BFCL.115  BPL – Privileges and conditions

Regulation (EU) 2020/357

(a) The privileges of a BPL holder are to act as PIC in balloons:

(1) without remuneration in non-commercial operations;

(2) in commercial operations if he or she holds a commercial operation rating in accordance with point BFCL.215 of Subpart ADD of this Annex.

(b) By way of derogation from paragraph (a)(1), a BPL holder who has instructor or examiner privileges may receive remuneration for:

(1) the provision of flight instruction for the BPL;

(2) the conduct of skill tests and proficiency checks for the BPL;

(3) the training, testing and checking for the privileges, ratings and certificates attached to a BPL.

(c) BPL holders shall exercise BPL privileges only if they comply with the applicable recency requirements and only if their medical certificate, appropriate to the privileges exercised, is valid.

BFCL.120  BPL – Minimum age

Regulation (EU) 2020/357

Applicants for a BPL shall be at least 16 years of age.

BFCL.125  BPL – Student pilot

Regulation (EU) 2020/357

(a) Student pilots shall not fly solo unless authorised to do so and supervised by a flight instructor for balloons (FI(B)).

(b) Student pilots shall be at least 14 years of age to be allowed on solo flights.

BFCL.130  BPL – Training course and experience requirements

Regulation (EU) 2020/357

Applicants for a BPL shall complete a training course at an ATO or a DTO. The course shall be tailored to the privileges sought and shall include:

(a) theoretical knowledge as specified in point BFCL.135(a);

(b) at least 16 hours of flight instruction in either hot-air balloons that represent group A of that class, or gas balloons, including at least:

(1) 12 hours of dual flight instruction;

(2) 10 inflations and 20 take-offs and landings; and

(3) One supervised solo flight with a flight time of at least 30 minutes.

AMC1 BFCL.130  BPL – Training course and experience requirements

ED Decision 2020/003/R

THEORETICAL KNOWLEDGE INSTRUCTION FOR THE BPL

(a) General

The training should cover aspects related to non-technical skills in an integrated manner, taking into account the particular risks associated with the licence and the activity. The theoretical knowledge instruction provided by the declared training organisation (DTO) or approved training organisation (ATO) should include a certain element of formal classroom work but may also include other methods of delivery — for example, interactive video, slide or tape presentation, computer-based training and other media distance-learning courses. The training organisation responsible for the training has to check whether all the appropriate elements of the training course of theoretical knowledge instruction have been completed to a satisfactory standard before recommending the applicant for the examination.

(b) Syllabus

The following table contains the syllabus for theoretical knowledge instruction for the BPL:

Note: The content of Subjects 5 (Principles of flight), 6 (Operational procedures), 7 (Flight performance and planning), and 8 (Aircraft general knowledge, envelope and systems and emergency equipment) should contain aspects as relevant for the class of balloon used for the training, unless a certain element is specifically marked as relevant for one particular class only.

AMC2 BFCL.130 BPL – Training course and experience requirements

ED Decision 2020/003/R

FLIGHT INSTRUCTION FOR THE BPL

(a) Entry to training

Before being accepted for training, an applicant should be informed that the appropriate medical certificate must be obtained before solo flying is permitted.

(b) Flight instruction — general

(1) The BPL flight instruction syllabus should take into account the principles of threat and error management (TEM) and also cover:

(i) pre-flight operations, including load calculations, balloon inspection and servicing;

(ii) crew and passenger briefings;

(iii) inflation and crowd control;

(iv) control of the balloon by external visual reference;

(v) take-off in different wind conditions;

(vi) approach from low and high level;

(vii) landings in different surface wind conditions;

(viii) cross-country flying using visual reference and dead reckoning;

(ix) emergency operations, including simulated balloon equipment malfunctions;

(x) compliance with air traffic services procedures and communication procedures;

(xi) avoidance of nature protection areas; and

(xii) landowner relations.

(2) Before allowing applicants to undertake their first solo flight, the FI should ensure that they can operate the required systems and equipment.

(c) Syllabus of flight instruction (hot-air balloon)

(1) The numbering of exercises should be used primarily as an exercise reference list and as a broad instructional sequencing guide; therefore, the demonstrations and practices need not necessarily be given in the order listed. The actual order and content will depend upon the following interrelated factors:

(i) the applicant’s progress and ability;

(ii) the weather conditions affecting the flight;

(iii) the flight time available;

(iv) the instructional technique considerations;

(v) the local operating environment; and

(vi) the applicability of the exercises to the balloon type.

(2) Each of the exercises requires the applicant to be aware of the need for as well as the principles of good airmanship and look-out, which should be emphasised at all times.

(3) List of exercises

Exercise 1: Familiarisation with the balloon

(i) characteristics of the balloon;

(ii) the components or systems;

(iii) refuelling of the cylinders;

(iv) instruments and equipment; and

(v) use of checklist(s) and procedures.

Exercise 2: Preparation for flight

(i) documentation and equipment;

(ii) weather forecast and actuals;

(iii) flight planning:

(A) notices to airmen (NOTAMs);

(B) airspace structure;

(C) sensitive areas (for example, nature protection areas);

(D) expected track and distance;

(E) pre-flight picture; and

(F) possible landing fields.

