 32 o Policy 33 IASG 2017 Chapter 2 – Training, Certification, and Currency Page 30 Leadplane Pilot Final Evaluator 1 Leadplane Pilot Final Evaluator provides final Leadplane Pilot trainee evaluations. The 2 Leadplane Pilot Final Evaluator makes the recommendation for certification to the appropriate 3 Agency Program Manager. 4 Qualification Requirements 5 • Current Leadplane Pilot with a minimum of three seasons as a Leadplane Evaluator. 6 • MAFFS Qualified. 7 • Possess the appropriate FAA flight instructor certificate. 8 • Attend Leadplane Final Evaluator workshop biennially. 9 Responsibilities 10 • Coordinate with Leadplane Evaluator and trainee’s supervisor to schedule and implement a 11 final evaluation/check ride. 12 • Perform final evaluation/check ride and complete Leadplane Pilot Training/ Check Form. 13 • Contact Trainees supervisor and review the final evaluation. 14 Certification 15 • Pass a Leadplane Pilot Final Evaluator oral and flight check. 16 • The WO Branch Chief, Pilot Standardization in coordination with the appropriate RAO 17 (USFS), the National Flight Operations Manager (BLM), or appropriate State Aviation 18 Official will issue a Leadplane Pilot Final Evaluator designation letter. 19 Currency 20 • Maintain Leadplane Pilot currency 21 • Maintain MAFFS currency 22 • Attend biennial Final Evaluator Workshop 23 Leadplane Pilot Final Evaluator Workshop 24 Objective 25 Prepare Leadplane Final Evaluators to apply current and consistent training procedures. 26 Target Group 27 Qualified Leadplane Evaluator Pilots with 3 years of experience 28 Workshop Instructor Requirement 29 Leadplane Pilot Final Evaluator 30 Nomination Process 31 The Leadplane working group, in conjunction with the WO Branch Chief, Pilot Standardization 32 and the appropriate RAO (USFS), the National Flight Operations Manager (BLM), or 33 appropriate State Aviation Official will nominate pilots who meet the qualifications and whom 34 they consider to have the experience, aptitude, dedication, and ability to perform the duties of a 35 Leadplane Pilot Final Evaluator. 36 IASG 2017 Chapter 2 – Training, Certification, and Currency Page 31 Course Prerequisite 1 • Multi-region experience as a qualified Leadplane Pilot Evaluator. 2 • MAFFS Qualified. 3 • Possess the appropriate FAA flight instructor certificate. 4 Course Level 5 National Interagency 6 Course Content 7 • Final evaluation methods 8 • Mission flights 9 • Standardization of final evaluation 10 • CRM/Human Factors – How to provide constructive criticism 11 • Policy 12 Leadplane Pilot/Trainee Performance Deficiencies 13 If a Leadplane Pilot/Trainee is observed performing unsafely/deficiently: 14 • The event will be discussed with the individual, and documented as appropriate. 15 • Depending on the agency, the documentation will be forwarded WO Branch Chief, Pilot 16 Standardization and the appropriate RAO (USFS), the National Flight Operations Manager 17 (BLM), or appropriate State Aviation Official. The individual may be made unavailable for 18 Leadplane Pilot/Trainee assignments in the appropriate dispatch/status system. 19 Aerial Supervision Module (ASM) 20 An ASM is a crew of two specially trained individuals who retain their individual Leadplane 21 Pilot and ATGS qualifications. Each crewmember has specific duties and responsibilities that 22 fall within their area of expertise. These vary in scope based on the mission and task loads of 23 each crewmember. 24 The ATP serves as the aircraft commander and is primarily responsible for aircraft coordination 25 over the incident. Following Leadplane qualification, it is recommended that Leadplane Pilots 26 acquire one year of Leadplane experience in multiple geographic regions prior to operating as an 27 ATP. This does not preclude the Leadplane Pilot from attending ASM training or flying with an 28 ATS to gain additional fire fighting and retardant use experience. 29 The ATS serves as the mission commander who develops/implements strategy/tactics in 30 conjunction with the IC and Operations personnel. When no IC is present the ATS assumes 31 those responsibilities until qualified ground personnel arrive. ATS initial candidates must be 32 qualified as an ATGS Evaluator. This does not preclude the ATS candidate from attending 33 ASM training. 