Expert: Ned Dolan - 8/1/2005

Question
Hi,

Reference Helicopter (preferably).

I would like to ask you a question on the recording of airframe hours. Can you please explain to me how a pilot accurately records flying hours:

Is there a device on board to accurately recording airframe hours?

Or,

Does the pilot simply make a note of the time when starting the engines and a note when shutting down? If this is the case, when does the recording take place; engine start, rotors turn, commence taxing or skids off????

I am trying to look at an accurate device to record these hours either electrically or mechanically to an Army aircraft!

Thanks for your time.

Christian Rouse

Answer
Flying time commences when the aircraft moves under its own power for the purpose of flight and ends when it comes to a rest after landing according to the FARs.

Normally the pilot makes a note of these times and records them in a log book. Some commerical aircraft have telemetry type devices that automatically record the times and transmit them to computer used for the purpose.

Sorry I have no further details for you.  

Ned