(iv) launch field:

(A) permission;

(B) field selection;

(C) behaviour; and

(D) adjacent fields; and

(v) load calculations.

Exercise 3: Crew and passenger briefing

(i) clothing;

(ii) crew briefing; and

(iii) passenger briefing.

Exercise 4: Assembly and layout

(i) crowd control;

(ii) rigging envelope, basket and burner;

(iii) burner test;

(iv) use of restraint line; and

(v) pre-inflation checks.

Exercise 5: Inflation

(i) crowd control;

(ii) cold inflation;

(iii) use of the inflation fan; and

(iv) hot inflation.

Exercise 6: Take-off in different wind conditions

(i) pre-take-off checks and briefings;

(ii) heating for controlled climb;

(iii) ‘hands off and hands on' procedure for ground crew;

(iv) assessment of lift;

(v) use of quick release;

(vi) assessment of wind and obstacles;

(vii) take-off in wind of different speeds, with and without shelter; and

(viii) preparation for false lift.

Exercise 7: Climb to level flight

(i) climbing with a predetermined rate of climb;

(ii) look-out procedures;

(iii) effect on envelope temperature;

(iv) maximum rate of climb according to the manufacturer’s flight manual; and

(v) levelling off at selected altitude.

Exercise 8: Level flight

(i) maintaining level flight by:

(A) use of instruments only;

(B) use of visual references only; and

(C) all available means; and

(ii) use of parachute and turning vents (if applicable).

Exercise 9: Descent to level flight

(i) descent with a predetermined rate of descent;

(ii) fast descent;

(iii) look-out procedures;

(iv) maximum rate of descent according to the manufacturer’s flight manual;

(v) use of parachute;

(vi) parachute stall;

(vii) cold descent; and

(viii) levelling off at selected altitude.

Exercise 10A: Emergencies — systems

(i) pilot light failure;

(ii) burner failure, valve leaks, flame out and re-light;

(iii) gas leaks;

(iv) envelope over temperature;

(v) envelope damage in-flight; and

(vi) parachute or rapid deflation system failure.

Exercise 10B: Other emergencies

(i) fire extinguisher;

(ii) fire on ground;

(iii) fire in the air;

(iv) contact with electrical power lines;

(v) obstacle avoidance; and

(vi) escape drills, location and use of emergency equipment.

Exercise 11: Navigation

(i) maps selection;

(ii) plotting expected track;

(iii) marking positions and time;

(iv) calculation of distance, speed and fuel consumption;

(v) ceiling limitations (ATC, weather and envelope temperature);

(vi) planning ahead;

(vii) monitoring of weather development and related decision-making/acting;

(viii) monitoring of fuel consumption and envelope temperature;

(ix) ATC liaison (if applicable);

(x) communication with retrieve crew; and

(xi) use of GNSS (if applicable).

Exercise 12: Fuel management

(i) cylinder arrangement and burner systems;

(ii) pilot light supply (vapour or liquid);

(iii) use of master cylinders (if applicable);

(iv) fuel requirement and expected fuel consumption;

(v) fuel state and pressure;

(vi) fuel reserves;

(vii) cylinder contents gauge and change procedure; and

(viii) use of cylinder manifolds.

Exercise 13: Approach from low level

(i) pre-landing checks;

(ii) passenger pre-landing briefing;

(iii) selection of field;

(iv) use of burner and parachute;

(v) look-out procedures; and

(vi) missed approach and fly on.

Exercise 14: Approach from high level

(i) pre-landing checks;

(ii) passenger pre-landing briefing;

(iii) selection of field;

(iv) rate of descent;

(v) use of burner and parachute;

(vi) look-out procedures; and

(vii) missed approach and fly on.

Exercise 15: Operating at low level

(i) use of burner, whisper burner and parachute;

(ii) look-out procedures;

(iii) avoidance of low-level obstacles;

(iv) avoidance of sensitive areas and nature protection areas; and

(v) landowner relations.

Exercise 16: Landing in different wind conditions

(i) pre-landing checks;

(ii) passenger pre-landing briefing;

(iii) selection of field;

(iv) turbulence (in the case of landings with high wind speed only);

(v) use of burner and pilot lights;

(vi) use of parachute (or other deflation system) and turning vents (if applicable);

(vii) look-out procedures;

(viii) dragging and deflation;

(ix) landowner relations; and

(x) airmanship.

Exercise 17: First solo flight

(i) supervised flight preparation; and

(ii) instructor’s briefing, observation of flight and de-briefing.

Note: Exercises 1 to 16 must have been completed and the student must have achieved a sufficient level of competence to safely perform a flight before undertaking the first solo flight.

(d) Syllabus of flight instruction (gas balloon)

(1) The numbering of exercises should be used primarily as an exercise reference list and as a broad instructional sequencing guide; therefore, the demonstrations and practices need not necessarily be given in the order listed. The actual order and content will depend upon the following interrelated factors:

(i) the applicant’s progress and ability;

(ii) the weather conditions affecting the flight;

(iii) the flight time available;

(iv) the instructional technique considerations;

(v) the local operating environment; and

(vi) the applicability of the exercises to the balloon type.

