FAA Updates Policy on Helicopter Air Ambulance Operations

The most recent version of the FAA’s Order N 8900.289, OpSpec A021, Helicopter Air Ambulance (HAA) Operations, became effective March 18. The new order provides guidance for operations under Part 135, as well as for Part 91 letter of authorization (LOA) helicopter operators. It was updated due to an increase in fatal helicopter accidents, particularly among helicopter air ambulance operations.

On Feb. 20, 2014, the FAA also implemented a comprehensive package of regulatory updates and several new sections to Parts 91, 120 and 135. The updates require increased Class G weather minimums, new operational procedures and additional equipment for HAA operations and other helicopter operations that become effective April 22, 2015, unless otherwise noted.

The final rule package requires implementation of risk-analysis procedures for all HAA operators, implementation of operations control centers and operations control specialists for larger HAA operators, training of medical personnel and installation of equipment. It revises pilot testing, rules for alternate airports and procedures for instrument flight and transitions between visual and instrument conditions and flight rules. The new rule increases weather minimums for all helicopter operations. Many of these requirements address NTSB safety recommendations.