OPNAVINST_3710.7U_-_Natops_General_Flight_and_Operating_Instructions_01_Mar04.pdf

OPNAVINST 3710.7U

NATOPS GENERAL FLIGHT AND

OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS

OPNAV INSTRUCTION 3710.7U

THIS PUBLICATION SUPERSEDES OPNAV INSTRUCTION 3710.7T

DATED 1 MARCH 2004.

DEPARTMENT OF THE NAVY

OFFICE OF THE CHIEF OF NAVAL OPERATIONS.

NOVEMBER 23, 2009

RECORD OF CHANGES

Change No. and Date of Change

Date of Entry

Page Count Verified by (Signature)

DEPARTMENT OF THE NAVY

OFFICE: OF THE CHIEF OF NAVAL O~ER""TlONS

2000 NAVY PENTAGON

WASHINGTON, D.C. 20350-2000

IN Rt:~LY IIlEFElit TO

OPNAVINST 3710.7U

»,88 NOV 2 3 ax»

QPNAV INSTRUCTION 3710.7U

From: Chief of Naval Operations

Subj: NAVAL AIR TRAINING AND OPERATING PROCEDURES

STANDARDIZATION GENERAL FLIGHT AND OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS

Ref: See Appendix A

1. Purpose. To issue policy and procedural guidance applicable to a broad spectrum of users and complements individual Naval Air Training and Operating Procedures Standardization (NATOPS) manuals. This is a complete revision and should be reviewed in it entirety_

2. Cancellation. OPNAVINST 3710.7T.

3. Background. The NATOPS Program is a positive approach toward improving combat readiness and achieving a substantial reduction in the aircraft mishap rate. Standardization, based on professional knowledge and experience, provides the basis for development of sound operating procedures. The standardization program is not intended to stifle individual initiative, but rather to aid commanding officers in increasing their unit's combat potential without reducing command prestige or responsibility.

4. Reproduction. Duplication of this publication for other than military use, without specific authority of the Chief of Naval Operations (eNO) , is not authorized.

5. Records Management. Records created as a result of this instruction, regardless of media and format, shall be managed in accordance with Secretary of the Navy (SECNAV) Manual 5210.1.

6. Reports and Forms.

instruction are listed

Reports and forms in appendix L.

required by this

-/ ~"-".A::..----(

~;.L. HILMAN

__ Director, Air Warfare

NOV 23 am Distribution:

Electronic only, via Department of the Navy Issuances Web site http://doni.daps.dla.mil/

The following Interim Changes have been cancelled or previously incorporated into this manual.

INTERIM

CHANGE

NUMBER(S) REMARKS/PURPOSE

1 thru 33 Previously incorporated or cancelled.

The following Interim Changes have been incorporated into this Change/Revision.

INTERIM

CHANGE

NUMBER(S) REMARKS/PURPOSE

34 IFR Filing Criteria

35 Civilian Firefighting Coordinators

36 Chapter 5 — ACM Training Rules

37 Changes to Air Combat Maneuvering (ACM) Training Rules

38 Mandatory Briefing Items

Interim Changes Outstanding — To be maintained by the custodian of this manual.

INTERIM

CHANGE

NUMBER

ORIGINATOR/DATE

(orDATE/TIMEGROUP)