34 The ASM is designed for IA operations, but can provide IMTs with the flexibility of being able 35 to alternate between operational functions until dedicated aerial supervision resources can be 36 assigned to the incident. 37 ASM Resource Status, Ordering, and Identification 38 ASM resource identification and status are reported using the following procedures: 39 IASG 2017 Chapter 2 – Training, Certification, and Currency Page 32 Tactical Aircraft Report – The National Interagency Coordination Center (NICC) and GACC 1 report the status of the ASM crews as a national resource. The ATPs Leadplane Pilot designator 2 is used in conjunction the federal ASM designator to identify the ASM. The State of Alaska 3 ASM designator is A, Alpha. The Forest Service and BLM ASM designator is B (Bravo). The 4 CALFIRE ASM designator is C (Charlie). 5 Resource Ordering – Federal ASMs are a national resource and will be ordered in the same 6 manner as Leadplanes or other national resources. The ATS and Leadplane Pilot should be 7 rostered as subordinates to the aircraft on the resource order. 8 Flight and Duty Day Limitations 9 The ATS, when assigned to an ASM, will have the same flight and duty limitation as the ATP 10 and are considered a crewmember. The ATS will match the ATP tour of duty for consistency 11 and resource availability. 12 ASM Utilization 13 The ASM is a shared national resource and can be utilized in the following capacities: 14 • ASM, Leadplane, ATGS, Detection/Recon, All Risk, FEMA ESF4, etc. 15 Authorized Passengers 16 The following positions are authorized to be on board the aircraft during ASM operations: 17 • Air Tactical Pilot/Air Tactical Pilot Trainee 18 • Evaluator Pilot/Final Evaluator Pilot 19 • ATS/ATS Trainee 20 • Evaluator ATS/Final Evaluator ATS 21 Other passengers must be authorized in writing by the appropriate WO Branch Chief, Pilot 22 Standardization or WO Branch Chief, Aviation Operations (USFS), the National Flight 23 Operations Manager (BLM), or appropriate State Aviation Official and approved by the flight 24 crew. This is generally limited to three total personnel on board the aircraft during low-level 25 ASM mission operations. 26 Initial ASM Training (ATP/ATS) 27 Objective 28 • To establish the qualification and training requirements necessary to perform as an ASM. 29 Nomination 30 • RAO’s/Agency program managers will nominate candidates to attend ASM initial training. 31 Documentation of Training 32 It is the responsibility of the ATS/ATP candidate to maintain and update a training and 33 experience folder which will include: 34 • Course completion certificates. 35 • Certification page of ATGS PTB for ATS. 36 IASG 2017 Chapter 2 – Training, Certification, and Currency Page 33 • Annual update of experience to agency specific Incident Qualification and Certification 1 System. 2 • ATS/ATP Letter of Authorization. 3 Deviations or Exceptions – The WO Branch Chief, Pilot Standardization in coordination with 4 the appropriate RAO and the WO Aerial Supervision Program Manager (USFS), the National 5 Flight Operations Manager (BLM), or appropriate State Aviation Official may authorize 6 deviations or exceptions from the training requirements. Approved deviations or exceptions will 7 be in writing. Documentation will be maintained by the appropriate Agency Official and a copy 8 will be carried in the trainees training folder. 9 ASM Initial/Refresher Course of Instruction 10 Classroom Training 11 • ASM initial is a national level course. 12 Required Classroom Elements 13 • Safety 14 • Tactical Mission CRM 15 • Communications (Tactical) 16 • Aircraft Familiarization/Differences 17 • Tactics (ASM Specific) 18 • Airtanker/ Helicopter Sequencing 19 Optional Classroom Elements 20 • Crew interaction and CRM utilization 21 • Incident Command System-(Aerial Supervision Specific) 22 • Pre-season Update: ( Program Updates/Changes, Expected fire behavior, Long-term weather 23 prognosis) 24 • Additional elements may be added based on national trends and needs 25 • Global Positioning System (GPS)/Radio/Technology- Review 26 Operational Mission Instruction 27 ASM candidates should have a variety of OJT. The following flight training requirements 28 provide guidance for evaluating ASM candidates. Individualized training and evaluation 29 programs should be developed to refine the skills and abilities of each trainee prior to 30 certification. 