TABLE OF CONTENTS, I & II

 PAGE

PREFACE .............................................................................. 1

A. ORGANIZATION ................................................................ 2 

 1. Contact Information ......................................................... 2

 1. (a) Pilot Information ......................................................... 2

 2. List of Pilots .................................................................... 3

 3. Aircraft ......................................................................... 3

B. DISTRIBUTION AND REVISIONS .......................................... 3

C. PERSONS AUTHORIZED ...................................................... 4

D. AREA OF OPERATIONS ...................................................... 4

E. PLAN OF ACTIVITIES ......................................................... 5

F. PERMISSION TO OPERATE ................................................... 6

1. Property Owners ............................................................... 6

2. Local Governmental Agencies ............................................... 6

3. State and Federal Government ............................................. 7

4. FAA Flight Standards District Office for area of proposed filming ..7

G. SECURITY ...........................................................................8

H. BRIEFING OF PILOT AND PRODUCTION PERSONNEL ............. 8

I. CERTIFICATION AND AIRWORTHINESS ................................ 9

 1. General ............................................................................ 9

 2. Documentation ................................................................... 9

 3. Frequency of inspections ...................................................... 10

J. PILOT PERSONNEL – MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS ...................10 / 11 

K. COMMUNICATIONS ............................................................. 12

L. ACCIDENT NOTIFICATION ....................................................12

M. RECALL / STOP PROCEDURE ................................................................12

N. AEROBATIC CONPETENCY ....................................................................12

Original Issue I 
 

TABLE OF CONTENTS, Continued :

PAGE

APPENDIX A – DEFINITIONS............................................ 13 / 14

APPENDIX B - CFR 49, Chapter III NTSB, Part 830................. 15 / 15e

APPENDIX C - AIRCRAFT EXTERNAL LOAD OPERATIONS . 16

 Airplanes ( 1 ) ............................................................ 16 / 18

 Helicopters ( 2 ) ............................................................ 19 / 24

 Balloons ( 3 ) ............................................................ 25 / 28

APPENDIX D - SPECIAL PROVISIONS AEROBATICS ............ 29 / 31

Orginal Issue I I 
PREFACE

GENERAL

This operations manual is designed to provide guidelines for Motion Picture and 

Television flight operations and to provide necessary safeguards for persons or 

property on the surface while operating at altitudes and lateral clearances of less 

than those prescribed by FAR 91.119 ( b ), (c), 91.303 (e) and 91.515. All flight 

operations must be conducted in accordance with the attached FAA accepted

Motion Picture and Television Filming manual and waiver including any special 

provisions attached thereto.

The contents of this operations manual shall not be construed to be contrary to any 

Federal Air Regulation or any other applicable government regulations.

Within this manual are instructions, operating procedures, guidelines and criteria 

necessary for participating personnel to carry out their duties and responsibilities 

safely. 

Original Issue Page 1
A. PATRICK MCKERNAN, ORGANIZATION

PATRICK MCKERNAN, is an individual who is employed by Motion Picture and / 

or Television Producers* to provide aircraft pilot services. Additionally, Aerial 

Coordinator* services may be provided.

Depending on the specific requirements of the Producer*, PATRICK MCKERNAN may

be employed as an individual pilot or as an Aerial Coordinator*. As Aerial Coordinator,

PATRICK MCKERNAN, may be responsible on behalf of the Producers* for the 

employment of other pilot's and the securing of required aircraft.

Under no circumstances are any pilots employed by or receive any compensation 

from, PATRICK MCKERNAN

1. CONTACT INFORMATION :

PATRICK MCKERNAN

Address , 1349 Allenford Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90049

Telephone , 310-570-8477 Fax , 310-496-0744

E-mail , patmckernan7@gmail.com

2. PILOT INFORMATION:

PATRICK MCKERNAN

Certificate Type , Commercial, Flight Instructor

Certificate Number , 3586050

Ratings , Rotorcraft

*See Appendix A , Definitions

Original Issue Page 2
PATRICK MCKERNAN, ORGANIZATION, CONTINUED:

2. LIST OF PILOTS: PATRICK MCKERNAN, as an employee of the Producer*,

does not employ any pilots, but may enlist their services for the Producers* for a

specific event. Those additional pilots, when required, will be listed on the specific 

event, 

" Plan of Activity", indicating their Pilots Certificate number and class and date of 

Airman’s Medical Certificate.

 3. AIRCRAFT: PATRICK MCKERNAN, as an employee of the Producer*, 

facilitates contracting for the required aircraft for each specific event on behalf of the 

Producers*. 

Aircraft to be utilized will be listed in the "Plan of Activity" for the specific event by 

make, model, registration number and type of airworthiness certificate, including 

category.

B. DISTRIBUTION AND REVISIONS

A copy of this manual, its revisions and additions, will be in the possession of 

PATRICK MCKERNAN when he’s working on a motion picture or television 

production. 

Content of the Manual will be made available to production personnel when deemed 

necessary and upon request, a copy of this manual shall be provided to the FAA 

Flight Standards District Office having jurisdiction over the filming area.

Revisions as necessary will be provided by, PATRICK MCKERNAN and will be 

forwarded to the FAA Flight Standards District Office which issued the current 

FAA Form 7711-1, for Motion Picture and Television Filming at least 15 days prior 

to the proposed effective date. Revisions will not be distributed until accepted by the 

FSDO and returned with an indication of acceptance. Each revised page will have 

the revision date noted at the bottom of the effected page. The revision page of the 

manual shall be used to record each accepted manual change.

*See Appendix A, Definitions 

Original Issue Page 3
C. PERSONS AUTHORIZED

Title 14 CFR, FAR 91.119 (b) (c) are waived only with respect to those persons, 

vehicles and structures directly involved in the actual filming production. Only 

those persons consenting to be involved and whose participation is necessary for the 

filming production will be allowed within 500 feet of the flight operations. All 

persons consenting to be involved must have also received a briefing in accordance 

with the procedure outline on page 8 paragraph H of this manual.

PATRICK MCKERNAN and the designated production and security personnel will 

maintain a flight operations area perimeter to insure that no unauthorized persons 

are allowed within 500 feet of the flight operations. 