PAGES

AFFECTED REMARKS/PURPOSE

INTERIM CHANGE SUMMARY

i

NATOPS General Flight and Operating Instructions

CONTENTS

PAGE NO

CHAPTER 1 — INTRODUCTION

1.1 GENERAL .......................................................... 1-1

1.1.1 Purpose and Scope ................................................ 1-1

1.1.2 Change Procedures ................................................ 1-2

1.1.3 Change Symbols ................................................... 1-2

1.1.4 Waiver Requests .................................................. 1-2

1.1.5 How To Obtain Copies ............................................. 1-2

1.2 OTHER GOVERNING SOURCES OF INFORMATION ........................... 1-3

1.2.1 NATOPS Manuals ................................................... 1-3

1.2.2 Local Flying Rules and Instructions .............................. 1-3

1.2.3 Federal Aviation Regulations (FAR) ............................... 1-4

1.2.4 DOD Flight Information Publications (FLIPs) (NOTAL) and

Notices to Airmen (NOTAMs) (NOTAL) ............................... 1-5

1.2.5 FAA Order 7110.65 (Air Traffic Control) (NOTAL) .................. 1-5

1.2.6 NATOPS Air Traffic Control Manual (NAVAIR 00-80T-114) ............ 1-5

1.2.7 DoD Detail Specification for NATOPS Program Technical

Publications and Products; Style, Format, and Common Technical Content, MIL DTL 85025B(AS) ............................ 1-5

