IFALPA/AusALPA/AFAP HELICOPTER SAFETY & TECHNICAL UPDATE
Report from Captain Matthew Nielsen – For AFAP Members
Captain Matthew Nielsen recently represented AFAP at the IFALPA Helicopter (HEL) Committee Meeting in Madrid, where international helicopter specialists met to discuss emerging safety, regulatory and technical priorities for the global rotary sector. The themes raised are highly relevant to Australian operations and align closely with the issues the AusALPA/ AFAP continues to advocate for on behalf of our helicopter members.
Technical Crew Standards Strengthened
ICAO has now formally recognised Helicopter Technical Crew Members (TCMs) within its Standards and Recommended Practices (SARPs). New guidance is being developed to define minimum requirements for fatigue limits, training, medical standards (including colour and stereo vision), CRM, survival skills and operational competencies. This is an important global shift that supports AFAP’s ongoing efforts to ensure TCMs are treated as fully recognised safety‑critical crew.
All Weather Operations – Significant Modernisation Underway
ICAO is progressing new All-Weather Operations guidance that will shape future helicopter access to busy and congested airspace. This includes low‑level IFR networks, point‑in‑space approaches, and future SBAS/GBAS capabilities. The work is partly driven by increasing drone and Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) activity. Ensuring helicopter operators retain safe access and priority during this transition is a key focus.
Safety Technologies Under Review
The Committee discussed several areas where new safety mandates may emerge internationally. Topics included updates to HTAWS (Helicopter Terrain Awareness and Warning Systems), improved ACAS/TCAS performance (Airborne Collision Avoidance System / Traffic Collision Avoidance System), stronger transponder requirements, and potential future use of synthetic or enhanced vision systems in relevant operations. These discussions reflect ongoing concerns around CFIT and mid-air collision risks in the rotary sector.
Fatigue Management – Opportunity for Real Change
Fatigue in helicopter operations was a major theme, with ICAO indicating readiness to revisit mixed airline/helicopter FRMS guidance. This represents the best opportunity in years to address helicopter‑specific fatigue factors such as vibration exposure, long readiness periods, trauma exposure in HEMS/SAR, temperature issues, and solitary duty cycles. AusALPA/AFAP, through IFALPA, will continue advocating for science‑based fatigue protections that reflect the realities of rotary operations.
Emergency Flotation Systems & Sea State Risks
Concerns were raised about operations taking place in sea states beyond the capability of existing emergency flotation systems. IFALPA is preparing a position calling for improved risk assessments and the development of flotation systems designed for real operational conditions.
Airborne Image Recorders – IFALPA Reaffirms Opposition
With some manufacturers installing airborne image recorders (AIRs), IFALPA confirmed its stance opposing cockpit cameras due to privacy risks, misuse, and limited safety benefit. This remains a key protection for flight crew globally.
Pilot Age Discussions Continue
Debate continues internationally regarding raising the pilot age limit beyond 65. No clear safety case has been established, and helicopter‑specific risk factors require careful review. IFALPA will prepare further analysis before forming a final position.
The meeting also covered obstacle lighting standards, NVIS compatibility, cabin air quality concerns and national updates from pilot associations worldwide. AFAP’s participation ensures that Australian helicopter pilots continue to have a strong voice in shaping global helicopter safety and technical policy.
A more detailed summary and all meeting documents are available via technical@afap.org.au