31 ATS Initial Observation Flights 32 Two observation flights must be completed prior to front seat flight training. One of these flights 33 must occur on a fire mission: 34 • Two simulated missions to occur during ASM Initial. 35 • Initial OJT must occur under the direct supervision of an ATS Evaluator in the same aircraft. 36 • After initial OJT and when mutually agreed upon by the ATP Evaluator and ATS Evaluator 37 an ATS trainee may be authorized to continue training with an ATP Evaluator without an 38 IASG 2017 Chapter 2 – Training, Certification, and Currency Page 34 ATS Evaluator onboard the aircraft. Approval will be made on a case by case basis. A final 1 evaluation must be conducted by an ATS Final Evaluator on board the aircraft. 2 ASM Evaluation 3 The standard method for evaluating ATS performance is an actual or simulated mission utilizing 4 the ASM Mission Evaluation form. 5 Recommended minimum incident complexity for final evaluation: 6 Crew members (ATP & ATS) work load will be balanced and at a tempo that limits verbal 7 communication and requires nonverbal communications be utilized for a portion of the mission. 8 Low-level operations while coordinating a minimum of 2 air tankers and 2 helicopters in 9 collaboration with ground resources shall occur. The ASM crew shall have operational control 10 of the 4 aircraft, working low level on the incident. Demonstrate CRM on a moderate 11 complexity incident. 12 ATS Certification 13 Upon completion of the task book the ATS Final Evaluator will: 14 • Administer a final ASM Mission Evaluation, ensuring successful performance of the ATS 15 (T). 16 • Return the completed task book to the ATS trainee along with recommendations. 17 • Notify the appropriate Agency Program Manager. 18 • The ATS Trainee is responsible for submitting completed PTB, training documentation, and 19 final recommendation to certifying official. 20 • The WO Branch Chief, Pilot Standardization in coordination with the appropriate RAO 21 (USFS), BLM National Flight Operations Manager, or State Aviation Official issues a Letter 22 of Authorization to the employee and supervisor. 23 ATP Certification 24 The ATP Final Evaluator will: 25 • Administer a final ASM Mission Evaluation, ensuring successful performance of 26 the ATP (T). 27 • Notify the appropriate Agency Program Manager. 28 • The ATP Trainee is responsible for submitting training documentation, and final 29 recommendation to certifying official. 30 • The WO Branch Chief, Pilot Standardization in coordination with the appropriate RAO 31 (USFS), BLM National Flight Operations Manager, or State Aviation Official issues a Letter 32 of Authorization to the employee and supervisor. 33 ATS Supplemental Training 34 • Attend professional simulator training as a crew 35 • Agency provided Pinch Hitter Course -(Aircraft Specific) 36 • Private Pilot Ground School/Private Pilot Rating 37 IASG 2017 Chapter 2 – Training, Certification, and Currency Page 35 ASM Currency 1 • 5 ASM missions per year 2 • ATP: ASM missions can be considered Leadplane missions. Leadplane missions do not 3 count toward ATP currency 4 • The annual mission summary will be forwarded to the Agency Program Manager 5 • If currency lapses a final evaluation must be performed on an actual/simulated mission 6 • Attend an ASM refresher triennially 7 1 year lost currency: If the ATS has not met the 5 mission requirement in the previous 12 8 months, attendance to the ASM refresher portion of National Aerial Supervision Training 9 Academy (NASTA) will be required. Classroom participation and 1 front seat role playing 10 mission while being evaluated by a current Evaluator will occur. If the ASM Evaluator notes 11 any non-standard practices or deficiencies additional flights shall occur prior to “recertification” 12 with a current ASM Final Evaluator. A passing “final evaluation” must be documented during 13 ASM initial or on an actual wildfire assignment. 