1.2.8 Other Instructions ............................................... 1-5

1.3 EXPLANATION OF TERMS ............................................. 1-5

1.4 WARNINGS, CAUTIONS, AND NOTES .................................... 1-6

1.5 WORDING .......................................................... 1-6

CHAPTER 2 — NAVAL AIR TRAINING AND OPERATING PROCEDURES STANDARDIZATION

PROGRAM

2.1 PURPOSE .......................................................... 2-1

2.2 NATOPS PROGRAM ORGANIZATION ...................................... 2-1

2.2.1 NATOPS Program Assignments ....................................... 2-2

2.2.2 Responsibilities ................................................. 2-4

2.2.3 General Administrative Requirements .............................. 2-7

2.3 NATOPS PRODUCTS AND PUBLICATIONS ................................. 2-8

2.3.1 Administrative NATOPS Products and Tools ......................... 2-8

2.3.2 NATOPS Manuals and Associated Products ........................... 2-9

2.3.3 Categories of NATOPS Products ................................... 2-10

2.3.4 Changes to NATOPS Products ...................................... 2-11

2.4 CREATING, UPDATING AND CANCELLING NATOPS PUBLICATIONS ........... 2-13

2.4.1 Creating a New NATOPS ........................................... 2-13

2.4.2 Updating an Existing NATOPS ..................................... 2-14

2.4.3 Cancelling A NATOPS ............................................. 2-15

2.5 CHANGE RECOMMENDATIONS .......................................... 2-15

2.5.1 Types of NATOPS Change Recommendations .......................... 2-15

2.5.2 Submission of NATOPS Change Recommendations ..................... 2-15 ii

2.5.3 Routine Change Recommendations .................................. 2-16

2.5.4 Interim Change Recommendations .................................. 2-16

2.5.5 Preparation and Distribution of Interim Changes ................. 2-20

2.6 NATOPS REVIEW CONFERENCE PROCEDURES ............................. 2-22

2.6.1 General ......................................................... 2-22

2.6.2 Responsibility .................................................. 2-22

2.6.3 Contractor Support of NATOPS Review Conferences ................. 2-22

2.6.4 Convening Decision .............................................. 2-22

2.6.5 Scheduling ...................................................... 2-23

2.6.6 Conference Location ............................................. 2-23

2.6.7 Convening Announcement .......................................... 2-23

2.6.8 Conference Agenda ............................................... 2-25

2.6.9 Pre-Conferences ................................................. 2-25

2.6.10 Conduct of NATOPS Review Conferences ............................ 2-25

2.6.11 Conference Report ............................................... 2-27

2.6.12 Publication Production Package .................................. 2-33

2.6.13 Implementation of Approved Agenda Items ......................... 2-34

2.6.14 Prepublication Reviews .......................................... 2-34

2.7 NATOPS EVALUATION PROCEDURES .................................... 2-34

2.7.1 General ......................................................... 2-34

2.7.2 Individual NATOPS Evaluations ................................... 2-35

2.7.3 Unit NATOPS Evaluation .......................................... 2-39

CHAPTER 3 — POLICY GUIDANCE

3.1 POLICY CONCERNING USE OF AIRCRAFT ................................ 3-1

3.1.1 Special Policies ................................................. 3-1

3.1.2 Nonessential Flights ............................................. 3-3

3.1.3 Personnel Authorized To Pilot Naval Aircraft ..................... 3-3

3.1.4 Personnel Authorized To Taxi Naval Aircraft ...................... 3-5

3.1.5 Personnel Authorized To Perform Crew Duties in Naval

Aircraft ......................................................... 3-5

3.1.6 Personnel Authorized as Project Specialists ...................... 3-6

3.2 POLICY CONCERNING USE OF SIMULATORS .............................. 3-6

3.3 ORIENTATION FLIGHTS .............................................. 3-6

3.3.1 Purpose .......................................................... 3-7

3.3.2 Approval Authority ............................................... 3-7

3.3.3 Categories of Eligible Participants for Orientation Flight ....... 3-8

3.3.4 Orientation Flight Prerequisites ................................. 3-9

3.3.5 Flight Limitations .............................................. 3-10

3.4 EMBARKATION OF PASSENGERS ....................................... 3-11

3.5 FLIGHT DEMONSTRATIONS AND STATIC EXHIBITS ....................... 3-12

3.5.1 Naval Aircraft Participation .................................... 3-12

