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This Subpart prescribes the instruments and equipment required, in addition to Part 91, for helicopters carrying an external load.
(a) Each operator performing a helicopter external load operation must ensure that a flight does not commence unless the instruments and equipment, required by this Subpart—
(1) comply with the specifications and airworthiness design standards listed in—
(i) this Subpart; or
(ii) alternative specifications or standards approved by the Director for the operation; and
(2) are installed in accordance with the requirements applicable to them, including operational and airworthiness requirements; and
(3) are in operable condition and in the numbers required for the kind of operation being conducted.
An operator performing a helicopter external load operation must ensure that the helicopter is equipped with—
(1) a cargo hook, or similar device, approved by the helicopter manufacturer for use on the helicopter, or approved and installed in accordance with a design change under Subpart C of Part 21; and
(2) external load equipment that—
(i) is appropriate and of a standard that prevents breakage to it or damage to the helicopter; and
(ii) when a person is carried using the equipment, can withstand a loading of 3.75 times the weight of the load.
(a) Each operator performing a helicopter external load operation must ensure the helicopter has—
(1) an electrical quick release device; and
(2) a mechanical or independent electrical quick release device.
(b) The operator must ensure that the quick release devices required by paragraph (a) function properly with all external loads up to and including the helicopter’s maximum external load.
(c) The operator must ensure that the quick release system—
(1) has a primary control—
(i) installed on one of the pilot’s primary flight controls; and
(ii) designed and located so that it may be operated by the pilot without limiting the pilot’s ability to control the helicopter during an emergency situation; and
(2) has a secondary control readily accessible to a crew member.
