AMC1 SPA.LVO.120(b) Flight crew competence

CAA ORS9 Decision No. 47

Text in magenta in force from 30 October 2025

INITIAL TRAINING FOR LVTO IN AN RVR LESS THAN 400 M

The operator should ensure that the flight crew members have completed the following training and checking prior to being authorised to conduct take-offs in an RVR below 400 m unless credits related to training and checking for previous experience in LVTOs on similar aircraft types are defined in the operational suitability data established in accordance with UK Regulation (EU) No 748/2012:

  1. A ground training course including at least the following:

    1. characteristics of fog;

    2. effects of precipitation, ice accretion, low-level wind shear and turbulence;

    3. the effect of specific aircraft/system malfunctions;

    4. the use and limitations of RVR assessment systems;

    5. procedures to be followed and precautions to be taken with regard to surface movement during operations when the RVR is 400 m or less and any additional procedures required for take-off in conditions below 150 m;

    6. qualification requirements for pilots to obtain and retain approval to conduct LVOs; and

    7. the importance of correct seating and eye position.

  2. A course of FSTD/flight training covering system failures and engine failures resulting in continued as well as rejected take-offs. Such training should include at least:

    1. normal take-off in minimum approved RVR conditions;

    2. take-off in minimum approved RVR conditions with an engine failure:

      1. for aeroplanes, between V1 and V2 (take-off safety speed) or as soon as safety considerations permit; and

      2. for helicopters, at or after the take-off decision point (TDP); and

    3. take-off in minimum approved RVR conditions with an engine failure:

      1. for aeroplanes, before V1 resulting in a rejected take-off; and

      2. for helicopters, before the TDP.

  3. The operator approved for LVTOs with an RVR below 150 m should ensure that the training specified in (b) is carried out in an FSTD. This training should include the use of any special procedures and equipment.

  4. The operator should ensure that a flight crew member has completed a check, carried out in an FSTD, before conducting LVTOs in RVRs of less than 150 m. The check should require the execution of:

    1. at least one LVTO in the minimum approved visibility; and

    2. at least one rejected take-off at minimum approved RVR.

    For pilots with previous experience with an EU operator of LVTOs in RVRs of less than 150 m, the check may be replaced by successful completion of the FSTD and/or flight training specified in (a), (b) and (c).