14 2 consecutive years of lost currency: Attendance to the ASM initial portion of NASTA will be 15 required. 8 hour ground school, classroom participation, and 3 hot seat missions while being 16 evaluated. A passing “Final Evaluation” must be documented and forwarded to the appropriate 17 Agency Program Manager for “recertification”. If the evaluation is not successful the ASM 18 Final Evaluator will forward all documentation to the appropriate Agency Program Manager 19 with appropriate recommendations. 20 Quality Assurance: Agency Program Managers may request a Quality Assurance (QA) 21 assessment. QA evaluations may occur during ASM refresher, ASM initial, or over an incident. 22 The request will be made from the program manager to the NASTA course coordinator to 23 describe intent and needs if it needs to occur during NASTA. The course coordinator will 24 facilitate flights to ensure the QA request needs are met on a case by case basis. 25 ASM Deficiencies 26 If an ASM is performing deficiently: 27 • The event will be discussed with the individuals, and documented. Documentation should 28 consist of recommendations on how to bring ASM up to currency standards; additional 29 academics, coaching, mentoring, observations, etc. 30 o The recommendations will be forwarded to the WO Branch Chief, Pilot Standardization 31 and appropriate RAO (USFS), the National Flight Operations Manager (BLM), or 32 appropriate State Aviation Official. The crew may be made unavailable for ASM 33 assignments in the appropriate dispatch/status system. This may not make them 34 individually unavailable for Leadplane or ATGS assignments. 35 Air Tactical Supervisor Coach 36 An ATS Coach serves as a point of contact and SME for the trainee throughout the training 37 process. 38 Position Requirements 39 • Qualified ATS Evaluator 40 IASG 2017 Chapter 2 – Training, Certification, and Currency Page 36 Responsibilities 1 • Help develop a training plan for the candidate. 2 • Coordinate with the Agency Program Manager and Employee Supervisor. 3 • Assure training is on track and that all requirements are being scheduled so as to not delay 4 progress. 5 • Assist with any problems regarding agency and training requirements. 6 • Coaches should be an independent, nonpartisan person outside the employee’s standard chain 7 of command. 8 Air Tactical Supervisor Evaluator 9 ATS Evaluator provides consistent ATS instruction, evaluation, and feedback on ATS missions. 10 Position Requirements 11 • Qualified ATS 12 • AD are authorized for this position providing they meet the position requirements 13 • Maintain ATS currency 14 • Attend ASM Evaluator Workshop 15 • The RAO/Agency Program Manager will track ATS Evaluator 16 Responsibilities 17 • Utilize applicable methods to promote ATS trainee progress and ultimate certification. 18 • Utilize training aids, best practices, forms, and policy documents to maximize the training 19 experience. 20 • Review and complete applicable PTB elements. 21 • Document strengths, area for improvement, and focus areas utilizing the ASM Mission. 22 Evaluation Form. 23 • Provide feedback to the trainee’s supervisor/coach. 24 • Share progress reports with ATS Evaluator community. 25 • Coordinate with trainee’s supervisor to recommend and schedule final evaluation flight). 26 ASM -Evaluator Workshop 27 Objective 28 Prepare ATS/ATP Evaluators to apply current and consistent training procedures. 29 • Target Group – Qualified ATS/ATP 30 • Workshop Instructor Requirement –ATS/ATP Evaluators and Final Evaluators 31 Nomination Process 32 The ATS working group, in conjunction with the WO Branch Chief, Pilot Standardization, 33 appropriate RAO and the WO Aerial Supervision Program Manager (USFS), the National Flight 34 Operations Manager (BLM), or appropriate State Aviation Official will nominate ATS/ATP’s 35 who meet the qualifications and whom they consider to have the experience, aptitude, dedication, 36 and ability to perform the duties of an ATS/ATP Evaluator. 