The 500 foot provision may be reduced to no less than 200 feet, if an equivalent level 

of safety can be achieved. This 200 foot provision cannot be applied without 

acceptance and approval by the cognoscente FAA / Flight Standards District Office 

of a Plan of Activities that clearly indicates its use and demonstrates an equivalent 

level of safety.

An equivalent level of safety may be determined by evaluating the filming flight 

operations area as to the degree of protection provided by, terrain features,

buildings, etc. that will provide a safety barrier to the, non – participating public 

and / or property in the event of unplanned debris being dispelled.

The primary consideration remains the conduct of flight operations that do not 

endanger the non-participating public or property.

D. AREA OF OPERATIONS

The United States of America, its Territories and Possessions.

Original Issue Page 4
E. PLAN OF ACTIVITIES 

A written Plan of Activities must be submitted to the Flight Standards District 

Office having jurisdiction over the area of proposed flight operations three days 

prior to the scheduled filming. This three day requirement may be waived at the 

discretion of the FSDO for those occasions where the Waiver Holder is contacted for 

filming on short notice. The waiver holder must justify the exception to that FSDO.

The Plan of Activities must include the following:

( 1 ) Dates and times for all flights;

( 2 ) Name and phone number of the person responsible for the filming 

production event;

( 3 ) Name and phone number of the person responsible for the aircraft

( 4 ) Make, model and serial number and/or registration number of all aircraft 

to be used and their type of airworthiness certificate, including category;

( 5 ) Name and certificate number of all pilots to be utilized in the filming 

production event;

( 6 ) A statement that the Waiver Holder has obtained written/witnessed oral 

permission from property owners and/or local governmental officials to 

conduct the filming production event. The list of those who gave permission 

must be made available to the inspector upon request from the waiver 

holder. 

( 7 ) Signature of Waiver Holder or representative;

( 8 ) A general outline, or summary of the filming flight activities, including the 

request and justification for and compliance with the requirements for 

application of the 200 foot equivalent level of safety provisions, external load 

or aerobatic flight.

 If necessary, maps or diagrams of the specific filming location may be 

required. 

Original Issue Page 5
F. PERMISSION TO OPERATE

PATRICK MCKERNAN will be responsible for assuring that the designated 

production representatives have properly secured the necessary written or witnessed 

oral permission from property owners who are within 500 feet of the intended flight 

operations.

1. PROPERTY OWNERS

Property owners are to be made aware of the proposed filming activities and that 

aircraft will be flown at less than 500 feet proximity to their properties. Property 

owners permission must be obtained by the producers* and may be granted in either 

written form, or verbally, if witnessed and documented.

2. LOCAL GOVERNMENTAL AGENCIES 

Before filming in Territorial, State, County or City jurisdictions, local Sheriff, 

Police, Fire or other appropriate governmental agencies shall be contacted and their 

required permission and/or permits, if any, obtained.

Information on required filming permits can be obtained from local governmental 

agencies, or in some municipalities, private companies that specialize in obtaining 

filming permits.

*See Appendix A , Definitions 

Original Issue Page 6
3. STATES AND FEDERAL GOVERNMENT

Although local permission has been granted, Territorial or State approval may be 

required if an off airport landing is to be made. In the event of a question regarding 

this, the appropriate Territorial or State Aviation Department should be contacted.

On occasion, the permission to operate may involve more than one agency, e.g. State 

lands that overlap or are adjacent to Federal lands, or within an Indian reservation. 

In this case, permission must be granted from all three agencies. Consult area charts 

to see if land is marked off as such and then refer to local charts and maps for more 

detailed information.

4. FAA FLIGHT STANDARDS DISTRICT OFFICE, AREA OF PROPOSED 

FILMING.

After all territorial, state and local permissions have been granted the FAA Flight 

Standards District Office having jurisdiction over the proposed filming area shall be 

contacted and a Plan of Activities submitted in accordance with Section E. of this 

Operations Manual. Depending on the complexity of the proposed flight operations 

the FAA Flight Standards District Office may require additional information or 

documentation.

Original Issue Page7
G. SECURITY

The exclusion from the flight operations area of unauthorized persons , vehicles or 

aircraft will be enforced by designated production personnel, private security 

officers or sworn law enforcement officers at the direction of PATRICK 

MCKERNAN

PATRICK MCKERNAN or his designated representative will halt flight operations 

in the event unauthorized persons, vehicles or aircraft enter the flight operations

area.

A predetermined abort signal will be used to halt flight operations should a breach 

of perimeter security occur, or for any other reason in the interest of safety.

H. BRIEFING OF PILOT/PRODUCTION PERSONNEL

PATRICK MCKERNAN and the production representative will conduct a briefing 

for the production staff, including emergency and security personnel. This briefing 

will be conducted prior to each day’s filming activities and will include the 

following items.

 

1. Summary of the day’s flight operations, a review of the Operations Manual,

Plan of Activities, special provisions and any additional provisions issued by 

the Flight Standards District Office having jurisdiction over the filming area.

2. Aircraft parking and starting.

3. Taxi procedures.

4. Radio and visual communications.

5. Takeoff procedures.

6. Aviation activities to be conducted during the filming production event.

7. Approach and landing procedures.

8. Recall procedures.

9. Emergency procedures.

10. Possible risk to personnel that are involved.

11. Control of non-participating persons.

12. Location of boundaries or deadlines, man made or natural, readily visible to 

the participants.

13. Local governmental limitations, restrictions, or any special circumstances, 

such as noise sensitive areas, time of day restrictions or changes in operating 

procedures.

Additionally, the front of the production, (Studio Call Sheet*) will state;

AIRCRAFT WILL BE FLOWN IN CLOSE PROXIMITY TO CREW AND 

EQUIPMENT, ANYONE OBJECTING TO THE ABOVE, SHOULD NOTIFY 

PRODUCTION PRIOR TO FILMING.

*See Appendix A , Definitions 
Original Issue Page 8

I. CERTIFICATION/AIRWORTHINESS

1. General

The aircraft used may be certified in any category, providing the following 

requirements are met:

 a. 14 CFR, FAR 91.7, 91.9, 91.313, 91.203, 91.319

b. Experimental category must have an airworthiness certificate issued for 

the purpose of exhibition.

c. Restricted category used as a subject aircraft, can only be flown 

while demonstrating their certificated purpose, 14 CFR, FAR 313.