(2) Each of the exercises involves the need for the pilot under training to be aware of the needs of good airmanship and look-out, which should be emphasised at all times.

(3) List of exercises

Exercise 1: Familiarisation with the balloon

(i) characteristics of the balloon;

(ii) the components or systems;

(iii) instruments and equipment; and

(iv) use of checklist(s) and procedures.

Exercise 2: Preparation for flight

(i) documentation and equipment;

(ii) weather forecast and actuals;

(iii) flight planning:

(A) NOTAMs;

(B) airspace structure;

(C) sensitive areas (for example, nature protection areas);

(D) expected track and distance;

(E) pre-flight picture; and

(F) possible landing fields;

(iv) launch field:

(A) permission;

(B) behaviour; and

(C) adjacent fields; and

(v) load calculations.

Exercise 3: Crew and passenger briefing

(i) clothing;

(ii) crew briefing; and

(iii) passenger briefing.

Exercise 4: Assembly and layout

(i) crowd control;

(ii) rigging envelope and basket (balloon with net);

(iii) rigging envelope and basket (netless balloon); and

(iv) ballast check.

Exercise 5: Inflation

(i) crowd control;

(ii) inflation procedure according to the manufacturer’s flight manual; and

(iii) avoidance of electrostatic discharge.

Exercise 6: Take-off in different wind conditions

(i) pre-take-off checks and briefings;

(ii) preparation for controlled climb;

(iii) ‘hands off and hands on’ procedure for ground crew;

(iv) assessment of wind and obstacles;

(v) take-off in wind of different speeds, with and without shelter; and

(vi) preparation for false lift.

Exercise 7: Climb to level flight

(i) climb with a predetermined rate of climb;

(ii) look-out procedures;

(iii) maximum rate of climb according to the manufacturer’s flight manual; and

(iv) levelling off at selected altitude.

Exercise 8: Level flight

(i) maintaining level flight by:

(A) use of instruments only;

(B) use of visual references only; and

(C) all available means; and

(ii) use of parachute or valve.

Exercise 9: Descent to level flight

(i) descent with a predetermined rate of descent;

(ii) fast descent;

(iii) look-out procedures;

(iv) maximum rate of descent according to the manufacturer’s flight manual;

(v) use of parachute or valve; and

(vi) levelling off at selected altitude.

Exercise 10: Emergencies

(i) closed appendix during take-off and climb;

(ii) envelope damage in-flight;

(iii) parachute or valve failure;

(iv) contact with electrical power lines;

(v) obstacle avoidance; and

(vi) escape drills, location and use of emergency equipment.

Exercise 11: Navigation

(i) map selection;

(ii) plotting expected track;

(iii) marking positions and time;

(iv) calculation of distance, speed and ballast consumption;

(v) ceiling limitations (ATC, weather and ballast);

(vi) planning ahead;

(vii) monitoring of weather development and acting so;

(viii) monitoring of ballast consumption;

(ix) ATC liaison (if applicable);

(x) communication with retrieve crew; and

(xi) use of GNSS (if applicable).

Exercise 12: Ballast management

(i) minimum ballast;

(ii) arrangement and securing of ballast;

(iii) ballast requirement and expected ballast consumption; and

(iv) ballast reserves.

Exercise 13: Approach from low level

(i) pre-landing checks;

(ii) passenger pre-landing checks;

(iii) selection of field;

(iv) use of ballast and parachute or valve;

(v) use of trail rope (if applicable);

(vi) look-out procedures; and

(vii) missed approach and fly on.

Exercise 14: Approach from high level

(i) pre-landing checks;

(ii) passenger pre-landing checks;

(iii) selection of field;

(iv) rate of descent;

(v) use of ballast and parachute or valve;

(vi) use of trail rope (if applicable);

(vii) look-out procedures; and

(viii) missed approach and fly on.

Exercise 15: Operating at low level

(i) use of ballast and parachute or valve;

(ii) look-out procedures;

(iii) avoidance of low-level obstacles;

(iv) avoidance of sensitive areas and nature protection areas; and

(v) landowner relations.

Exercise 16: Landing in different wind conditions

(i) pre-landing checks;

(ii) passenger pre-landing briefing;

(iii) selection of field;

(iv) turbulence (in the case of landings with high wind speed only);

(v) use of ballast and parachute or valve;

(vi) look-out procedures;

(vii) use of rip panel;

(viii) dragging;

(ix) deflation;

(x) avoidance of electrostatic discharge; and

(xi) landowner relations.

Exercise 17: First solo flight

(i) supervised flight preparation; and

(ii) instructor’s briefing, observation of flight and de-briefing.

Note: Exercises 1 to 16 have to be completed and the student must have achieved a sufficient level of competence to safely perform a flight before undertaking the first solo flight.