37 IASG 2017 Chapter 2 – Training, Certification, and Currency Page 37 Course Prerequisite 1 Multi-Region experience as a qualified ATS/ATP 2 Course Level 3 National Interagency 4 Course Content 5 • Instructional methods 6 • Utilization of the ASM Mission Evaluation Form 7 • Mission flights 8 • Lecture 9 • STEX 10 • AAR 11 • Standardization of instruction 12 • CRM/Human Factors – How to provide constructive criticism 13 • Training Aids 14 • Policy 15 Air Tactical Supervisor Final Evaluator 16 ATS Final Evaluators provide final ATS trainee evaluation and complete Final Evaluator 17 verification page in the ATS PTB. 18 Position Requirements 19 • 1 Year of experience ATS Evaluator. 20 • AD employees are NOT authorized to perform this function. 21 • Maintain ATS currency. 22 • Attend ASM Final Evaluator Workshop. 23 • The WO Branch Chief, Pilot Standardization in coordination with the appropriate RAO 24 (USFS), the National Flight Operations Manager (BLM), or appropriate State Aviation 25 Official will provide a letter of authorization to the ATS Final Evaluator upon completion of 26 the requisite training. 27 Responsibilities 28 • Coordinate with ATS Evaluator and trainee’s supervisor to schedule and implement a final 29 evaluation. 30 • Perform final evaluation and complete ASM Mission Evaluation form. 31 • Complete the PTB. 32 • Review evaluation with ATS Trainee. 33 • Contact Trainees supervisor and review the final evaluation. 34 IASG 2017 Chapter 2 – Training, Certification, and Currency Page 38 ASM- Final Evaluator Workshop 1 Objective 2 Prepare ATS/ATP Final Evaluators to apply current and consistent training procedures. 3 • Target Group: Qualified ATS/ATP Evaluator 4 • Workshop Instructor Requirement –ATS/ATP Evaluators and Final Evaluators 5 Nomination Process 6 The ATS working group, in conjunction with the WO Branch Chief, Pilot Standardization, 7 appropriate RAO and the WO Aerial Supervision Program Manager (USFS), the National Flight 8 Operations Manager (BLM), or appropriate State Aviation Official will nominate ATS/ATP’s 9 who meet the qualifications and whom they consider to have the experience, aptitude, dedication, 10 and ability to perform the duties of an ATS/ATP Final Evaluator. 11 Course Prerequisite 12 Multi-region experience as a qualified ATS/ATP Evaluator. 13 Course Level 14 National Interagency 15 Course Content 16 • Instructional methods 17 • Utilization of the ASM Mission Evaluation Form 18 • Mission flights 19 • Lecture 20 • STEX 21 • AAR 22 • Standardization of instruction 23 • CRM/Human Factors – How to provide constructive criticism 24 • Training Aids 25 o Policy 26 Air Tactical Pilot Evaluator 27 ATP Evaluator provides consistent ATP instruction, evaluation, and feedback on ASM missions. 28 Position Requirements 29 • 1 Year following ATP qualification while maintaining currency. 30 • Attend ASM Evaluator Workshop. 31 • Pass an oral evaluation from an ATP Final Evaluator. 32 • Pass a flight evaluation from an ATP Final Evaluator. 33 • Maintain ATP currency. 34 • The WO Branch Chief, Pilot Standardization in coordination with the appropriate RAO 35 (USFS), the National Flight Operations Manager (BLM), or appropriate State Aviation 36 Official will provide a letter of authorization to the ATP Evaluator upon completion of the 37 requisite training. 38 IASG 2017 Chapter 2 – Training, Certification, and Currency Page 39 Responsibilities 1 • Utilize applicable methods to promote ATP trainee progress and ultimate certification. 2 • Utilize training aids, best practices, forms, and policy documents to maximize the training 3 experience. 4 • Review and complete applicable PTB elements. 5 • Review document strengths, area for improvement, and focus areas utilizing the ASM 6 Mission. 7 Evaluation Form. 8 • Provide feedback to the trainee’s supervisor/coach. 9 • Share progress reports with ATP Evaluator community. 10 • Coordinate with trainee’s supervisor to recommend and schedule final evaluation flight). 11 Air Tactical Pilot Final Evaluator 12 ATP Final Evaluators provide final ATP trainee evaluation. 13 Position Requirements 14 • 1 Year of experience as an ATP. 15 • Attend ASM Final Evaluator Workshop. 16 • Pass an oral evaluation from an ATP Final Evaluator. 17 • Pass a flight evaluation from an ATP Final Evaluator. 18 • Maintain ATP currency. 