2. Documentation

PATRICK MCKERNAN will assure that the following documents are on board all

aircraft utilized prior to flight:

 a. Current Airworthiness Certificate.

 b. Certificate of Registration.

 c. Approved Aircraft Flight Manual or Pilot Operating Handbook

 d. Approved Pilots Check List for all operations.

 e. Operating limitations or special operating limitations.

 f. Prescribed markings and placards.

 g. Current weight and balance.

h. Aircraft status information indicating the total airframe and engine time and 

time to the next required inspection, i.e. Annual, 100 hour, Airworthiness 

Directives, Manufactures Service Bulletins, etc.

Original Issue Page 9
I. CERTIFICATION/AIRWORTHINESS, continued:

3. Frequency of Inspections

 a. The aircraft inspection program will not be altered and will be in accordance with 

those applicable sections of, FAR Part 91 and Part 43 .

 

 b. PATRICK MCKERNAN, or his designated representative will be responsible for 

assuring that the records of the 100 hour, Annual and/or Progressive, 

Airworthiness Directives, Manufactures Service Bulletins, E.L.T., 4096 Mode C 

Transponder and other required or approved inspections appropriate to the 

aircraft have been complied with before the aircraft are to be used in a filming 

production.

J. PILOT PERSONNEL MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

A. Minimum Pilot Requirements

The following are minimum requirements for pilot personnel:

1. Posses a current U.S. Commercial Pilot certificate with ratings appropriate to 

the category and class of aircraft to be used under the terms of the waiver.

2. Have a minimum of 500 hours as PIC and at least 20 hours logged as the PIC 

in the aircraft type.

 3. Have a minimum of 100 hours in the category and class of aircraft to be used.

4. Have a minimum of five (5) hours in the make and model aircraft to be 

utilized under this waiver.

5. In the event that the 1500-foot minimum standard contained in FAR Part 

91.303(e) is to be waived, the pilot performing aerobatic maneuvers must possess 

a valid FAA Form 8710-7, Statement of Aerobatic Competency, for the 

operations to be performed. 

 

Original Issue Page 10
PILOT PERSONNEL MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS, continued:

6. In the event the operation to be conducted contains elements of an external-load 

operation, whether fixed-wing or rotary operations, pilots utilized in the 

operation shall be qualified. This qualification may be obtained through a test of 

knowledge (which may be oral or written) and/or skill. A FAA inspector will 

give the test(s) or another company pilot approved by the FSDO and who is 

qualified to carry loads externally. These tests will be similar to 14CFR part 133 

requirements and cover the following subjects:

a. Steps to be taken before starting operations, including a survey of the flight 

area; 

b. Proper method of loading, rigging, or attaching the external-load;

c. Aircraft performance capabilities, motion picture operating procedures and the 

manufactures flight manual and limitations; 

d. Proper instructions of flight and ground crew personnel; and 

e. Aircraft flight manual, pilot operations handbook, or a rotorcraft-load 

combination flight manual, and limitations, if appropriate. 

Original Issue Page 11
K. COMMUNICATIONS

PATRICK MCKERNAN and the designated production representative will design 

and implement a plan for communications between the participants in the air and 

on the ground. The plan will incorporate the following:

1. Designated air and ground contact personnel.

2. Air to ground radios, VHF or FM.

3. Assignment of discreet frequencies.

4. Visual signals to be used in event of lost communications or inability to utilize 

radios.

5. Abort signals, audible and visual, ( flags, specified hand signals, lights or flares )

 to halt filming in the event of a breach of perimeter security, violation of prebriefed safety instructions, or other, unexpected circumstances.

L. ACCIDENT NOTIFICATION

 PATRICK MCKERNAN, will be responsible for accident notification to the FAA 

Flight Standards District Office having jurisdiction over the filming area and to 

notify the National Transportation Safety Board in accordance with, NTSB Part 

830*.

In the event of the incapacitation of PATRICK MCKERNAN, production will be 

provided with a copy of the Plan of Activities which shall include the phone number for 

the Flight Standards District Office having jurisdiction over the filming area and a 

notation that in the event of an accident to notify that FAA Flight Standards District 

Office, or the nearest FAA Flight Service Station at ( 1-800-992-7433 ) , immediately.

M. RECALL / STOP PROCEDURE

PATRICK MCKERNAN and the designated production representative can use any of 

the items listed above in K. Communications as long as it keeps the participants 

continuously apprised of the current status of the operation.

N. AEROBATIC CONPENTENCY

If the filming operations require the low altitude aerobatics the pilot is required to have 

a Current FAA Form 8710-7, Statement of Aerobatic Competency.

*See Page 15, Appendix B, CFR 49, Chapter III NTSB, Part 830.

Original Issue Page 12
APPENDIX A - DEFINITION OF TERMS USED

1. Pilot in Command*

The individual who has final authority and responsibility for the aircraft 

operation and safety of the flight.

2. Aerial Coordinator*

The Aerial Coordinator will be designated by PATRICK MCKERNAN and 

will be responsible for compliance with the conditions of the approved FAA

Certificate of Waiver for Motion Picture and Television Filming. PATRICK 

MCKERNAN shall maintain primary responsibility for safeguarding 

persons and property on the ground.

3. Security*

Security may consist of any person or group of persons that the producer 

employs to provide safeguards against intrusions to the production area by 

non-participating persons and the public in general. In most instances 

security personnel are contract personnel or local off-duty or retired police 

officers.

4. Producer*

The Producer is an individual or company that provides financing , 

management and supervision for the production of motion pictures, 

television and other entertainment events. 

5. Director*

The Director formulates and is responsible for the execution of the story 

requirements as set forth by the Producer.

Original Issue Page 13
6. Unit Production Manager and/or Production Manager*

The unit production manager is employed by the producer and is responsible 

for all production personnel, equipment, timely completion and budget 

compliance. Normally, the unit production manager is not on the filming 

location but is represented there by the 1st Assistant Director.

7. First Assistant Director*

The 1st Assistant Director is responsible for the scheduling and coordination 

of the day-to-day filming requirements as dictated by the Director. 

Additionally these daily requirements must be coordinated with the Unit 

Production Manager.

8. Second Assistant Director*

The 2nd Assistant Director is assigned by the Unit Production Manager to 

assist the 1st Assistant Director.

