The Rotorcraft Directorate is responsible for:
- FAA regulations and policy related to engineering certification of rotorcraft and powered-lift aircraft
- FAA certification of rotorcraft worldwide, and both fixed and rotary wing aircraft within the FAA Southwest Region
- Approving the design and production for all fixed and rotary wing aircraft manufactured or modified within the FAA Southwest Region.
Certification of Rotorcraft
- Design Approval Process
- How to Plan a Certification Project
- International Validation and Domestic Certification
- Regulations, Policies and Guidance
Rotorcraft Occupant Safety
Helicopters equipped with crash resistant fuel systems, crash resistant seats and structures provide the highest level of protection for pilots and passengers. Learn more about crash resistant fuel systems and crash resistant seats with our Helicopter Occupant Safety Toolkit (PDF).
Special Emphasis
- Airworthiness Approval for ADS-B In Systems and Applications
- Airworthiness Approval of ADS-B Out Systems
- Continued Operational Safety
- FAA Public Forum to Conduct Rotorcraft Regulatory Review
- Night Vision Imaging System (NVIS)/Night Vision Goggles (NVG)
- Restricted Category, Military Surplus Rotorcraft
Safety Promotion Concept for Design and Equipment
The Rotorcraft Safety Promotion Concept (RSPC) is intended as a resource to inform and educate stakeholders about voluntary design and equipment features that may be installed to enhance the safety of the rotorcraft. The RSPC consists of different categories of equipment that chosen from a review of government and industry safety recommendations to improve occupant survivability and reduce fatal accidents. Within each equipment category, there is a continuum of voluntary options. Each option offers a different incremental level of safety enhancement. It is up to each stakeholder to determine the equipment categories and options within each category that are appropriate for them. The RSPC offers a flexible approach because it acknowledges that priorities are different from one stakeholder to another and are influenced by the realities of operational needs, budget, and personal risk tolerances.