3.5.2 Approval Authority .............................................. 3-13

3.5.3 Regulations ..................................................... 3-13

3.5.4 Exception ....................................................... 3-14

3.5.5 NATO Flight Demonstrations ...................................... 3-14

3.5.6 NATO Live Weapons Demonstrations ................................ 3-14

3.6 EMPLOYMENT OF NAVAL AVIATORS BY CIVILIAN CONTRACTORS ............ 3-14

3.7 COMMAND ......................................................... 3-14

3.7.1 Pilot in Command ................................................ 3-15

3.7.2 Formation Leader ................................................ 3-16

3.7.3 Mission Commander ............................................... 3-16 iii

3.7.4 Instructors ..................................................... 3-16

3.8 CREW RESOURCE MANAGEMENT ........................................ 3-16

3.8.1 Critical Behavioral Skills ...................................... 3-17

3.8.2 Effective CRM Training .......................................... 3-18

3.9 OPERATIONAL-RISK MANAGEMENT ..................................... 3-18

3.9.1 ORM Process Description ......................................... 3-18

3.9.2 Enhancing ORM ................................................... 3-19

3.10 FUNCTIONAL CHECKFLIGHTS ......................................... 3-19

3.10.1 Crew Composition ................................................ 3-19

3.10.2 Weather Criteria ................................................ 3-19

3.11 REPORTING AND RECORDING OF DEVIATIONS AND VIOLATIONS OF

FLYING REGULATIONS AND MISHAP INFORMATION ....................... 3-20

3.11.1 Reports of Investigations of Violations of Flying

Regulations ..................................................... 3-20

3.11.2 FAA Reports and Cooperation ..................................... 3-22

3.11.3 Applicability of Flying Regulations Other Than Naval ............ 3-22

3.11.4 Alleged Offshore Air Defense Identification Zone Violations ..... 3-22

3.11.5 Flight Personnel Training/Qualification Jacket

Entry/Aviators Flight Log Book Entry ............................ 3-22

3.11.6 Incident Reports ................................................ 3-23

3.12 CROSS-COUNTRY PLANNING .......................................... 3-23

3.12.1 Cross-Country Flight ............................................ 3-23

3.12.2 Risk Assessment ................................................. 3-24

3.12.3 Implementation .................................................. 3-24

3.13 TERMINAL INSTRUMENT PROCEDURES .................................. 3-24

3.13.1 General ......................................................... 3-24

3.13.2 U.S. Civil Airports ............................................. 3-25

3.13.3 Other Than U.S. Airports ........................................ 3-25

3.13.4 Conformance to TERPs ............................................ 3-26

3.13.5 Annual Revalidation ............................................. 3-26

3.14 MILITARY FLIGHT OPERATIONS QUALITY ASSURANCE (MFOQA) ............ 3-26

3.14.1 Use of MFOQA Data ............................................... 3-26

3.15 AVIATION SAFETY AWARENESS PROGRAM (ASAP) ........................ 3-27

3.15.1 ASAP Data Requirements .......................................... 3-27

3.16 UNMANNED AIRCRAFT SYSTEM(S) (UAS) ............................... 3-27

CHAPTER 4 — FLIGHT AUTHORIZATION, PLANNING AND APPROVAL

4.1 FLIGHT AUTHORIZATION ............................................. 4-1

4.1.1 Authority ........................................................ 4-1

4.1.2 Documentation .................................................... 4-1

4.1.3 Flightcrew Requirements .......................................... 4-1

4.2 MINIMUM FLIGHTCREW REQUIREMENTS .................................. 4-2

4.2.1 Aircraft Commander Requirement ................................... 4-2

4.2.2 Insufficient NATOPS Guidance ..................................... 4-2

4.2.3 Helicopters Not Requiring a Copilot .............................. 4-2

4.2.4 Use of Lookouts .................................................. 4-2

4.2.5 Rescue Helicopters Operating Over Water .......................... 4-3

4.3 FLIGHT PLANNING .................................................. 4-3

4.3.1 Preflight Planning ............................................... 4-3 iv

4.4 AUTHORIZED AIRFIELDS ............................................. 4-3

4.4.1 Authorized Airfields for Stop-and-Go, Refueling and RON .......... 4-3

4.4.2 Authorized Airfields and Landing Areas For Training .............. 4-4

4.4.3 Helicopter, Tiltrotor, and VSTOL/STOL Landing Areas .............. 4-4