9. Stunt Coordinator/Stunt-person *

The Stunt Coordinator and/or Stunt-person is responsible for providing the 

expertise, safe methods and procedures to the Producers* for the 

accomplishment of the Directors* action sequences requiring specially 

trained and highly skilled Stunt personnel.

10. Call Sheet*

The call sheet is a daily schedule published by production, i.e. Unit 

Production Manager, Director and 1st Assistant Director listing the 

events, equipment, personnel, and location requirements for the following 

day, including notification of proposed aircraft activities and their proximity 

to production personnel and equipment. 

Original Issue Page 14
APPENDIX B - CFR 49, Chapter III NTSB, Part 830.

[Code of Federal Regulations]

[Title 49, Volume 5]

[Revised as of October 1, 2001]

From the U.S. Government Printing Office via GPO Access

[CITE: 49CFR830.1]

[Page 1195]

 TITLE 49--TRANSPORTATION

 CHAPTER VIII--NATIONAL TRANSPORTATION

 SAFETY BOARD

PART 830--NOTIFICATION AND REPORTING OF AIRCRAFT ACCIDENTS OR INCIDENTS 

AND OVERDUE AIRCRAFT, AND PRESERVATION OF AIRCRAFT WRECKAGE, MAIL, 

CARGO, AND RECORDS--Table of Contents

 Subpart A--General

Sec. 830.1 Applicability.

 This part contains rules pertaining to:

 (a) Initial notification and later reporting of aircraft incidents 

and accidents and certain other occurrences in the operation of 

aircraft, wherever they occur, when they involve civil aircraft of the 

United States; when they involve certain public aircraft, as specified 

in this part, wherever they occur; and when they involve foreign civil 

aircraft where the events occur in the United States, its territories, 

or its possessions.

 (b) Preservation of aircraft wreckage, mail, cargo, and records

involving all civil and certain public aircraft accidents, as specified 

in this part, in the United States and its territories or possessions.

[60 FR 40112, Aug. 7, 1995]

 

Original Issue Page 15
 CHAPTER VIII--NATIONAL TRANSPORTATION

 SAFETY BOARD

PART 830--NOTIFICATION AND REPORTING OF AIRCRAFT ACCIDENTS OR INCIDENTS

AND OVERDUE AIRCRAFT, AND PRESERVATION OF AIRCRAFT WRECKAGE, MAIL, 

CARGO, AND RECORDS--Table of Contents

 Subpart A--General

Sec. 830.2 Definitions.

 As used in this part the following words or phrases are defined as 

follows:

 Aircraft accident means an occurrence associated with the 

operation of an aircraft which takes place between the time any person 

boards the aircraft with the intention of flight and all such persons 

have disembarked, and in which any person suffers death or serious 

injury, or in which the aircraft receives substantial damage.

Civil aircraft means any aircraft other than a public aircraft. 

Fatal injury means any injury which results in death within 30 days of 

the accident.

Incident means an occurrence other than an accident, associated 

withthe operation of an aircraft, which affects or could affect the 

safety of operations.

 Operator means any person who causes or authorizes the operation of 

an aircraft, such as the owner, lessee, or bailee of an aircraft.

Public aircraft means an aircraft used only for the United States 

Government, or an aircraft owned and operated (except for commercial 

purposes) or exclusively leased for at least 90 continuous days by a 

government other than the United States Government, including a State, 

the District of Columbia, a territory or possession of the United 

States, or a political subdivision of that government. ``Public 

aircraft'' does not include a government-owned aircraft transporting 

property for commercial purposes and does not include a governmentowned aircraft transporting passengers other than: transporting (for 

other than commercial purposes) crewmembers or other persons aboard the 

aircraft whose presence is required to perform, or is associated with 

the performance of, a governmental function such as firefighting, 

search and rescue, law enforcement, aeronautical research, or 

biological or geological resource management; or transporting (for 

other than commercial purposes) persons aboard the aircraft if the 

aircraft is operated by the Armed Forces or an intelligence agency of 

the United States.

Original Issue Page 15a
Notwithstanding any limitation relating to use of the aircraft for 

commercial purposes, an aircraft shall be considered to be a public 

aircraft without regard to whether it is operated by a unit of 

government on behalf of another unit of government pursuant to a cost 

reimbursement agreement, if the unit of government on whose behalf the 

operation is conducted certifies to the Administrator of the Federal 

Aviation Administration that the operation was necessary to respond to 

a significant and imminent threat to life or property (including 

natural resources) and that no service by a private operator was 

reasonably available to meet the threat.

 Serious injury means any injury which: (1) Requires hospitalization 

for more than 48 hours, commencing within 7 days from the date of the 

injury was received; (2) results in a fracture of any bone (except 

simple fractures of fingers, toes, or nose); (3) causes severe 

hemorrhages, nerve, muscle, or tendon damage; (4) involves any internal 

organ; or (5) involves second- or third-degree burns, or any burns 

affecting more than 5 percent of the body surface.

 Substantial damage means damage or failure which adversely affects 

the structural strength, performance, or flight characteristics of the 

aircraft, and which would normally require major repair or replacement 

of the affected component. Engine failure or damage limited to an 

engine if only one engine fails or is damaged, bent fairings or 

cowling, dented skin, small punctured holes in the skin or fabric, 

ground damage to rotor or propeller blades, and damage to landing gear, 

wheels, tires, flaps, engine accessories, brakes, or wingtips are not 

considered ``substantial damage'' for the purpose of this part.

[53 FR 36982, Sept. 23, 1988, as amended at 60 FR 40112, Aug. 7, 1995]

 

Original Issue Page 15b
 CHAPTER VIII--NATIONAL TRANSPORTATION

 SAFETY BOARD

PART 830--NOTIFICATION AND REPORTING OF AIRCRAFT ACCIDENTS OR INCIDENTS 

AND OVERDUE AIRCRAFT, AND PRESERVATION OF AIRCRAFT WRECKAGE, MAIL, 

CARGO, AND RECORDS--Table of Contents

 Subpart B--Initial Notification of Aircraft Accidents, Incidents, and 

 Overdue Aircraft

Sec. 830.5 Immediate notification.