BFCL.135  BPL – Theoretical knowledge examination

Regulation (EU) 2020/357

(a) Theoretical knowledge

Applicants for a BPL shall demonstrate a level of theoretical knowledge that is appropriate to the privileges sought through examinations on the following:

(1) common subjects:

(i) air law;

(ii) human performance;

(iii) meteorology;

(iv) communications; and

(2) specific subjects concerning balloons:

(i) principles of flight;

(ii) operational procedures;

(iii) flight performance and planning;

(iv) aircraft general knowledge related to balloons; and

(v) navigation.

(b) Responsibilities of the applicant

(1) The applicant shall take the entire set of theoretical knowledge examinations for the BPL under the responsibility of the same Member State’s competent authority.

(2) The applicant shall take the theoretical knowledge examination only if recommended by the ATO or the DTO that is responsible for his or her training and once he or she has completed the appropriate elements of the training course of theoretical knowledge instruction to a satisfactory standard.

(3) The recommendation by the ATO or the DTO shall be valid for 12 months. If the applicant has failed to take at least one theoretical knowledge examination paper within this validity period, the need for further training shall be determined by the ATO or the DTO, based on the needs of the applicant.

(c) Pass standards

(1) A pass in a theoretical knowledge examination paper shall be awarded to the applicant if he or she has achieved at least 75 % of the marks allocated to that paper. No penalty marking shall be applied.

(2) Unless otherwise specified in this Annex, an applicant is considered to have successfully completed the required theoretical knowledge examination for the BPL if he or she has passed all the required theoretical knowledge examination papers within a period of 18 months counted from the end of the calendar month when the applicant first attempted to take the examination.

(3) If an applicant has failed to pass one of the theoretical knowledge examination papers within four attempts or has failed to pass all papers within the period mentioned in paragraph (2), he or she shall retake the complete set of theoretical knowledge examination papers.

(4) Before retaking the theoretical knowledge examinations, the applicant shall undertake further training at an ATO or a DTO. The ATO or the DTO shall determine the extent and scope of the training, based on the needs of the applicant.

(d) Validity period

The theoretical knowledge examination shall be valid for a period of 24 months counted from the day when the applicant successfully completed the theoretical knowledge examination, in accordance with paragraph (c)(2).

AMC1 BFCL.135  BPL – Theoretical knowledge examinations

ED Decision 2020/003/R

(a) The theoretical knowledge examinations for the BPL follow the syllabus for theoretical knowledge instruction for the BPL set out in AMC1 BFCL.130.

(b) The examinations should be in written form. However, for the subject Communications, practical classroom testing may be conducted.

(c) The examinations should comprise a total of 120 multiple-choice questions, covering all the subjects, with the following arrangements for questions and allocated time per subject:

(d) The period of 18 months mentioned in point BFCL.135(c)(2) should be counted from the end of the calendar month when the applicant first attempted an examination.

(e) The competent authority should inform applicants of the language(s) in which the examination will be conducted.

GM1 BFCL.135  BPL – Theoretical knowledge examinations

ED Decision 2020/003/R

TERMINOLOGY

The meaning of the following terms used in BFCL.135 is as follows:

(a) ‘Entire set of examinations’: an examination in all subjects required by the licence level.

(b) ‘Examination’: the demonstration of knowledge in one or more examination papers.

(c) ‘Examination paper’: a set of questions that covers one subject required by the licence level, to be answered by a candidate for examination.

(d) ‘Attempt’: a try to pass a specific examination paper.

BFCL.140  BPL – Crediting of theoretical knowledge

Regulation (EU) 2020/357

Applicants for the issue of a BPL shall be credited towards the theoretical knowledge requirements for the common subjects as specified in point BFCL.135(a)(1) if they:

(a) hold a licence in accordance with Annex I (Part-FCL) to Regulation (EU) No 1178/2011 or Annex III (Part-SFCL) to Implementing Regulation (EU) 2018/1976; or

(b) have passed the theoretical knowledge examinations for a licence as specified in paragraph (a), as long as this is done within the validity period specified in point BFCL.135(d).

BFCL.145  BPL – Practical skill test

Regulation (EU) 2020/357

(a) Applicants for a BPL shall demonstrate through the completion of a skill test the ability to perform, as PIC on a balloon, the relevant procedures and manoeuvres with competency appropriate to the privileges sought.

(b) Applicants shall complete the skill test in the same class of balloons in which the training course has been completed in accordance with point BFCL.130 and, in case of hot-air balloons, in a balloon that represents group A of that class.

(c) To take a skill test for the issue of a BPL, the applicant shall first pass the required theoretical knowledge examination.

(d) Pass standards

(1) The skill test shall be divided into different sections, representing all the different phases of a balloon flight.

(2) Failure in any item of a section shall cause the applicant to fail the entire section. If the applicant fails in only one section, he or she shall repeat only that section. Failure in more than one section shall require the applicant to retake the entire test.

(3) If the applicant needs to retake the test in accordance with paragraph (2) and fails in any section, including those sections that have been passed at a previous attempt, the applicant shall retake the entire test.

(e) If the applicant fails to achieve a pass in all sections of the test within two attempts, he or she shall receive further practical training.

AMC1 BFCL.145  BPL – Practical skill test

ED Decision 2020/003/R

(a) GENERAL

(1) The take-off site should be chosen by the applicant depending on the actual meteorological conditions, the area which has to be overflown, and the possible options for suitable landing sites. The applicant should be responsible for the flight planning and should ensure that all equipment and documentation for the execution of the flight are on board.

