Top 10 Questions for Flight Engineer, Helicopter Interview

1. Describe the role of a Flight Engineer in Helicopter operations?

As a Flight Engineer, I am responsible for the safe and efficient operation of the helicopter.

• My duties include monitoring and maintaining the aircraft’s systems, assisting the pilot with flight planning and navigation, and performing troubleshooting and repairs as necessary.
• I also work closely with the ground crew to ensure that the helicopter is properly maintained and ready for flight.

2. Explain the significance of weight and balance calculation in helicopter operations?

Calculating weight and balance

• The weight and balance of a helicopter is critical to its safe operation.
• If the helicopter is not properly balanced, it can be unstable and difficult to control.

Importance of weight and balance calculation

• Weight and balance calculations are used to determine the distribution of weight within the helicopter.
• This information is used to ensure that the helicopter is within its weight and balance limits.
• Weight and balance calculations are also used to determine the helicopter’s center of gravity.
• The center of gravity must be within the helicopter’s allowable range for safe operation.

3. Discuss the various types of helicopter flight controls and their functions?

There are three main types of helicopter flight controls:

• Cyclic control: The cyclic control is used to control the helicopter’s pitch and roll axes.
• Collective control: The collective control is used to control the helicopter’s altitude.
• Rudder pedals: The rudder pedals are used to control the helicopter’s yaw axis.

In addition to these three primary controls, there are also a number of other controls that are used to operate the helicopter, such as the throttle, the trim controls, and the autopilot.

4. Elaborate on the procedures involved in pre-flight inspection of a helicopter?

A pre-flight inspection is a critical safety procedure that must be performed before every flight.

• The inspection includes a visual check of the helicopter’s exterior, as well as a check of the helicopter’s systems.
• The visual check includes looking for any damage or leaks.
• The systems check includes checking the helicopter’s engine, transmission, hydraulics, and electrical systems.

Once the pre-flight inspection is complete, the pilot can then sign off on the helicopter’s maintenance log.

5. Explain the principles of helicopter aerodynamics?

Helicopter aerodynamics is the study of the forces that act on a helicopter in flight.

• These forces include lift, weight, thrust, and drag.
• Lift is the force that keeps the helicopter in the air.
• Lift is generated by the helicopter’s rotor blades.
• Weight is the force of gravity pulling the helicopter down.
• Thrust is the force that moves the helicopter forward.
• Drag is the force that opposes the helicopter’s motion.

The pilot must understand the principles of helicopter aerodynamics in order to safely operate the helicopter.

6. Describe the factors that affect the performance of a helicopter?

The performance of a helicopter is affected by a number of factors, including:

• Weight: The weight of the helicopter affects its lift and drag.
• Altitude: The altitude affects the helicopter’s density.
• Temperature: The temperature affects the helicopter’s engine power.
• Wind: The wind affects the helicopter’s lift and drag.

The pilot must take all of these factors into account when planning a flight.

7. How do you troubleshoot a helicopter engine problem?

Troubleshooting a helicopter engine problem requires a systematic approach.

• The first step is to identify the symptoms of the problem.
• Once the symptoms have been identified, the next step is to consult the helicopter’s maintenance manual.
• The maintenance manual will provide a list of possible causes for the problem.
• The next step is to test each of the possible causes until the problem is found.
• Once the problem has been found, it can be repaired.

Troubleshooting a helicopter engine problem can be a complex and time-consuming process.

8. What are the different types of helicopter emergencies and how do you respond to them?

There are a number of different types of helicopter emergencies, including:

• Engine failure: An engine failure is a serious emergency that requires the pilot to take immediate action.
• Autorotation: Autorotation is a procedure that is used to land a helicopter without power.
• Loss of tail rotor: A loss of tail rotor is a very serious emergency that can cause the helicopter to spin out of control.

The pilot must be trained to respond to all of these emergencies in order to safely operate the helicopter.

9. How do you maintain situational awareness while flying a helicopter?

Maintaining situational awareness is critical to the safe operation of a helicopter.

• Scan the environment: The pilot must constantly scan the environment for other aircraft, obstacles, and weather hazards.
• Use instruments: The pilot must use the helicopter’s instruments to monitor the helicopter’s performance.
• Communicate with others: The pilot must communicate with other aircraft and ground personnel to stay informed of the situation.

Maintaining situational awareness requires the pilot to be constantly alert and attentive.

10. What are the challenges of flying a helicopter in mountainous terrain?

Flying a helicopter in mountainous terrain presents a number of challenges, including:

• High altitudes: The high altitudes can cause the helicopter’s engine to lose power.
• Strong winds: The strong winds can make it difficult to control the helicopter.
• Turbulence: The turbulence can cause the helicopter to become unstable.

The pilot must be aware of these challenges and take appropriate precautions when flying in mountainous terrain.

As a Flight Engineer, Helicopter, you will play a vital role in the safe and efficient operation of helicopter aircraft. Your responsibilities will include:

1. Monitoring and Maintaining Flight Systems

You will be responsible for monitoring and maintaining the helicopter’s flight systems, including the engine, hydraulics, and electrical systems. You will also be responsible for diagnosing and troubleshooting any problems that may arise with these systems.

• Monitor engine performance and fuel consumption
• Maintain hydraulic and electrical systems

2. Performing Flight Calculations

You will be responsible for performing flight calculations, such as weight and balance calculations, fuel consumption calculations, and navigation calculations. You will also be responsible for using these calculations to plan and execute flight operations.

• Calculate weight and balance of aircraft
• Plan and execute flight operations

3. Assisting the Pilot

You will assist the pilot with the operation of the helicopter, including performing pre-flight checks, operating the helicopter’s controls, and monitoring the helicopter’s flight path.

• Perform pre-flight checks
• Operate helicopter’s controls

4. Maintaining Flight Records

You will be responsible for maintaining flight records, such as flight logs, maintenance logs, and crew logs. You will also be responsible for ensuring that these records are accurate and up to date.

• Maintain flight logs
• Maintain maintenance logs

To ace your interview for a Flight Engineer, Helicopter position, it is important to be well-prepared and to showcase your knowledge and skills. Here are a few tips to help you succeed:

1. Research the Company and Position

Take the time to research the company you are interviewing with and the specific position you are applying for. This will help you to understand the company’s culture and values, and it will also help you to tailor your answers to the interviewer’s questions.

• Visit the company website
• Read industry publications

2. Practice Your Answers to Common Interview Questions

There are a number of common interview questions that you are likely to be asked, such as “Why are you interested in this position?” and “Tell me about your experience in flight engineering.” It is important to practice your answers to these questions so that you can deliver them confidently and concisely.

• Prepare answers to common interview questions
• Practice delivering your answers out loud

3. Highlight Your Skills and Experience

Make sure to highlight your skills and experience that are relevant to the Flight Engineer, Helicopter position. For example, if you have experience in monitoring and maintaining helicopter flight systems, be sure to emphasize this in your interview.

• Quantify your accomplishments
• Use specific examples to illustrate your skills

4. Be Enthusiastic and Professional

It is important to be enthusiastic and professional during your interview. This will show the interviewer that you are interested in the position and that you are a good fit for the company.

• Dress professionally
• Arrive on time for your interview