 The operator of any civil aircraft, or any public aircraft not 

operated by the Armed Forces or an intelligence agency of the United 

States, or any foreign aircraft shall immediately, and by the most 

expeditious means available, notify the nearest National Transportation 

Safety Board (Board) field office \1\ when: 

\1\ The Board field offices are listed under U.S. Government in the 

telephone directories of the following cities: Anchorage, AK, Atlanta, 

GA, West Chicago, IL, Denver, CO, Arlington, TX, Gardena (Los Angeles), 

CA, Miami, FL, Parsippany, NJ (metropolitan New York, NY), Seattle, WA, 

and Washington, DC.

 

(a) An aircraft accident or any of the following listed incidents 

occur:

 (1) Flight control system malfunction or failure;

 (2) Inability of any required flight crewmember to perform normal 

flight duties as a result of injury or illness;

 (3) Failure of structural components of a turbine engine excluding 

compressor and turbine blades and vanes;

 (4) In-flight fire; or

 (5) Aircraft collide in flight.

 (6) Damage to property, other than the aircraft, estimated to 

exceed $25,000 for repair (including materials and labor) or fair 

market value in the event of total loss, whichever is less.

 (7) For large multiengine aircraft (more than 12,500 pounds maximum 

certificated takeoff weight):

 (i) In-flight failure of electrical systems which requires the 

sustained use of an emergency bus powered by a back-up source such as a 

battery, auxiliary power unit, or air-driven generator to retain flight 

control or essential instruments;

 (ii) In-flight failure of hydraulic systems that results in 

sustained reliance on the sole remaining hydraulic or mechanical system 

for movement of flight control surfaces;

 (iii) Sustained loss of the power or thrust produced by two or more 

engines; and

 (iv) An evacuation of an aircraft in which an emergency egress 

system is utilized.

 (b) An aircraft is overdue and is believed to have been involved in 

an accident.

[53 FR 36982, Sept. 23, 1988, as amended at 60 FR 40113, Aug. 7, 1995]

 Original Issue Page 15c

 
CHAPTER VIII--NATIONAL TRANSPORTATION

SAFETY BOARD

PART 830--NOTIFICATION AND REPORTING OF AIRCRAFT ACCIDENTS OR INCIDENTS 

AND OVERDUE AIRCRAFT, AND PRESERVATION OF AIRCRAFT WRECKAGE, MAIL, 

CARGO, AND RECORDS--Table of Contents

 Subpart C--Preservation of Aircraft Wreckage, Mail, Cargo, and Records

Sec. 830.10 Preservation of aircraft wreckage, mail, cargo, and 

records. 

(a) The operator of an aircraft involved in an accident or incident 

for which notification must be given is responsible for preserving to 

the extent possible any aircraft wreckage, cargo, and mail aboard the 

aircraft, and all records, including all recording mediums of flight, 

maintenance, and voice recorders, pertaining to the operation and 

maintenance of the aircraft and to the airmen until the Board takes 

custody thereof or a release is granted pursuant to Sec. 831.12(b) of 

this chapter.

(b) Prior to the time the Board or its authorized representative 

takes custody of aircraft wreckage, mail, or cargo, such wreckage, 

mail, or cargo may not be disturbed or moved except to the extent 

necessary:

 (1) To remove persons injured or trapped;

 (2) To protect the wreckage from further damage; or

 (3) To protect the public from injury.

 (c) Where it is necessary to move aircraft wreckage, mail or cargo, 

sketches, descriptive notes, and photographs shall be made, if 

possible,of the original positions and condition of the wreckage and 

any significant impact marks.

 (d) The operator of an aircraft involved in an accident or incident 

shall retain all records, reports, internal documents, and memoranda 

dealing with the accident or incident, until authorized by the Board to 

the contrary.

 

Original Issue Page 15d
 CHAPTER VIII--NATIONAL TRANSPORTATION

 SAFETY BOARD

PART 830--NOTIFICATION AND REPORTING OF AIRCRAFT ACCIDENTS OR INCIDENTS 

AND OVERDUE AIRCRAFT, AND PRESERVATION OF AIRCRAFT WRECKAGE, MAIL, 

CARGO, AND RECORDS--Table of Contents

Subpart D--Reporting of Aircraft Accidents, Incidents, and Overdue 

Aircraft

Sec. 830.15 Reports and statements to be filed.

 (a) Reports. The operator of a civil, public (as specified in 

Sec. 830.5), or foreign aircraft shall file a report on Board Form 

6120.\1/2\ (OMB No. 3147-0001) \2\ within 10 days after an accident, or 

after 7 days if an overdue aircraft is still missing. 

A report on an incident for which immediate notification is required by 

Sec. 830.5(a)shall be filed only as requested by an authorized 

representative of the Board.

 \2\ Forms are available from the Board field offices (see footnote 

1), from Board headquarters in Washington, DC, and from the Federal 

Aviation Administration Flight Standards District Offices.

(b) Crewmember statement. Each crewmember, if physically able at 

the time the report is submitted, shall attach a statement setting 

forth the facts, conditions, and circumstances relating to the accident 

or incident as they appear to him. If the crewmember is incapacitated, 

he shall submit the statement as soon as he is physically able.

 (c) Where to file the reports. The operator of an aircraft shall 

file any report with the field office of the Board nearest the accident 

or incident.

[53 FR 36982, Sept. 23, 1988, as amended at 60 FR 40113, Aug. 7, 1995]

Original Issue Page 15e
APPENDIX C - AIRCRAFT EXTERNAL LOAD OPERATIONS

Provisions for essential personnel to film or be filmed while on the exterior of ,

entering, or exiting an aircraft in flight.

AIRPLANES (1)

(1) Airplanes: e.g. wing walkers, parachutist, cameramen, air to air transfers, air to 

ground transfers and all other previously demonstrated traditional motion picture 

activities. 

 (1) a. Traditional motion picture activities include stunt persons wing walking, 

transferring air to air between airplanes, air to ground, from airplanes to surface 

vehicles and various other scenarios where essential personnel may be required 

outside the aircraft. Stunt persons are often called upon to hang from landing gear 

struts, wing struts, trapeze devices, bungee cords, cables, etc.

Safe completion of these operations require the complete understanding and 

coordination of all parties involved, i.e. the pilot, stunt persons, airplane riggers, 

and essential ground crew.

