JARUS Rules on Unmanned Helo Certification Requirements



On 4 Nov., the Joint Authorities for Rulemaking on Unmanned Systems published its first set of civil certification requirements for remotely piloted aircraft systems. 



These certification requirements are for unmanned rotocraft systems with a maximum takeoff weight of 750 kilograms (1,653 pounds). The rules will help aid in the transitioning period for RPAS use in public airspace, according to a JARUS press release. 



The document emphasizes safety and points out that all rotorcraft must be able to make smooth transitions between flight conditions without exceptional piloting skill, alertness or strength on the part of the operator. The document limits the aircraft airworthiness to normal operations and excludes human transport, flight in icing conditions and any aerobatics. It does account for internal and external loads, like payloads or cargo. 



The rules also detail flight crew requirements so the individual workload of a crew is safe for operations. The kinds of operations the systems can handle and the altitude the systems can fly at are established as part of the certification process, though the document says the airworthiness code is limited to day/night visual line of sight operations. 



The RPAS’ communication system must include a command and control data link subsystem and an air traffic control communication subsystem. In the event of a lost link, the JARUS requirements state the operating crew must have a strategy detailed in the UAS flight manual. The document also covers loss of electric power and loss of all engines emergency strategies. 



JARUS is interested in the public’s feedback and will be seeking insight for the new regulations. Feedback can be left online through forms created related to this document. 



To download the document and read the full requirements, click here.