(2) An applicant should indicate to the FE the checks and duties carried out. Checks should be completed in accordance with the flight manual or the authorised checklist for the balloon on which the test is being taken. During pre-flight preparation for the test, the applicant should be required to perform crew and passenger briefings and demonstrate crowd control. The load calculation should be performed by the applicant in compliance with the operations manual or flight manual for the balloon used.

(3) The flight time of the skill test should be at least 30 minutes.

(b) FLIGHT TEST TOLERANCE

The applicant should demonstrate the ability to:

(1) operate the balloon within its limitations;

(2) complete all manoeuvres with smoothness and accuracy;

(3) exercise good judgment and airmanship;

(4) apply aeronautical knowledge; and

(5) maintain control of the balloon at all times in such a manner that the successful outcome of a procedure or manoeuvre is never seriously in doubt.

(c) CONTENT OF THE SKILL TEST

(1) The skill test contents and sections set out in this point should be used for the skill test for the issue of a BPL with privileges for the hot-air balloon class:

Note: Use of checklist(s), airmanship, control of balloon by external visual reference, look-out procedures, etc. apply in all sections.

(2) The skill test contents and sections set out in this point should be used for the skill test for the issue of a BPL with privileges for the gas balloon class:

Note: Use of checklist(s), airmanship, control of balloon by external visual reference, look-out procedures, etc. apply in all sections.

BFCL.150  BPL – Extension of privileges to another balloon class or group

Regulation (EU) 2020/357

(a) The privileges of the BPL shall be limited to the class of balloon in which the skill test as specified in point BFCL.145 was taken, and, in the case of hot-air balloons, to group A of that class.

(b) In the case of hot-air balloons, the privileges of the BPL shall be extended to another group within the hot-air balloon class upon application if a pilot has completed at least:

(1) two instruction flights with an FI(B) on a balloon of the relevant group;

(2) the following amount of hours of flight time as PIC on balloons:

(i)  at least 100 hours, if privileges for group B balloons are sought;

(ii)  at least 200 hours, if privileges for group C balloons are sought;

(iii)  at least 300 hours, if privileges for group D balloons are sought.

(c) Except for the mixed balloon class, the privileges of the BPL shall be extended to another balloon class, or, if privileges for the hot-air balloon class are sought, to group A of the hot-air balloon class, upon application if a pilot has completed in the relevant balloon class and group:

(1) a training course at an ATO or a DTO, including at least:

(i) five dual instructional flights; or

(ii) in the case of an extension from hot-air balloons to hot-air airships, five hours of dual instruction time; and

(2) a skill test during which the pilot has demonstrated to the FE(B) an adequate level of theoretical knowledge for the other class in the following subjects:

(i) principles of flight;

(ii) operational procedures;

(iii) flight performance and planning;

(iv) aircraft general knowledge with regard to the balloon class for which the extension of privileges is sought.

(d) The completion of the training as specified in paragraphs (b)(1) and (c)(1) shall be entered in the logbook of the pilot and signed by:

(1) in the case of paragraph (b)(1), the instructor who is responsible for the instruction flights; and

(2) in the case of paragraph (c)(1), the head of training of the ATO or of the DTO that is responsible for the training.

(e) A BPL holder shall exercise his or her privileges in the mixed balloon class only if he or she has privileges for both the hot-air balloon class and the gas balloon class.

AMC1 BFCL.150(b)  BPL – Extension of privileges to another balloon class or group

ED Decision 2020/003/R

EXTENSION OF HOT-AIR BALLOON CLASS PRIVILEGES TO ANOTHER HOT-AIR BALLOON GROUP

(a) The training flights should concentrate on the differences between the group for which privileges are sought and the group(s) for which the pilot already has privileges. For example, handling needs to consider balloon performance differences arising from greater mass, inertia, response to the burner and, in some cases, differing deflation systems. Additional requirements arise for dealing with larger numbers of passengers.

(b) Instructors should only sign off as ‘training completed’ when they are satisfied that the pilot under training has achieved full technical and operational competence for balloons of all sizes included in the given group.

(c) An extension to group C is also valid for groups A and B. An extension to group D is also valid for groups A, B and C.

GM1 BFCL.150(b)  BPL – Extension of privileges to another balloon class or group

ED Decision 2020/003/R

EXTENSION OF HOT-AIR BALLOON CLASS PRIVILEGES TO ANOTHER HOT-AIR BALLOON GROUP

The two training flights stipulated in point BFCL.150(b)(1) constitute the minimum amount of training needed in the case of experienced pilots who seek to extend their privileges by one group size. The instructor may conduct additional training flights, as necessary for the candidate to acquire the competence needed, before entering the completion of training in the candidate’s logbook.

AMC1 BFCL.150(c)(1)  BPL – Extension of privileges to another balloon class or group

ED Decision 2020/003/R

FLIGHT INSTRUCTION FOR THE EXTENSION OF PRIVILEGES TO THE HOT-AIR AIRSHIP CLASS

(a) The numbering of the exercises set out in point (d) should be used primarily as an exercise reference list and as a broad instructional sequencing guide; therefore, the demonstrations and practices need not necessarily be given in the order listed.