4.4.4 Closed Airfields ................................................. 4-5

4.5 FLIGHT PLANNING .................................................. 4-5

4.5.1 General .......................................................... 4-5

4.5.2 Forwarding Flight Plans to ARTCC/Flight Service Station

(FSS) ............................................................ 4-5

4.5.3 No Communication Link ............................................ 4-5

4.5.4 Direct User Access Terminal Service (DUAT) ....................... 4-5

4.5.5 Flight Plan Forms ................................................ 4-6

4.5.6 Shore-to-Ship and Ship-to-Shore Operations ....................... 4-7

4.5.7 Stopover Flights Within the Contiguous United States ............. 4-7

4.6 SUBMISSION OF THE FLIGHT PLAN .................................... 4-8

4.6.1 Pilot in Command/Formation Leader ................................ 4-8

4.6.2 Daily Flight Schedule ............................................ 4-9

4.6.3 Flight Plan Approval ............................................. 4-9

4.7 FLIGHT PLAN MODIFICATION ......................................... 4-9

4.8 OTHER PREFLIGHT REQUIREMENTS ..................................... 4-9

4.8.1 Call Sign Requirements ........................................... 4-9

4.8.2 Manifest Requirements ............................................ 4-9

4.8.3 Flight Route Weather Briefing ................................... 4-10

4.8.4 Weather Criteria for Filing ..................................... 4-12

4.8.5 Minimum Fuel Requirements ....................................... 4-14

4.8.6 Weight and Balance Control ...................................... 4-15

4.9 CLOSING OF FLIGHT PLAN .......................................... 4-16

4.9.1 Military Installations .......................................... 4-16

4.9.2 Nonmilitary Installations ....................................... 4-16

CHAPTER 5 — FLIGHT RULES

5.1 GENERAL FLIGHT RULES ............................................. 5-1

5.1.1 Aircraft Lighting ................................................ 5-1

5.1.2 Right-of-Way Between Single and Formations of Aircraft ........... 5-2

5.1.3 Unusual Maneuvers Within Class B, C, or D Airspace ............... 5-2

5.1.4 Aircraft Speed ................................................... 5-3

5.1.5 Special Use Airspace ............................................. 5-4

5.1.6 Military Training Routes (MTRs) .................................. 5-5

5.1.7 Flight Over the High Seas ........................................ 5-8

5.1.8 Supersonic Flight Operations ..................................... 5-9

5.1.9 Aerobatic Flight ................................................. 5-9

5.1.10 Simulated Air Combat Maneuvering (ACM) Training Rules ........... 5-10

5.1.11 Simulated Instrument Flight ..................................... 5-22

5.1.12 Formation Flying ................................................ 5-23

5.2 VISUAL FLIGHT RULES PROCEDURES .................................. 5-25

5.2.1 Compliance With Directives ...................................... 5-25

5.2.2 Judgment ........................................................ 5-25

5.2.3 See and Avoid ................................................... 5-26

5.2.4 Weather Minimums ................................................ 5-26

5.2.5 Weather Conditions Precluding VFR Flight ........................ 5-28

5.2.6 Additional Requirements ......................................... 5-28 v

5.3 INSTRUMENT FLIGHT RULES AND POSITIVE CONTROL PROCEDURES ......... 5-28

5.3.1 General Requirements ............................................ 5-28

5.3.2 Aircraft Equipment Requirements ................................. 5-30

5.3.3 RNAV/GPS Navigation ............................................. 5-33

5.3.4 Instrument Departures ........................................... 5-34

5.3.5 Instrument Approaches and Landing Minimums ...................... 5-35

5.4 HELICOPTER/TILTROTOR OPERATIONS ................................. 5-37

5.4.1 Helicopter/Tiltrotor Operations in Class B, C, or D

Airspace ........................................................ 5-37

5.4.2 Helicopter/Tiltrotor Terrain Flight Operations .................. 5-38

5.4.3 Helicopter/Tiltrotor Night Hover Operation Over Water ........... 5-38

5.4.4 Helicopter Operations ........................................... 5-38

5.5 REDUCING FLIGHT-RELATED DISTURBANCES ............................ 5-38

5.5.1 Annoyance to Civilians and Endangering Private Property ......... 5-38

5.5.2 Disturbance of Wildlife ......................................... 5-39

5.5.3 Zooming of Vessels .............................................. 5-40

5.5.4 Avoidance of Commercial Carriers and Aircraft of Civil

Registry ........................................................ 5-40