In performing these type of operations the following guidelines shall be used. 

(1) b. Risk management:

Waiver Holder, Pilot in Command, stunt persons, airplane rigging, safety and 

production personnel will conduct a thorough evaluation of the operations to be 

conducted and the potential risk to essential personnel, if any. 

(1) c. Briefing:

Briefings will be conducted by the waiver holder or Pilot in Command, specific to 

the scheduled airplane external load operations and in compliance with the

accepted, Motion Picture Operations Manual briefing provisions. 

(1) d. Communications: 

 

Communication must exist at all times between the Pilot in Command, the stunt 

person and other essential personnel. This can be accomplished through the use of 

radios, intercoms or pre-briefed hand signals. 

Original Issue Page 16
Additionally the Pilot in Command must be able to maintain visual contact with the 

stunt person in event of lost communications. If visual contact cannot be 

maintained, then a third party, who can maintain visual contact, will be used. This 

person may be on-board the aircraft, on the ground, or in a chase aircraft. 

(1) e. Attaching methods and devices: 

Unless performing an essential function outside the aircraft all personnel must be 

attached to the aircraft during movement on the surface , takeoff or landing. 

Seat belts, cables and safety lines will be attached to existing aircraft hard points, 

seat belt attach points, cargo tie down points, or other suitable airframe locations. 

 

Attaching devices, cables, carabineer’s, braided nylon climbing rope, nylon straps, 

steel clevises, body harnesses, etc. are normally provided by the motion picture 

special effects and / or stunt personnel. 

All of the above attaching devices have load ratings established by the manufacturer 

in compliance with various industry and government specifications and established 

Motion Picture safety guidelines. 

(1) f. Parachutes:

If parachutes are to be used they must be of an approved type and certified within 

the preceding 120 days.

While wearing a parachute a stunt person must not be attached to the aircraft, 

unless specifically rigged for that purpose. An accidental deployment while 

attached to the airplane could have serious negative effect on the aircraft and 

parachutist. 

(1) g. Weight and Balance:

Due to the nature of airplane external loads involving persons or equipment, the 

longitudinal C.G. considerations are nominal and can be easily calculated using the 

manufactures weight and balance data.

 

Conversely, the majority of airplane external loads involving persons or equipment 

are more likely to effect the lateral weight and balance. Airplane manufactures 

normally do not provide lateral C.G. charts or limits.

Original Issue Page 17
Therefore it is essential to determine what effect a wing walker or other essential 

personnel required to be on the exterior of the airplane will have on the airplanes 

lateral C.G. prior to attaching them to a specific location. This can be accomplished 

through consultation with other Pilots in Command who have previous experience 

with similar aircraft and configurations, or through a flight evaluation.

(1) i. Pilot in Command External Load Check List:

A. Aircraft 

1. Load bearing capacity and method of securing of all attaching devices 

related to the external load.

 2. Verification of load bearing capacity and anticipated loads on the 

airframe attach points to be utilized.

3. Accomplish Weight and Balance of the external load , including if 

necessary the possible release or departure of the external load.

B. Personnel

1. Verify that only essential personnel are onboard the aircraft.

 2. Confirm essential personnel specific duties and responsibilities.

3. Communications check, audio and visual. 

4. Review emergency procedures specific to the external load operation 

with all essential personnel.

5. Review potential risk, if any with the essential personnel.

6. No essential personnel may participate in the airplane external load 

operation unless they have read, understand, and agree to comply with 

the conditions of the Waiver Holder’s, Certificate of Waiver and its 

special provisions, if any.

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HELICOPTERS (2)

( 2 ) Helicopters: e.g. rappelling, long-line, rope ladders, parachutist, cameramen, 

air to air transfers. air to ground transfers and all other previously demonstrated 

traditional motion picture activities. 

(2) a. Traditional helicopter motion picture activities include stunt persons 

transferring air to air between helicopter and airplane, air to ground between 

surface vehicles or persons, Rappelling, Fast Roping and many other scenarios 

where essential personnel may be required outside the helicopter. Stunt persons and 

cameramen are often called upon to stand upon or hang from landing gear skids, 

cargo hooks, trapeze devices, bungee cords, cables, ladders, long-lines, etc.

Safe completion of these operations require the complete understanding and 

coordination of all parties involved, i.e. the Pilot in Command, stunt persons, 

helicopter riggers, and essential ground crew.

In performing these type of operations the following guidelines should be used. 

(2) b. Risk management: 

 

Waiver Holder, Pilot in Command, stunt persons, helicopter rigging, safety and 

production personnel will conduct a thorough evaluation of the operations to be 

conducted and the potential risk to essential personnel, if any. 

(2) c. Briefing:

Briefings will be conducted by the Waiver Holder or Pilot in Command, specific to 

the scheduled helicopter external load operations and in compliance with the 

accepted, Motion Picture Operations Manual briefing provisions. 

(2) d. Communication: 

 

Communication must exist at all times between the Pilot in Command the stunt 

person and other essential personnel. This can be accomplished through the use of 

radios, intercoms or pre-briefed visual signals. 

Additionally the Pilot in Command must be able to maintain visual contact with the 

stunt person in event of lost communications. If visual contact cannot be maintained, 

then a third party, who can maintain visual contact and communicate with the Pilot 

in Command will be used. This person may be on board the helicopter, on the 

ground, or in a chase aircraft. 

Original Issue Page 19
(2) e. Attaching methods and devices: 

Unless performing an essential function outside the aircraft, all personnel must be 

attached to the aircraft during movement on the surface, takeoff or landing. 

Seat belts, cables and safety lines will be attached to existing helicopter hard points, 

seat belt attach points, cargo tie down points, airframe bridles, or other suitable 

airframe locations. 

 

Attaching devices, cables, carabineers, braided nylon climbing rope, nylon straps, 

steel clevises, body harnesses, etc. are normally provided by the motion picture 

special effects and / or stunt personnel. 

All of the above attaching devices have load ratings established by the manufacturer 

in compliance with various industry and government specifications and established 

Motion Picture safety guidelines. 

2 f. Parachutes:

If parachutes are to be used they must be of an approved type and certified within 

the preceding 120 days. 

While wearing a parachute a stunt person must not be attached to the aircraft, 

unless specifically rigged for that purpose. An accidental deployment while attached 

to the helicopter could have serious negative effect on the aircraft and parachutist. 