(b) In cases where the applicant already holds hot-air balloon privileges, the flight instruction should concentrate on all of the following:

(1) added complication of the engine;

(2) engine controls and different performance;

(3) airship operating limitations; and

(4) airship procedures.

(c) In cases where the applicant does not hold hot-air balloon privileges, the ATO or DTO, based on the candidate’s experience, may decide to conduct training elements as per point (c) of AMC2 BFCL.130 on hot-air balloons before starting with the flight instruction on hot-air airships, in order to allow the candidate to develop competence in hot-air aircraft operation.

(d) In any case, the flying exercises should cover the revision or explanation of the following exercises:

Exercise 1: Familiarisation with the hot-air airship

(i) characteristics of the hot-air airship;

(ii)  aerostatic and aerodynamic lift;

(iii)  operating limitations;

(iv)  airworthiness limitations;

(v) the components or systems;

(vi) instruments, minimum equipment and other equipment; and

(vii) use of checklist(s) and procedures.

Exercise 2: Preparation for flight

(i) documentation and equipment;

(ii) weather forecast and actuals;

(iii) flight planning:

(A) NOTAMs;

(B) airspace structure;

(C) sensitive areas;

(D) expected track and distance;

(E) pre-flight picture; and

(F) possible landing fields;

(iv) launch field:

(A) permission;

(B) behaviour;

(C) field selection;

(D) adjacent fields; and

(E)  noise abatement; and

(v) load and fuel calculations.

Exercise 3: Crew and passenger briefing

(i) clothing;

(ii) crew briefing; and

(iii) passenger briefing.

Exercise 4: Assembly and layout

(i) crowd control;

(ii) rigging envelope, gondola, burner and engine;

(iii) burner test;

(iv)  engine test; and

(v) pre-inflation checks.

Exercise 5: Inflation

(i) crowd control;

(ii) cold inflation:

(A)  use of restraint line; and

(B)  use of the inflation fan; and

(iii) hot inflation.

Exercise 6: Engine

(i) identification of main parts and controls;

(ii) familiarisation with operation and checking of the engine; and

(iii) engine checks before take-off.

Exercise 7: Pressurisation (if applicable)

(i) pressurisation fan operation;

(ii) super pressure and balance between pressure and temperature; and

(iii) pressure limitations.

Exercise 8: Take-off

(i) before take-off checks and briefings;

(ii) heating for controlled climb;

(iii) procedure for ground crew; and

(iv) assessment of wind and obstacles.

Exercise 9: Climb to level flight

(i)  climbing with a predetermined rate of climb;

(ii)  effect on envelope temperature and pressure;

(iii)  maximum rate of climb according to the manufacturer’s flight manual; and

(iv)  level off at selected altitude.

Exercise 10: Level flight

(i) maintaining level flight by:

(A) use of instruments only;

(B) use of visual references only; and

(C) all available means;

(ii)  maintaining level flight at different air speeds by taking aerodynamic lift into account;

(iii)  turns; and

(iv) stationary flight.

Exercise 11: Descent to level flight

(i) descent with a predetermined rate of descent;

(ii) maximum rate of descent according to the manufacturer’s flight manual; and

(iii) levelling off at selected altitude.

Exercise 12A: Emergencies — systems

(i) engine failure;

(ii) pressurisation failure;

(iii) rudder failure;

(iv) pilot light failure;

(v) burner failure, valve leaks, flame out and re-light;

(vi) fuel leaks;

(vii) envelope over temperature; and

(viii) envelope damage in-flight.

Exercise 12B: Other emergencies

(i) fire extinguishers;

(ii) fire on ground;

(iii) fire in the air;

(iv) electrical power supply failure;

(v) hard landing;

(vi) landing in strong wind;

(vii) contact with electrical power lines;

(viii) obstacle avoidance;

(ix) escape drills, location and use of emergency equipment.

Exercise 13: Navigation

(i) map selection and preparation;

(ii) plotting and steering expected track;

(iii) marking positions and time;

(iv) calculation of distance, speed and fuel consumption;

(v) ceiling limitations (ATC, weather and envelope temperature);

(vi) planning ahead;

(vii) monitoring of weather development and acting so;

(viii) monitoring of fuel and envelope temperature or pressure;

(ix) ATC liaison (if applicable);

(x) communication with ground crew; and

(xi) use of GNSS (if applicable).

Exercise 14: Fuel management

(i) engine arrangement and tank system;

(ii) cylinder arrangement and burner systems;

(iii) pilot light supply (vapour or liquid);

(iv) fuel requirement and expected fuel consumption for engine and burner;

(v) fuel state and pressure;

(vi) fuel reserves; and

(vii) cylinder and petrol tank contents gauge.

Exercise 15: Approach and go-around

(i) pre-landing checks;

(ii) selection of field into wind;

(iii) use of burner and engine;

(iv) look-out procedures; and

(v) missed approach and go-around.