5.5.5 Avoidance of Installations Important to Defense ................. 5-40

5.5.6 Jettisoning Fuel ................................................ 5-41

5.5.7 Air-to-Air Missile Training Flights ............................. 5-41

5.5.8 Expenditure of Airborne Stores Through Extensive Cloud

Cover ........................................................... 5-41

5.6 FLAMEOUT APPROACHES ............................................. 5-42

5.6.1 Actual Flameout Approaches ...................................... 5-42

5.6.2 Simulated Flameout Approaches ................................... 5-42

5.7 FLIGHT OPERATIONS WITH NIGHT VISION DEVICES ..................... 5-42

5.7.1 General ......................................................... 5-42

5.7.2 Operating Limitations ........................................... 5-42

5.8 OPERATION OF UNMANNED AIRCRAFT SYSTEMS (UASS) ................... 5-43

5.8.1 General Precautions ............................................. 5-43

5.8.2 Specific Operating Limitations .................................. 5-43

5.8.3 Displays and Demonstrations ..................................... 5-44

5.8.4 Overall Use and Control ......................................... 5-44

CHAPTER 6 — AIR TRAFFIC CONTROL

6.1 APPLICABILITY .................................................... 6-1

6.2 AIR TRAFFIC CONTROL PROCEDURES ................................... 6-1

6.2.1 Authorized Personnel ............................................. 6-1

6.2.2 Control Tower .................................................... 6-1

6.2.3 Control of Formation Flights ..................................... 6-1

6.2.4 Taxi Instructions ................................................ 6-1

6.2.5 Departure Instructions ........................................... 6-2

6.2.6 Minimum Fuel ..................................................... 6-3

6.2.7 Handling of VIP Aircraft ......................................... 6-3

6.2.8 Approach Instructions ............................................ 6-3

6.3 LANDING INSTRUCTIONS ............................................. 6-3

6.3.1 Reduced Same Runway Separation ................................... 6-4

6.3.2 Procedure for Checking Wheels Down and Locked .................... 6-4

6.3.3 Runway Braking Action Advisory/Condition Readings ................ 6-5 vi

6.4 LETTERS OF AGREEMENT ............................................. 6-5

6.5 VITAL MILITARY OPERATIONS ........................................ 6-5

6.5.1 Priority ......................................................... 6-5

6.5.2 Letters of Agreement ............................................. 6-5

6.6 AIRFIELD VEHICLE OPERATIONS ...................................... 6-6

6.6.1 Airfield Vehicle Operators Indoctrination Course (AVOIC) ......... 6-6

CHAPTER 7 — SAFETY

7.1 FLIGHT PRECAUTION ................................................ 7-1

7.1.1 General Precautions .............................................. 7-1

7.1.2 Starting, Turning, and Taxiing ................................... 7-3

7.1.3 Takeoff .......................................................... 7-4

7.1.4 Takeoff and Landing Checklists ................................... 7-5

7.1.5 Power Failure on Multiengine Aircraft ............................ 7-5

7.1.6 Distress and Emergency ........................................... 7-6

7.1.7 Ditching and Bailout ............................................. 7-6

7.1.8 Command and Control Communication ................................ 7-7

7.1.9 Tobacco Products in Aircraft ..................................... 7-7

7.2 SAFETY BELTS AND SHOULDER HARNESSES .............................. 7-7

7.3 UNUSUAL PERFORMANCE OF AIRCRAFT .................................. 7-8

CHAPTER 8 — AEROMEDICAL AND SURVIVAL

8.1 GENERAL .......................................................... 8-1

8.2 AVIATION LIFE SUPPORT SYSTEMS .................................... 8-1

8.2.1 Aircrew Personal Protective Equipment Requirements ............... 8-1

8.2.2 Liferafts ........................................................ 8-8

8.2.3 Parachutes ....................................................... 8-8

8.2.4 Oxygen/Cabin Pressurization ...................................... 8-9

8.2.5 Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear, Defense

(CBRND) Protective Equipment .................................... 8-13

8.3 HUMAN PERFORMANCE AND AEROMEDICAL QUALIFICATIONS FOR FLIGHT

AND FLIGHT SUPPORT .............................................. 8-14

8.3.1 General ......................................................... 8-14

8.3.2 Factors Affecting Aircrew Performance ........................... 8-15

8.3.3 Performance Maintenance During Continuous and Sustained

