14 CFR §133.41
Verified against eCFR.gov as of June 20, 2026View official text on eCFR.gov ↗
- (a)The applicant must demonstrate to the Administrator, by performing the operational flight checks prescribed in paragraphs (b), (c), and (d) of this section, as applicable, that the rotorcraft-load combination has satisfactory flight characteristics, unless these operational flight checks have been demonstrated previously and the rotorcraft-load combination flight characteristics were satisfactory. For the purposes of this demonstration, the external-load weight (including the external-load attaching means) is the maximum weight for which authorization is requested.
- (b)Class A rotorcraft-load combinations: The operational flight check must consist of at least the following maneuvers:
- (c)Class B and D rotorcraft-load combinations: The operational flight check must consist of at least the following maneuvers:
- (1)Pickup of the external load.
- (2)Demonstration of adequate directional control while hovering.
- (3)Acceleration from a hover.
- (4)Horizontal flight at airspeeds up to the maximum airspeed for which authorization is requested.
- (5)Demonstrating appropriate lifting device operation.
- (6)Maneuvering of the external load into release position and its release, under probable flight operation conditions, by means of each of the quick-release controls installed on the rotorcraft.
- (d)Class C rotorcraft-load combinations: For Class C rotorcraft-load combinations used in wire-stringing, cable-laying, or similar operations, the operational flight check must consist of the maneuvers, as applicable, prescribed in paragraph (c) of this section.