(2) g. Rappelling:

A. Pilot in Command Qualifications: 

1. See page 10 paragraph J of this manual.

Original Issue Page 20
B. Rappeller Qualifications :

1. Rappellers and Spotters, will be required to demonstrate there ability 

during required familiarization flights.

2. The Waiver Holder and or Pilot in Command will have the authority 

to withhold approval of any rappeler or spotter.

C. Rappelling Special Provisions : 

 1. The Waiver Holder, or the Pilot in Command, has the authority to 

cancel or delete any activity or event, if in their opinion, the safety of 

persons or property on the ground or in the air is at risk, or if there is 

a contravention to the provisions of the Motion Picture Waiver. 

(2) h. Weight and Balance : 

Due to the nature of helicopter external loads involving essential persons or 

equipment, diligent review and compliance with the manufactures weight and 

balance data is required.

Prior to the initial flight of a new external load configuration, a Weight and Balance 

computation should be completed prior to flight or hover. Hovering test shall be 

conducted to verify the lateral and longitudinal centers of gravity and maximum 

allowable helicopter weight. 

(2) i. Pilot in Commands External Load Check List:

A. Aircraft: 

1. Load bearing capacity and method of securing of all attaching devices 

related to the external load.

 2. Verification of load bearing capacity and anticipated loads on the 

airframe attach points to be utilized.

3. Accomplish external load Weight and Balance calculations including, 

the possible release or departure of the external load.

4. Verify operation of load release device, if any.

 

Original Issue Page 21
 B. Personnel:

 1. Verify that only essential personnel are onboard the aircraft.

 2. Confirm essential personnel specific duties and responsibilities.

 3. Communications check, audio and visual signals.

4. Review emergency procedures specific to the external load operation 

with all essential personnel.

5. Review potential risk, if any with the essential personnel. 

 6. No essential personnel may participate in the helicopter external load 

operation unless they have read, understand, and agree to comply with 

the conditions of the Waiver Holder’s Certificate of Waiver and its 

special provisions, if any.

 C. Rappel Equipment:

1. Rope size: A minimum of 11-mm (7/16-inch) diameter will be required 

for all Rappel operations.

2. Rope strength: For each specific load, a safety factor of 10:1 between 

the strength of the weakest piece of attaching equipment and the load to 

be carried, will be utilized. The absolute minimum tensile strength of 

any Rappel rope will be 5000 lbs. tested to NFPA standards.

3. Ropes will have a rubber jacket to give protection on door sills and 

edges when using floor attach points.

4. Carabiners: Steel or aluminum must have a minimum tensile strength 

of 5000 lbs and tested to NFPA standards.

5. Cutting devices: Knives, cable cutters, etc. sufficient to cut any 

attaching devise will be provided to the spotter or safety person for use 

in an emergency.

6. Rappel ropes will have a minimum of two airframe attach points per 

rope. 

Original Issue Page 22
(2 ) j. Fast Roping:

A. Pilot in Command Qualifications:

1. See page 10 paragraph J of this manual.

B. Fast Rope Personnel Qualifications:

1. Fast Ropers and Spotters will be required to demonstrate their

ability during required familiarization flights.

2. The Waiver Holder and or Pilot in Command will have the authority to 

withhold approval of any Fast Roper or Spotter. 

 C. Fast Roping Special Provisions: 

1. The Waiver Holder or the Pilot in Command has the authority to

cancel or delete any activity or event if, in their opinion, the safety of 

persons or property on the ground or in the air is at risk, or if there is a 

contravention to the provisions of the Motion Picture Waiver.

 D. Fast Rope Equipment:

 1. Airframe attach points must be of an FAA approved type, providing 

sufficient lateral arm to extend beyond the outer most portion of the 

helicopter airframe and be certified for a 10:1 weight bearing capacity. 

 2. Fast Rope size: A minimum of 1 3/4 inches in diameter.

 3. Fast Rope strength: For each specific load, a safety factor of 10:1 

between the strength of the weakest piece of attaching equipment and 

the load to be carried will be utilized. The absolute minimum tensile 

strength of any Fast Rope will be 9000 lbs.

 

Original Issue Page 23
4. Cutting devices: Knifes, cable cutter’s , etc. sufficient to cut any 

attaching devise will be provided to the spotter or safety persons for 

use in an emergency.

5. Fast Ropes will have a minimum of two airframe attach points per 

rope.

( 2 ) k. Weight and Balance :

 See paragraph, ( 2 ) h. 

( 2 ) l. Pilot in Commands Check List : 

A. Aircraft / See Paragraph, ( 2 ) i.

B. Personnel / See Page 22 paragraph B

Original Issue Page 24
BALLOONS (3)

(3) Balloons: e.g. rappelling, long line, rope ladders, parachutist, trapeze, 

cameramen, bungee jumps, air to ground transfers and all other previously 

demonstrated, traditional motion picture activities.

( 3) a. Traditional ballooning motion picture activities include, air to ground 

transfers to surface vehicles or persons, rappelling, parachuting, long line and many 

other scenarios where essential personnel may be required outside of the balloon 

basket or gondola. 

Stunt persons and cameramen are often called upon to stand outside of or hang 

from the basket or gondola, cargo hooks, trapeze devices, bungee cords, cables, 

ladders, long lines, etc.

Safe completion of these operations require the complete understanding and 

coordination of all parties involved, i.e. the Pilot in Command, stunt persons, 

balloon riggers, and essential ground crew.

(3) b. Risk management:

Waiver Holder, Pilot in Command, stunt persons, balloon rigging, safety and 

production personnel will conduct a thorough evaluation of the operations to be 

conducted and the potential risk to essential personnel, if any. 

 

 (3) c. Briefing:

Briefings will be conducted by the Waiver Holder or Pilot in Command, specific to 

the scheduled balloon external load operations and in compliance with the accepted,

Motion Picture Operations Manual briefing provisions. 

 (3) d. Communication: 

 

Communication must exist at all times between the Pilot in Command, the stunt 

person and other essential personnel. This can be accomplished through the use of 

radios, intercoms, or pre-briefed visual signals. 