Operations ...................................................... 8-24

8.4 NAVAL AVIATION SURVIVAL TRAINING PROGRAM ........................ 8-25

8.4.1 Training Requirements ........................................... 8-25

8.4.2 Records ......................................................... 8-29

8.4.3 Physical and Training Prerequisites for Participation in

NASTP Training .................................................. 8-29

8.4.4 Training Waivers/Qualification Extensions ....................... 8-31

8.4.5 Coordination .................................................... 8-31

8.4.6 Approved Curricula .............................................. 8-32

8.4.7 Grading ......................................................... 8-37

8.4.8 Environmental Exposure .......................................... 8-39

8.5 FLEET AIR INTRODUCTION/LIAISON OF SURVIVAL AIRCREW FLIGHT

EQUIPMENT (FAILSAFE) PROGRAM .................................... 8-39

8.6 NVD TRAINING PROGRAM ............................................ 8-39

vii

8.7 SEARCH AND RESCUE PILOT/RESCUE SWIMMER TRAINING ................. 8-40

8.7.1 Definitions ..................................................... 8-40

8.7.2 Training Requirements ........................................... 8-41

8.7.3 Prerequisites ................................................... 8-41

8.8 AVIATION PHYSICAL EXAMINATIONS AND QUALIFICATIONS ............... 8-41

8.8.1 General Requirements ............................................ 8-41

8.8.2 Required Evaluations ............................................ 8-42

8.8.3 Scope of Examinations ........................................... 8-43

8.8.4 Disposition of Aircrew Found Not Physically Qualified (NPQ) ..... 8-44

8.8.5 8Medical Service Groups ......................................... 8-46

8.8.6 Medical Requirements for Civilians Operating Naval Aircraft ..... 8-47

CHAPTER 9 — MISCELLANEOUS

9.1 PARACHUTE JUMPS .................................................. 9-1

9.1.1 General .......................................................... 9-1

9.1.2 Delayed Release Jumps ............................................ 9-1

9.1.3 Jump Precautions ................................................. 9-1

9.1.4 Federal Aviation Regulations ..................................... 9-1

9.1.5 Demonstrations ................................................... 9-1

9.2 SECURITY OF AIRCRAFT AWAY FROM BASE .............................. 9-1

9.2.1 General .......................................................... 9-1

9.2.2 Aircraft Mishap .................................................. 9-2

9.3 AIRCRAFT FUEL PURCHASE ........................................... 9-2

9.4 AIRCRAFT NOISE ABATEMENT ......................................... 9-2

9.5 CLAIMS FOR PERSONAL PROPERTY IN MARITIME DISASTERS OF

AIRCRAFT ......................................................... 9-2

9.6 U.S. CUSTOMS, HEALTH, IMMIGRATION, AND AGRICULTURAL

CLEARANCE ........................................................ 9-3

9.6.1 Naval Aircraft ................................................... 9-3

9.6.2 Military Aircraft Arriving in the Continental U.S. From

Overseas ......................................................... 9-3

9.6.3 Discharging of Passengers/Cargo .................................. 9-3

9.6.4 Foreign Military Aircraft ........................................ 9-3

9.6.5 Medical or Economic Insect Pests ................................. 9-3

9.7 DISPERSAL OF PESTICIDES .......................................... 9-3

9.8 AIRCRAFT TAIL LETTERS AND SIDE NUMBERS ........................... 9-4

CHAPTER 10 — FLIGHT RECORDS, REPORTS AND FORMS

10.1 NAVAL FLIGHT RECORD SUBSYSTEM ................................... 10-1

10.2 AIRCRAFT INSPECTION AND ACCEPTANCE (AIA) RECORD, OPNAV

4790/141 ........................................................ 10-1

10.2.1 Pilot in Command ................................................ 10-1

10.2.2 Limitations/Remarks” Section .................................... 10-1

10.3 NAVAL AIRCRAFT FLIGHT RECORD, OPNAV 3710/4 ...................... 10-1

10.3.1 Documentation of the Naval Aircraft Flight Record ............... 10-2

10.3.2 Aircraft Data Section ........................................... 10-8

10.3.3 Aircrew Data Section ........................................... 10-11

10.3.4 Logistics Data Section ......................................... 10-14

10.3.5 Weapons Proficiency Data Section ............................... 10-16

10.3.6 Personnel Data ................................................. 10-18 viii

10.3.7 Personnel Exchange Program/DCMC/Any Aeronautically

Designated Personnel Assigned to an Activity Where NDCSC Support Is Not Available ....................................... 10-20

