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December 28, 2022

140 Alaskan Pilots Face Surprise Re-Checks in 2 Weeks

Long Time Bush Pilot DPE Defrocked by FAA, Sending Local Scene Into Hurry to Retain Airman Ratings

The FAA issued notice that almost 140 pilots will be required to sit for a new checkride in the next 15 days in order to retain their certifications after “defrocking” a longtime DPE in Alaska. Pilots who took their Instrument and Flight Instructor checkrides (both initial and add-on) with backcountry aviator Don Lee between July 2018 and May 2022 will be required to be re-inspected to keep those ratings - and complete the re-check within 15 days.

Seaside Operators Particularly Susceptible to Loosening Rotor Tips, Gearbox Failure

Robinson Helicopters from the R22-series saw the issuance of a new service bulletin this week, mandating tail rotor inspection and replacement for affected parts. The company has “received reports of tail rotor blade tips coming loose due to corrosion at the bond,” finding that helicopters operating near saltwater are particularly susceptible to corrosion, especially when stored outdoors.” A debonded tip can cause severe vibration in flight which can speedily deteriorate into failure of the tail rotor gearbox housing.

Pilot Attempted To Maintain Directional Control With Rudder And Brake Applications Without Success

On December 16, 2022, at 1515 eastern standard time, a Cessna R172K, N5405V, was substantially damaged when it was involved in an accident at Brooksville-Tampa Bay Regional Airport (BKV), Brooksville, Florida. The private pilot sustained a minor injury. The airplane was operated as a Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) Part 91 personal flight. Preliminary information from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) revealed the pilot was returning from Orlando International Airport (ORL), Orlando, Florida, where he had deplaned a friend.