FI(B) Night rating extension

Overview

Balloon Flight Instructor for Night training - course overview

The aim of the Flight Instructor (Balloon) extension for Night Training is to train you as holder of the FI(B) to the level of competence defined in point BFCL.325 for the training operation in night. This FI(B) night extension training constitutes the specific requirements referred to in point BFCL.315(a)(3) regarding instructional privileges for the night rating. The course takes approximately 1 day.

The Balloon Flight Instructor Night extension training course consists of 1 flight lasting approximately 1 hour with associated pre-flight and postflight briefing.

The FI(B) Night rating extension training does not require you to attend the FI(B) assessment of competence with EASA Balloon Flight Examiner.

Briefings

Theoretical Knowledge Instruction consist of single module of Technical training. It is integrated into the long briefing of the flight exercise and taken prior to the training flight. The content of the briefings is consistent with the Exercise 19 of the EASA Night rating syllabi and covers following topics:

• the medical or physiological aspects of night vision;
• the flight planning, taking into account the obstacles on the ground, night VMC minima, airspace;
• the use of lights for assembly, layout and inflation;
• the requirement for torch or lights to be carried, (pre-flight inspection, etc.);
• the use of the external and instrument lights;
• the night take-off procedure;
• the checklist procedures at night;
• the emergency procedures at night;
• the navigation principles at night; and
• the map marking for night use (highlighting built up or lit areas with thicker lines, etc.).

Privileges

The privileges of your FI(B) will be extended to be able to provide the training for Balloon Pilot Licence holders in night. The night privileges generally allow the BPL holder to exercise the privileges of BPL in VFR conditions at night. The Night Rating extension of Balloon Pilot Licence can be done outside of the flight school. Unlike the night rating on aeroplanes or helicopters, in case of balloons, the FI(B) decides himself only, whether the training is sufficient. The EASA simplifies the leisure trainings and gives more responsibility to the flight instructors.

The completion of the BPL night rating training is entered in the logbook and signed by the FI(B) who is responsible for the Balloon Night Rating training.