Original Issue Page 25

 
 

 The Pilot in Command must be able to maintain visual contact with the stunt person in 

event of lost communications. If visual contact cannot be maintained by the pilot, then 

a third party communicating with the pilot who can maintain visual contact, will be 

used. This person may be on board the balloon, on the ground, or in a chase aircraft. 

 (3) e. Attaching methods and devices: 

Belts, harnesses, cables and safety lines will be attached to existing balloon basket or 

gondola hard points, cargo tie down points, basket or gondola bridles, or other 

suitable basket or gondola locations. 

 

Attaching devices: Cables, carabiners, braided nylon climbing rope, nylon straps, 

steel clevises, body harnesses , etc. are normally provided by the motion picture 

special effects and / or stunt personnel. 

All of the above attaching devices have load ratings established by the manufacturer 

in compliance with various industry and government specifications and established 

Motion Picture safety guidelines. 

 (3) f. Parachutes:

If parachutes are to be used they must be of an approved type and certified within 

the preceding 120 days.

 

3) g. Rappelling:

A. Pilot in Command Qualifications : 

 1. See page 10 paragraph J of this manual. 

Original Issue Page 26
B. Rappeller Qualifications :

 1. Rappellers and Spotters will be required to demonstrate their ability 

during required familiarization flights.

 2. The Waiver Holder and or Pilot in Command will have the authority to withhold 

approval of any rappeller or spotter. 

C. Rappelling, Special Provisions: 

1. The Waiver Holder, or the Pilot in Command, has he authority to cancel or 

delete any activity or event, if in their opinion the safety of persons or property 

on the ground, or in the air is at risk, or if there is a contravention to the 

provisions of the Motion Picture Waiver. 

 

(3) h. Weight and Balance : 

Due to the nature of balloon external loads involving essential persons or 

equipment, diligent review and compliance with the manufactures 

maximum weight data is required.

(3) i. Pilot in Command Rappelling Check List:

 A. Aircraft: 

1. Load bearing capacity and method of securing of all attaching devices 

related to the external load.

 2. Verification of load bearing capacity and anticipated loads on the basket or 

gondola attach points to be utilized.

3. Verify operation of load release devices, if any.

Original Issue Page 27
 

B. Personnel:

 1. Verify that only essential personnel are onboard the aircraft. 

 2. Confirm essential personnel specific duties and responsibilities.

 3. Communications check, audio and visual signals.

 4. Review emergency procedures specific to the external load operation with 

all essential personnel.

 5. Review potential risk, if any, with the essential personnel. 

 6. No essential personnel may participate in the balloon external load 

operation unless they have read, understand, and agree to comply with the 

conditions of the Waiver Holder’s, Certificate of Waiver and its special 

provisions, if any.

C. Rappel Equipment

 1. Rope size: A minimum of 11-mm (7/16-inch) diameter will be required for 

all Rappel operations.

 2. Rope strength: For each specific load, a safety factor of 10:1 between the 

strength of the weakest piece of attaching equipment and the load to be 

carried, will be utilized. The absolute minimum tensile strength of any 

Rappel rope will be 5000 lbs. tested to NFPA standards.

 3. Ropes will have a rubber jacket to give protection on door sills and edges

when using floor attach points.

 4. Carabiners: Steel or aluminum must have a minimum tensile strength of 

5000 lbs. and tested to NFPA standards. 

 

 5. Cutting devises: Knifes, cable cutters, etc. sufficient to cut any attaching 

devise will be provided to safety persons for use in an emergency.

 6. Rappel ropes will have a minimum of two basket, or gondola attach points 

per rope. 

Original Issue Page 28
APPENDIX D - SPECIAL PROVISIONS AEROBATICS

 1. Aircraft Speeds

 All filming of aerobatic aircraft operating at speeds in excess of 156 knots shall 

be conducted at least 1,500 feet horizontally from non-essential crew areas. All 

filming of aerobatic aircraft operating at speeds of 156 knots or less shall be 

conducted at least 500 feet horizontally from non-essential crew areas.

2. Aerobatic Maneuvers

 All aerobatic maneuvers shall be conducted in a direction which will most 

nearly parallel the boundaries of the non-essential crew areas, or in a direction 

away from such areas.

 3. Visibility

 Aerobatic maneuvers are not authorized if the visibility is less than three miles 

and a ceiling that will permit aerobatic maneuvers to be conducted at least 

1,000-feet below the cloud base.

 4. Communications

 Adequate oral or visual communications shall be provided to advise essential 

and non-essential crew-members that the filming of aerobatic aircraft is about to 

commence and/or has been halted, or to otherwise communicate with crew

members as required to maintain a safe operation. 

 Communications shall be by VHF or FM Transceivers, or any other acceptable 

visual means.

Original Issue Page 29
 5. Crew Areas

 Designated areas shall be provided for non-essential crew-members to 

exclude them from the operational area. PATRICK MCKERNAN or the 

designated production representative, will provide adequate security to 

confine the non-essential crew to the designated areas.

6. Temporary Halt or Cancellation of Aerobatic Aircraft Operations

 PATRICK MCKERNAN his representative, or the designated production 

representative shall have the responsibility to temporarily halt or cancel 

filming if the following conditions should occur:

a. Safety of persons or property at risk on the ground or in the air.

 b. Contravention of the terms or conditions of the Motion Picture and 

Television Waiver and / or accompanying Operations Manual. 

c. Unauthorized persons or aircraft entering the aerobatic filming area.

d. For any other reason in the interest of safety. 

 Halting of the filming shall be accomplished by the pre briefed methods of 

communications.

 7. Deadlines

 Deadlines, man-made or natural and readily understood by the Pilot in 

Command, shall be provided to ensure that aircraft remain the approved 

distance from the non-essential crew areas.

Original Issue Page 30
8. Control Point

 PATRICK MCKERNAN shall establish a control point from which he, or 

his designated representative, will coordinate the flying and shall be 

immediately available to all participants during the aerobatic flight 

operations.

 9. Notification of FAA Flight Service Station

 PATRICK MCKERNAN or his designated representative will notify the 

Flight Service Station having jurisdiction over the filming area 24 hours 

prior to any proposed aerobatic flights and request that a Notice to Airmen

( NOTAM ) be issued indicating date, time, location, duration and altitudes

of the proposed aerobatic flights. 

 

Original Issue Page 31