19 • The WO Branch Chief, Pilot Standardization in coordination with the RAO (USFS), the 20 National Flight Operations Manager (BLM), or appropriate State Aviation Official will 21 provide a letter of authorization to the ATP Final Evaluator upon completion of the 22 requisite training. 23 Responsibilities 24 • Coordinate with ATP’s supervisor to schedule and implement a final evaluation. 25 • Perform final evaluation and complete ASM Mission Evaluation form. 26 • Review evaluation with ATP Trainee. 27 • Contact Trainees supervisor and review the final evaluation. 28 IASG 2017 Chapter 3 – Policies, Regulations, and Guidelines Page 41 Chapter 3 – Policies, Regulations, and Guidelines 1 Incident aviation operations are often conducted under adverse flight conditions. Congested 2 airspace, reduced visibility, poor weather and mountainous terrain all add risk and complexity to 3 incident aerial supervision operations. Complexity dictates the level of supervision required to 4 safely and effectively conduct aerial operations. Aerial supervision may be provided by a 5 Leadplane, ATCO, ASM, ATGS or HLCO as individual resources or in any combination based 6 on ICS models. 7 Retardant Operations and Low Light Conditions (Sunrise/Sunset) 8 Multi-engine airtankers shall be dispatched to arrive over a fire (with no aerial supervision on 9 scene) not earlier than 30 minutes after official sunrise and not later than 30 minutes before 10 official sunset. Retardant operations will only be conducted during daylight hours. Retardant 11 operations are permitted after official sunset, but must have concurrence by the involved flight 12 crews. In addition, aerial supervision (Lead, ATCO, ASM, or ATGS) must be on scene. 13 Daylight hours are defined as 30 minutes prior to sunrise until 30 minutes after sunset as noted in 14 the table below. Multi-engine aircraft empty of retardant may fly to assigned bases after daylight 15 hours. 16 Figure 3. Multi-engine Airtanker Startup and Cutoff Regulations 17 In Alaska an airtanker pilot shall not be authorized to drop retardant during periods outside of 18 civil twilight (see glossary). 19 • Single-engine airtankers (SEATs) and helicopters are limited to flight during official daylight 20 hours. 21 • If approved by an agency, turbine helicopters (single and multi-engine) may operate at night. 22 Flight crews might experience late dawn or early dusk conditions based on terrain features 23 and sun angle, and flight periods should be adjusted accordingly. Daylight hours may be 24 further limited at the discretion of the pilot, aviation manager, ATGS, ASM, or Leadplane 25 because of low visibility conditions caused by smoke, shadows or other environmental 26 factors. 27 IASG 2017 Chapter 3 – Policies, Regulations, and Guidelines Page 42 Aerial Supervision Requirements 1 When aerial supervision resources are co-located with retardant aircraft, they will be launched 2 together on the initial order to maximize safety, effectiveness, and efficiency of incident 3 operations. Incidents with three or more aircraft assigned will have aerial supervision ordered. 4 Federal policy dictates additional requirements as listed below. 5 Table 1. Incident Aerial Supervision Requirements 6 • Required: Aerial supervisory resource(s) shall be over the incident when specified air tactical 7 operations are being conducted. 8 Incident Aerial Supervision Requirements ***ASM can perform all LEAD missions. SITUATION HLCO LEAD ATGS / ASM*** Three or more aircraft assigned to incident If no ATGS AND only rotor wing If no ATGS AND only fixed-wing ORDERED Airtanker (Multi-Engine) Drops conducted between 30 minutes prior to, and 30 minutes after sunrise, or 30 minutes prior to sunset to 30 minutes after sunset. N/A REQUIRED IF NO ATGS REQUIRED IF NO LEAD MAFFS / VLAT N/A REQUIRED N/A Airtanker not IA carded N/A REQUIRED N/A Level 2 SEAT operating on an incident with more than one other tactical aircraft on scene. N/A REQUIRED IF NO ATGS REQUIRED IF NO LEAD Foreign Government Aircraft N/A REQUIRED IF NO ATGS REQUIRED IF NO LEAD Congested Area Fight Operations CONSIDER ON ORDER REQUIRED Periods of marginal weather, poor visibility or turbulence. REQUIRED IF NOT ATGS REQUIRED IF NO ATGS REQUIRED Military Helicopter Operations ON ORDER N/A REQUIRED Night Helicopter water dropping operations with 2 or more helicopters. N/A N/A ORDERED When requested by airtanker, helicopters, ATGS, Lead, ATCO, or ASM. REQUIRED REQUIRED REQUIRED IASG 2017 Chapter 3 – Policies, Regulations, and Guidelines Page 43 • Ordered: Aerial supervisory resources shall be ordered by the controlling entity (Air tactical 1 operations may be continued while the aerial supervision resource is enroute to the incident. 