SPA.HOFO.160 Equipment requirements

SI 2022 No. 1235

(a) The operator shall comply with the following equipment requirements:

(1)  Public Address (PA) system in helicopters used for CAT and non-commercial operations with complex motor-powered helicopters (NCC):

(i)  Helicopters with a maximum operational passenger seat configuration (MOPSC) of more than 9 shall be equipped with a PA system.

(ii)  Helicopters with an MOPSC of 9 or less need not be equipped with a PA system if the operator can demonstrate that the pilot’s voice is understandable at all passengers’ seats in flight.

(2) Radio altimeter

 Helicopters shall be equipped with a radio altimeter that is capable of emitting an audio warning below a pre-set height and a visual warning at a height selectable by the pilot.

(b) Emergency exits

All emergency exits, including crew emergency exits, and any door, window or other opening that is suitable for emergency egress, and the means for opening them shall be clearly marked for the guidance of occupants using them in daylight or in the dark. Such markings shall be designed to remain visible if the helicopter is capsized or the cabin is submerged.

(c) Helicopter terrain awareness and warning system (HTAWS)

(1) Helicopters used in CAT operations with a maximum certificated take-off mass of more than 3175 kg or a MOPSC of more than 9 and first issued with an individual C of A after 31 December 2018 shall be equipped with an HTAWS provides classic mode functionality and meets an acceptable standard.

(2) From 1 January 2025, helicopters used in CAT operations with a maximum certificated take-off mass of more than 3175 kg or a MOPSC of more than 9 and first issued with an individual C of A after 31 December 1999 shall be equipped with an HTAWS configured for offshore operations as specified in an acceptable standard.