Part 133 Rotorcraft External-Load Operations Certification

The 14 CFR Part 133 certification process provides for interaction between the applicant and the FAA from initial inquiry to certificate issuance. The process ensures that programs, systems, and intended methods of compliance are thoroughly reviewed, evaluated, and tested. Any questions about this process should be directed to the nearest Flight Standards District Office (FSDO).

There are 5 phases in the certification process:

Phase 1 - Preapplication and Phase 2 - Formal Application, are combined through the use of the Applicant Readiness Checklist (see below).

Phase 3 - Document Compliance, is that part of the certification process where the applicant’s manuals and other required documents are reviewed and either approved or rejected.

Phase 4 - Demonstration and Inspection is that part of the certification process where the certification team inspects the applicant’s facilities and equipment, and observes personnel in the performance of their duties. Emphasis in this phase is on compliance with regulations and safe operating practices.

Phase 5 – Certification, when all the regulatory requirements have been met, and all other certification phases have been completed successfully the applicant will be issued a Part 133 Rotorcraft External-Load Operating certificate as per 14 CFR Part 133. 

Applicant Resources. The applicant is responsible to prepare themselves for certification. If an applicant is not prepared for the certification application process, the FS office should direct them to the certification resources at https://www.faa.gov, or DRS, or they should consult with other external sources. The certification process flowchart included below provides an overview of the Part 133 certification process. The applicant should be familiar with the certification and operating requirements of part 133 and the following:

•  Applicant Readiness Checklist
• Withdrawal or Denial Process;
• The general applicability and definition of terms;
• The certification requirements;
• The operating rules;
• Part 133 recordkeeping requirements; and
• The requirement to comply with other Federal, state, and local regulations.

Special Considerations for Part 133:

• Load class authorizations (A, B, C, or D);
• Human External Cargo or Nonhuman External Cargo;
• IFR authorization requirements;
• Qualifications and experience required for Chief Pilot;
• Rotorcraft Load Combination Flight Manual (RLCFM) requirements;
• Training program requirements for Class D rotorcraft load combination; and
• Hazardous materials (HAZMAT) training program (if applicable).

Forms

• FAA Form 8400-6, Preapplication Statement of Intent 
• The Application Form, FAA Form 8710-4
• FAA Form 8430-21 Operating Certificate. (This form is available only to FAA personnel)

References

• Title 14 CFR Parts 1, 21, 27, 29, 61, 91, 133 and 137.
• Advisory Circular (AC) 133-1, Rotorcraft External-Load Operations.

Other Documents

• Applicant Readiness Checklist
• 14 CFR part 133 Certification Process Flowchart
• Withdrawal or Denial Process