2 Operations can be continued if the resource is not available.) 3 • Assigned: Tactical resource allocated to an incident. The resource may be flying enroute to 4 and from, or on hold at a ground site. 5 N/A: Not authorized or applicable to the level of supervision required for the 6 misson/resource. 7 Note: A qualified smokejumper spotter (senior smokejumper in charge of smokejumper 8 missions) may “coordinate” with on-scene aircraft over a fire until a qualified ATGS arrives. 9 Foreign Government Aircraft on United States Incidents 10 Under international cooperative agreements the US. Department of Agriculture (USDA)-USFS, 11 DOI-BLM and state agencies may enlist the assistance of Canadian air tactical resources on 12 United States’ incidents. A Canadian Air Attack Officer flying in a Bird Dog or Leadplane 13 aircraft will normally be assigned with Canadian airtankers. The Canadian airtanker 14 communications system is compatible with USDA-USFS and DOI Systems. Aerial supervisors 15 assigned to these incidents will adhere to the following policies and guidelines: 16 Incidents on Federal Lands 17 • Aerial Supervision shall be assigned to the incident as outlined in the Incident Aerial 18 Supervision Requirements table in this chapter. 19 • A U.S. ATGS, ASM, or Leadplane shall supervise Canadian airtankers. In the absence of a 20 Leadplane or ASM, the Canadian Air Attack Officer/Bird Dog is authorized to direct 21 airtanker drops and function as ATGS (after completing an orientation). 22 Deviations from this policy must be specifically approved by the appropriate agency. 23 • Airtanker Reloads – The reload base for Canadian airtankers shall be determined by the 24 originating dispatch. 25 • Canadian airtanker pilots shall be briefed on standard drop height minimums as they 26 normally drop from lower heights. 27 • Canadian airtankers and helicopters operating on federal lands will be managed in the same 28 manner as United States resources. 29 Incidents on Cooperator Lands 30 When an ATGS, ASM or Lead are assigned to a cooperator incident employing Canadian air 31 resources; the incident will be managed as outlined in above in this chapter. 32 Authorization to Lead United States Airtankers 33 Canadian Air Attack Officers/Bird Dogs are NOT authorized to “lead” U.S. airtankers. 34 Flight Condition Guidelines 35 Aerial Supervision personnel must carefully evaluate flight hazards, conditions (visibility, wind, 36 thunder cells, turbulence, and terrain) to ensure that operations can be conducted in a safe and 37 effective manner. The following policies and guidelines are designed to do this: 38 IASG 2017 Chapter 3 – Policies, Regulations, and Guidelines Page 44 Visibility 1 Regardless of time of day, when poor visibility precludes safe operations, flights will be 2 suspended. It is recommended that all incident aircraft fly with landing and strobe lights on at all 3 times. It is required that Leadplanes fly with landing and strobe lights on at all times. Regular 4 position reporting is critical in marginal visibility conditions. 5 Night 6 Night air operations are approved by the Forest Service. Night air operations will be conducted 7 in Visual Flight Rules (VFR) conditions only. Night air operations aircraft should avoid fog and 8 smoke. Flights may need to be suspended if smoke or fog effect safe operations. All night air 9 operations aircraft shall fly with landing and strobe lights on. Regular position reporting is 10 critical during night air operations. Reference USFS Night Air Operations Plan. 11 Hazardous Conditions 12 Moderate to high winds and turbulent conditions affect flight safety and water/retardant drop 13 effectiveness. A number of factors including terrain, fuel type, target location, resources at risk, 14 cross- winds, etc., must be considered. When safety-of-flight is or may be compromised, 15 water/retardant drops become ineffective, or at pilot recommendation aerial operations should 16 cease. Refer to the Incident Response Pocket Guide (IRPG) PMS 461 refusal of risk process. 