Practice question

Helicopter functional check flights may be conducted concurrently during fixed wing flight operations.

  1. False
  2. True
  3. Only during certain operations
  4. Not at all

Answer: B — True

Concurrency in carrier flight operations is allowed when safety and deconfliction are maintained. A helicopter functional check flight (FCF) is a controlled, limited flight used to verify helicopter systems and handling after maintenance, and it can be scheduled to operate while fixed-wing aircraft are also conducting operations. With proper coordination through the air boss and CATCC, a safe window and designated airspace can be set aside for the helicopter to perform its checks, using patterns or positions that avoid conflicting with fixed-wing traffic and rotor‑wash concerns. This approach keeps the ship ready and minimizes downtime, provided all safety procedures and communication protocols are strictly followed.

Practice more: Carrier Air Traffic Control Center (CATCC) Practice Exam →