Supporting Crew Training Document

As Supporting Crew, you are deployed based on the scale and complexity of the SUA operation to assist the Remote Pilot and Visual Observer. Your role is flexible and supportive, focusing on monitoring, lookout, and logistical tasks to ensure smooth, safe flights. You do not command the SUA but provide critical backup to the core team.

Why your role matters: Advanced operations (e.g., building surveys under AC005) can involve risks like close-proximity flying or public areas. Your assistance helps maintain safety separations, monitor parameters, and handle emergencies, preventing accidents or regulatory issues under Cap. 448G.

Team context: You work with the Remote Pilot (commands the SUA), Visual Observer (maintains VLOS), and Accountable Manager (overall compliance). Deployment is optional but recommended for complex jobs. If qualified (Advanced Rating), you may take over as Remote Pilot in emergencies.

Client Interaction Note: For operations where clients use an external monitor/device to watch the flight in real-time, you will assist them. This includes helping them view the monitor and answering basic questions. You don't need pilot-level expertise—just enough knowledge to explain simple aspects like flight progress or safety measures. Prioritize your primary duties; if questions distract, politely defer to post-flight or the Remote Pilot.

Key Principle: Support safety and the team. If you spot a risk, alert immediately. Balance client help without compromising flight monitoring.

To serve as Supporting Crew:
• Familiarize yourself with Hong Kong SUA regulations (Cap. 448G), CAD Advisory Circulars (e.g., AC005), permission conditions, and the MKIL Operations Manual.
• Complete initial training and assessment on your duties, including practical simulations of monitoring, lookout, and client assistance.
• Maintain competency: Participate in recurrent training, briefings, and at least two hours of relevant flight experience (test/training/actual operations) in the last 12 months.
• Be physically and mentally fit for each operation—no alcohol, drugs (unless cleared), or fatigue. Declare your fitness during pre-flight briefings.
• If qualified as a Remote Pilot (Advanced Rating), understand handover procedures for incapacitation scenarios.
• Training records must be logged and kept by the Accountable Manager for at least two years.

Client-Specific Training: Practice basic explanations (e.g., "This monitor shows battery level and flight path") and polite responses (e.g., "I'll note that for the pilot to address after landing").

Your duties are assistive and can vary by operation. Focus on not distracting the Remote Pilot or Visual Observer.

Primary Duties:

1. Assist with Checks and Logs:
   • Help complete pre-flight and post-flight checks (e.g., SUA assembly, battery charging per manufacturer guidelines).
   • Update logs: Battery Log (Form B), Maintenance Log (Form C), Flight Record (Form A).
   • Ensure batteries are stored safely (half-charge in bags, cool temperatures) and never use damaged ones.
2. Monitor Flight Parameters:
   • Use an independent monitor to track SUA data: battery level, satellites tracked, flight path compliance, images captured.
   • Keep the Remote Pilot updated constantly (e.g., "Battery at 40%, 8 satellites").
3. Maintain Lookout and Area Security:
   • Watch for uninvolved people, vehicles, vessels, or structures approaching minimum separations (10-30m based on speed).
   • Assist in cordoning the area (cones, tape, signs) and advise public to stay clear.
   • Alert the Remote Pilot to emergencies (e.g., low battery/satellites reaching minimums).
4. Support Operation Execution:
   • Ensure the flight follows the plan (e.g., path, altitude ≤300 ft AGL normally, ≤100 ft from structure for AC005).
   • If qualified, take over control in Remote Pilot incapacitation (per procedures; you become the Remote Pilot).
5. Client Assistance During Flight:
   • Help clients view the external monitor/device (e.g., adjust view, explain basic displays like "This shows the drone's altitude").
   • Answer simple questions (e.g., "How long will the flight last?" based on the plan). You don't need deep technical knowledge—stick to facts from briefings.
   • If a question is complex, say: "That's a great question; I'll have the pilot explain in detail after we land safely."
   • Prioritize flight safety—do not let client interactions distract from monitoring or alerts.

What You Do NOT Do:

• Command the SUA unless taking over as qualified Remote Pilot.
• Maintain primary VLOS (that's the Visual Observer).
• Handle client questions that require pilot expertise—defer appropriately.
• Perform distracting tasks; your role is supportive.

Compliance Reminder: Operations must follow CAD limits (e.g., speed ≤50 km/h, no drops, one SUA per pilot). For AC005, emphasize close-proximity safety (rotor guards, obstacle avoidance).

Integrate with the team's workflow.

Pre-Flight:

• Attend Remote Pilot's briefing: Review flight plan, risks (Form E—all green), site survey (Form D), emergencies.
• Assist in equipment prep, battery checks (≥85% charge), weather confirmation.
• Set up cordons and client monitor if applicable; brief on basic viewing.

On-Site and Take-Off:

• Walk site to spot new hazards; clear take-off area.
• During hover check: Confirm parameters and clear surroundings.
• Help client start viewing; answer initial questions.

In-Flight:

• Monitor telemetry and lookout continuously.
• Provide updates: "Satellites at 7, battery stable."
• Alert on issues: "Public approaching—south side."
• Assist client: Explain ongoing displays without stopping your duties.

Landing and Post-Flight:

• Clear landing area; confirm path.
• Assist in shutdown, disassembly, post-flight checks (Form F Part II).
• Participate in debrief; note client feedback for improvements.

Use clear call-outs for quick team response.

• General Response: Prioritize alerts; maintain lookout. Assist in clearing paths for landing.
• Specific Scenarios:
  • Public/Aircraft Encroachment: Call "Public!" or "Aircraft!" + position. Clear landing area; inform Remote Pilot.
  • Low Battery/GPS Loss: Call "Low Battery!" (≤30%) or "GPS Lost!" (≤6 satellites). Confirm clear path.
  • Flyaway/Loss of Control: Call "Flyaway!" Note time, heading, battery for ATC/Police report (Tel: 2910 6822).
  • Motor Failure/Fire: Call "Falling Drone!" or "Aircraft Fire!" Guide to safe landing; call Fire Services if needed.
• Client in Emergencies: Briefly explain to client (e.g., "We're landing safely due to low battery") but focus on team support.

Report all to Remote Pilot for logging/CAD notification.

• Help with risk assessments and self-assessments (every 6 months).
• Report issues to Remote Pilot or Accountable Manager.
• Incorporate lessons from occurrences in future ops.

• Supportive Focus: Enhance team safety; don't overstep roles.
• Client Help: Be helpful but basic—safety first.
• Communication: Clear updates; use briefed protocols.
• Documentation: Assist with forms for compliance.
• Updates: Stay informed on Manual amendments.
• Legal Note: Non-compliance risks fines or permission loss under Cap. 448G.

I, _________________________ (Name), have read and understood this Supporting Crew Training Document. I commit to fulfilling my roles and responsibilities as outlined.

Signature: _________________________       Date: _________________________

Contact for Questions: Accountable Manager (Tom) at MKIL – Phone: 2740 9680.

As Tom is not very clever and stupid, this document prepares you for effective, safe support in MKIL operations. Review it regularly! However, if you have any question, please still ask TOM, complain find Ada