17 Evaluate thunderstorm and other hazardous weather activity for flight safety. Erratic winds, 18 lightning, hail, and diminished visibility adversely affect aviation operations. Consider delaying 19 operations or reassigning resources to safe operation areas. Suspend flight operations when 20 lightning or other adverse weather conditions are present. Further reading: Interagency Aviation 21 Accident Prevention Bulletin 13-04, MAFFS operations plan, Federal Aviation Regulations 22 (FAR)/Aeronautical Information Manual. 23 Note: Any Aerial Supervisor, pilot, or ground resource can halt operations to mitigate risk or 24 hazardous situations. 25 Air Attack Pilot Policy 26 Pilots flying air tactical missions must be Agency approved. Pilot cards must be checked prior to 27 air tactical missions. 28 Air Attack Pilot Approval 29 Aerial supervision pilots (for ATGS or HLCO) shall be inspected and approved annually by a 30 qualified Forest Service or Office of Aviation Services (OAS) Pilot Inspector. Qualification for 31 air tactical missions shall be indicated on the back side of the Airplane Pilot Qualification Card. 32 Pilot Orientation and Training 33 Prior to flying their initial air tactical mission, preferably pre-season, the pilot shall receive 34 a basic orientation/training from a qualified ATGS. As a minimum, the following shall 35 be covered: 36 • General scope of the mission 37 • Incident air organization – emphasis on ATGS, ASM and HLCO roles 38 • Specific responsibilities of the ATGS 39 IASG 2017 Chapter 3 – Policies, Regulations, and Guidelines Page 45 • Specific responsibilities and expectations of the ATGS pilot 1 • Air resources commonly assigned to, or present on, the type of incident 2 • Communications hardware, procedures, protocol and frequency management 3 • Air space management Temporary Flight Restrictions (TFRs), flight patterns, etc.) 4 • Operations safety 5 • Standard Operating Procedures 6 • Fuel management 7 • Dispatch readiness, availability for duty 8 • Records 9 Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Policy 10 The following PPE is required for all interagency ATGS operations (ATGS and Pilot): 11 • Leather or Nomex® shoes 12 • Full length cotton or Nomex® pants or a flight suit 13 • Cotton or Nomex® shirt 14 The following PPE is required for all interagency HLCO operations (HLCO and Pilot): 15 • Leather or Nomex® shoes 16 • Pants and Long Sleeve Shirt made of Nomex® or a flight suit 17 • Leather or Nomex ® Gloves 18 • Flight Helmet 19 Leadplane and ASM 20 • Policy – The use of PPE by personnel engaged in Leadplane/ASM operations is required as 21 per agency policy. This requirement is stated in various publications, including the USDA 22 Safety and Health Handbook, FSH 6709.11, Chapter 3, the DOI Safety and Health 23 Handbook, 485 DM, Chapter 20, and both departments Aircraft Accident Prevention Plans. 24 Specific requirements for PPE differ slightly among organizations. A complete text of 25 requirements can be found in DOI Departmental Manual (351 DM 1). 26 Requirements 27 • Flight Suit – One-piece fire-resistant polyamide or aramid material or equal. The useof 28 wildland firefighter Nomex® shirts and trousers (two-piece) is authorized. 29 • Protective Footgear – Leather boots shall extend above the ankle. Such boots may not have 30 synthetic insert panels (such as jungle boots). 31 • Gloves – Gloves made of polyamide or aramid material or all leather gloves, without 32 synthetic liners. Leather gloves must cover wrist and allow required finger dexterity. 33 • Flight Helmets – Aerial Supervision from helicopters requires a flight helmet. 34 Oxygen Requirements 35 Flights must comply with the FAA regulations they operate under. 36 IASG 2017 Chapter 3 – Policies, Regulations, and Guidelines