Exercise 16: Approach with simulated engine failure

(i) pre-landing checks;

(ii) selection of field;

(iii) use of burner;

(iv) look-out procedures; and

(v) missed approach and go-around.

Exercise 17: Operating at low level

(i) use of burner and engine;

(ii) look-out procedures;

(iii) avoidance of low-level obstacles;

(iv) avoidance of sensitive areas and nature protection area;

(v) landowner relations; and

(v) noise abatement procedures.

Exercise 18: Steering

(i) assessment of wind; and

(i) correcting for wind to steer a given course.

Exercise 19: Final landing

(i) pre-landing checks;

(ii) use of burner and engine;

(iii) look-out;

(iv) deflation; and

(v)  landowner relations.

AMC2 BFCL.150(c)(1)  BPL – Extension of privileges to another balloon class or group

ED Decision 2020/003/R

FLIGHT INSTRUCTION FOR THE EXTENSION OF PRIVILEGES TO THE GAS BALLOON CLASS

(a) The flight instruction for extending the privileges of a BPL to gas balloon privileges should follow the syllabus for initial BPL training on gas balloons, as set out in point (d) of AMC2 BFCL.130.

(b) Specific emphasis should be given to handling differences, related to class privileges held, and specific safety requirements for gas balloons.

AMC3 BFCL.150(c)(1)  BPL – Extension of privileges to another balloon class or group

ED Decision 2020/003/R

FLIGHT INSTRUCTION FOR THE EXTENSION OF PRIVILEGES TO THE HOT-AIR BALLOON CLASS

(a) The flight instruction for extending the privileges of a BPL to hot-air balloon privileges should follow the syllabus for initial BPL training on hot-air balloons, as set out in point (c) of AMC2 BFCL.130.

(b) Specific emphasis should be given to handling differences, related to class privileges held, and specific safety requirements for hot-air balloons.

AMC1 BFCL.150(c)(2)  BPL – Extension of privileges to another balloon class or group

ED Decision 2020/003/R

(a) SKILL TEST FOR THE EXTENSION OF PRIVILEGES TO THE HOT-AIR AIRSHIP CLASS

(1) The take-off site should be chosen by the applicant depending on the actual meteorological conditions, the area which has to be overflown, and the possible options for suitable landing sites. The applicant should be responsible for the flight planning and should ensure that all equipment and documentation for the execution of the flight are on board.

(2) An applicant should indicate to the FE the checks and duties carried out. Checks should be completed in accordance with the flight manual or the authorised checklist for the balloon on which the test is being taken. During pre-flight preparation for the test, the applicant should be required to perform crew and passenger briefings and demonstrate crowd control. The load calculation should be performed by the applicant in compliance with the operations manual or flight manual for the hot-air airship used.

(3) The flight time of the skill test should be at least 30 minutes.

(b) FLIGHT TEST TOLERANCE

The applicant should demonstrate the ability to:

(1) operate the hot-air airship within its limitations;

(2) complete all manoeuvres with smoothness and accuracy;

(3) exercise good judgment and airmanship;

(4) apply aeronautical knowledge; and

(5) maintain control of the airship at all times in such a manner that the successful outcome of a procedure or manoeuvre is never seriously in doubt.

(c) CONTENT OF THE SKILL TEST

The following skill test contents and sections should be used for the skill test for the issue of a BPL hot-air airship extension:

Note: Use of checklist(s), airmanship, control of hot-air airship by external visual reference, look-out procedures, etc. apply in all sections.

AMC2 BFCL.150(c)(2)  BPL – Extension of privileges to another balloon class or group

ED Decision 2020/003/R

SKILL TEST FOR THE EXTENSION OF PRIVILEGES TO THE GAS BALLOON CLASS

To extend the privileges of a BPL to gas balloon privileges, BPL holders should take the skill test for the initial issue of a BPL on gas balloons, as set out in AMC1 BFCL.145.

AMC3 BFCL.150(c)(2)  BPL – Extension of privileges to another balloon class or group

ED Decision 2020/003/R

SKILL TEST FOR THE EXTENSION OF PRIVILEGES TO THE HOT-AIR BALLOON CLASS

To extend the privileges of a BPL to hot-air balloon privileges, BPL holders should take the skill test for the initial issue of a BPL on hot-air balloons, as set out in AMC1 BFCL.145.

AMC4 BFCL.150(c)(2)  BPL – Extension of privileges to another balloon class or group

ED Decision 2020/003/R

THEORETICAL KNOWLEDGE FOR EXTENSION OF PRIVILEGES TO ANOTHER BALLOON CLASS

During the skill test as per point BFCL.150(c)(2), the demonstration of an adequate level of theoretical knowledge for the other balloon class should cover all of the following from the syllabus set out in point (b) of AMC1 BFCL.130:

Note: The content of the below syllabus should contain aspects as relevant for the class of balloon used for the training, unless a certain element is specifically marked as relevant for particular classes only.

