From: Jim Zehr (jimm1009@yahoo.com)
Date: Fri Dec 03 2004 - 16:02:03 PST
I have a UH-1H that is used for external load
operations and forrest fire operations. It is not in
Experimental but in Restricted Category.
It is registered as a civilian aircraft with a
N-number. The restricted category prevents the
aircraft from being used to carry passengers for hire
or for pleasure. It can be used and flown anywhere a
normal category aircraft can go except that it can not
leave the 48 lower states without LOTS and LOTS of red
tape paperwork. If it is in Hawaii or Alaska it has
the same restrictions of leaving the lower 48 too. It
is still considered and "Armament" by Uncle Sam which
restricts it from going internationally without the
"red stuff".
This particular aircraft has a STC'd engine that is
normally used in a Cobra and it really performs
compared to the -13 OEM engine.
Since Bell Helicopter did make the aircraft to a
military design whcih does not conform to FAA approved
data it is technically not an aircraft but simply
another piece of military hardware.
Bell does not have a type certificate to build them so
they must be certified by a civilan agency or
individual when purchased if they are to fly again
post-government ownership.
There are several names with each name having their
own type certificate data sheet assignment number.
They must comply with FAR 91 rules when certified as a
civy unit. They can be certified in Experimental but
the usage is even more restrictive.
The parts are relatively easy to come by but the
owner/operator should be cautious of their vendors.
It is always the owner's responsibility to ensure
proper maintenance releases for parts and all
maintenance performed. This being said you do have to
have an Airframe & Powerplant License (certificate) in
order to work on them just like you would on a Cessna
or Piper or Learjet.
Hope this helps.
JeeperJim
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