If you are a smaller operator of Challenger 300 / 350 and you are looking for a freelance TRE CL30 to provide the operator proficiency check for your own pilots, please read on. We can provide the OPC on Challenger 300 and Challenger 350.

Operator proficiency check Bombardier CRJ

The pilot flying commercially on Challenger 300 / 350 shall complete recurrent training and checking with EASA Examiner relevant to the Challenger 300 / 350 type on which they operate as required by ORO.FC.230(a). Each flight crew member shall complete operator proficiency checks as part of the normal crew complement to demonstrate competence in carrying out normal, abnormal and emergency procedures related to the specific variant of Challenger 300.

These procedures are subject to approval by the supervisory authority and described in the Operations manual. So the procedures applicable for the same variant of Challenger CL30 may vary significantly from operator to operator. The differences may be in the overall philosophy, checklist concept or even in the order or logic of the operational procedures. For that reason, the operator proficiency check has to be operator-related. So the OPC from one operator can not be used for the OPC for another operator of the same variant of Challenger 300 / CL350.

Validity of OPC Challenger 300 / 350

In accordance with ORO.FC.220(d)(1) the flight crew member shall complete the operator proficiency check and the emergency and safety equipment training and checking before commencing line flying under supervision (LIFUS) on Challenger CL30. Thus the operator proficiency check shall be undertaken before commencing commercial air transport operations.

The validity period of the operator proficiency check is six calendar months in accordance with Ec 965/2012, Part ORO, ORO.FC.230(b)(3).

Scope of the Challenger 300 OPC

The scope of the operator proficiency check on Challenger CL30 is described in v AMC1 ORO.FC.230(b)(1)(i). Scope of the OPC shall be described in the Operation Manual, Part D and approved by an National Aviation Authority.  Operator proficiency checks should include the following manoeuvres as pilot flying:

  • rejected take-off when an FSTD is available to represent that specific aeroplane, otherwise touch drills only;
  • take-off with engine failure between V 1 and V 2 (take-off safety speed) or, if carried out in an aeroplane, at a safe speed above V2 ;
  • 3D approach operation to minima with, one-engine-inoperative;
  • 2D approach operation to minima;
  • at least one of the 3D or 2D approach operations should be an RNP APCH or RNP AR APCH operation;
  • Head-Up Display use (if applicable)
  • approaches CATII (if applicable)
  • either seat qualification (if applicable)
  • missed approach on instruments from minima with one-engine-inoperative;
  • landing with one-engine-inoperative
  • special airport qualification.

Simulator or a real CRJ?

The purpose of the operator proficiency check is to practice abnormal/emergency procedures that rarely arise in normal operations and should be part of a structured programme of recurrent checking. This should be carried out in an FSTD whenever possible.

Because of the unacceptable risk when simulating emergencies such as engine failure, icing problems, certain types of engine(s) (e.g. during continued take-off or go-around, total hydraulic failure), or because of environmental considerations associated with some emergencies - as required by AMC1 ORO.FC.230(b)(1)(i) these emergencies should preferably be covered in an FSTD representing the Challenger 300 / 350.

OPC can only be done by Challenger 300 / 350 Examiner

In accordance with AMC1 ORO.FC.230(d)(5)(i) the operator proficiency check shall only be done by an EASA TRE CL30 or SFE CL30.TRE Challenger 300 / CL350 and SFE CL30 shall be trained in CRM concepts and the assessment of CRM skills.