BFCL.160  BPL – Recency requirements

Regulation (EU) 2020/357

(a) A BPL holder shall only exercise the privileges of his or her licence if he or she has completed in the relevant balloon class:

(1) either:

(i) within the last 24 months before the planned flight, at least six hours of flight time as PIC, including 10 take-offs and landings, as PIC or flying dual or solo under the supervision of an FI(B); and

(ii) within the last 48 months before the planned flight, at least one training flight with an FI(B); or

(2) within the last 24 months before the planned flight, a proficiency check in accordance with point (c).

(b) In addition to the requirements in paragraph (a), in the case of a pilot who is qualified to fly more than one class of balloons, in order to exercise his or her privileges in the other balloon class or the other balloon classes, he or she shall have completed at least three hours of flight time, as PIC or flying dual or solo under the supervision of an FI(B), on each additional balloon class within the last 24 months.

(c) A BPL holder who does not comply with the requirements in paragraph (a)(1) and, if applicable, (b), before resuming the exercise of his or her privileges, shall pass a proficiency check with an FE(B) in a balloon that represents the relevant class.

(d) After complying with paragraph (a), (b) or (c), as applicable, a BPL holder with privileges to fly hot-air balloons shall exercise his or her privileges only on hot-air balloons that represent:

(i) the same group of hot-air balloons in which the training flight as specified in paragraph (a)(1)(ii) or the proficiency check as specified in paragraph (c), as applicable, have been completed, or a group with a smaller envelope size; or

(ii) group A of hot-air balloons in cases where a pilot, in accordance with paragraph (b), has completed the training flight as specified in paragraph (a)(2) in a balloon class other than hot-air balloons.

(e) The completion of the dual flights, the flights under supervision and the training flight as specified in paragraph (a)(1) and (b), as well as the proficiency check as specified in paragraph (c) shall be entered in the logbook of the pilot and signed by, in the case of paragraphs (a)(1) and (b), the responsible FI(B) and, in the case of paragraph (c), the responsible FE(B).

(f) A BPL holder, that holds also the privileges for commercial operations as specified in point BFCL.215 of Subpart ADD of this Annex, shall be deemed to comply with the requirements of:

(1) paragraph (a) and, if applicable, (b), in case he or she has completed a proficiency check in accordance with point BFCL.215(d)(2)(i) in the relevant balloon class or classes within the last 24 months; or

(2) paragraph (a)(1)(ii), in case he or she has completed the training flight as specified in point BFCL.215(d)(2)(ii) in the relevant balloon class.

In the case of the hot-air balloon class, limitations specified in paragraph (d), concerning the privileges to operate different classes of balloons, shall apply, depending on the balloon class used for complying with paragraphs (f)(1) or (f)(2).

AMC1 BFCL.160  BPL – Recency requirements

ED Decision 2020/003/R

CREDITS FOR FLIGHT TIME COMPLETED ON BALLOONS AS PER ARTICLE 2(8) OF AS WELL AS ANNEX I TO THE BASIC REGULATION

All hours flown on balloons that are subject to a decision as per Article 2(8) of the Basic Regulation or that are specified in Annex I to the Basic Regulation should count in full towards fulfilling the hourly requirements of point BFCL.160 of Part-BFCL under the following conditions:

(a) the balloon matches the definition and criteria of the respective Part-BFCL balloon class and, in the case of hot-air balloons, the applicable hot-air balloon group as specified in point (a) of point BFCL.010;

(b) a balloon that is used for a training flight with an instructor is an aircraft as per points (a), (b), (c) or (d) of Annex I to the Basic Regulation that is subject to an authorisation specified in point ORA.ATO.135 of Annex VII (Part-ORA) or point DTO.GEN.240 of Annex VIII (Part-DTO) to Regulation (EU) No 1178/2011.

AMC1 BFCL.160(a)(1)(ii)  Recency requirements

ED Decision 2020/003/R

TRAINING FLIGHT

(a) A training flight as stipulated in point BFCL.160(a)(1)(ii) should be a flight that:

(1) follows the content of the skill test for the relevant balloon class, as set out in AMC1 BFCL.145 or AMC1 BFCL.150(c)(2), as applicable; and

(2) is conducted on a one-to-one basis between one pilot and one instructor only, with no other pilot on board who is taking credit for that flight.

(b) Each training flight should be preceded with a briefing and closed with a debriefing between the instructor and the candidate. In order to add value to the training flight, any element of flying a balloon where candidates feel they would benefit from instruction should be discussed. The flight should then be focused on those specific elements with an instructor demonstration prior to candidate practice being performed.

(c) If the instructor considers that the candidate during the training flight did not perform to an adequate standard, they should not sign the logbook of the candidate but recommend further training flights instead.

(d) At the discretion of the flight instructor, non-fare-paying passengers are accepted on board of the balloon during such training flights, provided that:

(1) passengers are made aware that the intended flight will be a training flight; and

(2) abnormal and emergency procedures are practised on the ground and without passengers on board.

(e) The 48-month period should be counted from the last day of the month in which the preceding training flight took place.

AMC1 BFCL.160(a)(2)  Recency requirements

ED Decision 2020/003/R

PROFICIENCY CHECK

For the proficiency check, the skill test for the initial issue of a BPL in the relevant balloon class, as set out in AMC1 BFCL.145, should be taken.