10.3.8 Civilian Crewmembers Flying Naval Aircraft (Active) ............ 10-20

10.3.9 Fleet Readiness Centers ........................................ 10-20

10.4 MASTER FLIGHT FILES ............................................ 10-20

10.4.1 Specific Requirements .......................................... 10-21

10.4.2 Procedures for Maintaining Master Flight Files ................. 10-21

10.4.3 Master Flight File Certification ............................... 10-22

10.4.4 Retention of Master Flight Files ............................... 10-23

10.5 AVIATORS FLIGHT LOG BOOK, OPNAV 3760/31 ........................ 10-23

10.5.1 General Policies ............................................... 10-23

10.5.2 Entries ........................................................ 10-24

10.6 NATOPS FLIGHT PERSONNEL TRAINING/QUALIFICATION JACKET,

OPNAV 3760/32 .................................................. 10-27

10.7 MONTHLY INDIVIDUAL FLIGHT ACTIVITY REPORT (NAVFLIRS-3) ......... 10-27

10.8 INDIVIDUAL FLIGHT ACTIVITY REPORTING SYSTEM (IFARS) ............ 10-27

10.8.1 Background ..................................................... 10-27

10.9 RECORDS MANAGEMENT OF AVIATION RECORDS ......................... 10-28

CHAPTER 11 — GENERAL INSTRUCTIONS ON DUTY INVOLVING FLYING AND ANNUAL

FLIGHT PERFORMANCE REQUIREMENTS

11.1 SCOPE, PURPOSE, AND APPLICABILITY ............................... 11-1

11.1.1 General Policies ................................................ 11-1

11.2 OPERATIONAL FLYING .............................................. 11-2

11.2.1 Aeromedical Officer Flying Policy ............................... 11-3

11.2.2 Aviation Operations Officer (AVOPS) ............................. 11-4

11.2.3 Additional Ratings .............................................. 11-4

11.2.4 Minimum Flying Hours ............................................ 11-4

11.2.5 Prorating Minimums .............................................. 11-6

11.2.6 Aviation Qualification/Currency Requirements Summary ............ 11-6

11.2.7 Flying Activity Denied .......................................... 11-6

11.2.8 Policy Governing Assignment of Inactive Reserve Personnel ...... 11-11

11.3 AVIATION CAREER INCENTIVE PAY .................................. 11-11

11.3.1 Definitions .................................................... 11-11

11.3.2 Policy and Procedures .......................................... 11-11

11.3.3 Aviation Career Incentive Pay for Rated Members (Rated

Members Include Aeronautically Designated Naval Aviators and Naval Flight Officers) ..................................... 11-12

11.4 ENLISTED CREWMEMBERS ........................................... 11-14

11.4.1 Navy Crewmembers ............................................... 11-14

11.4.2 Marine Corps Crewmembers ....................................... 11-15

11.4.3 Hazardous Duty Incentive Pay for Enlisted

Member/Aeronautically Designated Enlisted and Nondesignated Officers ....................................................... 11-16

11.5 WAIVERS OF MINIMUM FLYING REQUIREMENTS ......................... 11-16

11.5.1 Authority to Waive ............................................. 11-16

11.5.2 Action Required ................................................ 11-16

11.5.3 Assignment of Other Than Permanently Designated

Aeronautical Personnel ......................................... 11-18 ix

11.6 POLICY GOVERNING LOGGING, REPORTING, AND USE OF SIMULATOR

TIME ........................................................... 11-19

11.6.1 Policy Governing Flying Time Substitution ...................... 11-19

11.6.2 Policy Governing NATOPS Evaluation Flight Substitution ......... 11-20

11.7 INDIVIDUAL AND COMMAND RESPONSIBILITIES ........................ 11-20

11.7.1 Supervision .................................................... 11-20

11.7.2 Responsibilities ............................................... 11-20

11.8 REVOCATION OF ORDERS TO DUTY INVOLVING FLYING .................. 11-20

CHAPTER 12 — CLASSIFICATION AND QUALIFICATION OF FLIGHT PERSONNEL

12.1 SCOPE ........................................................... 12-1

12.2 MULTIPILOTED FIXED-WING AIRCRAFT (PILOT) ........................ 12-1

12.2.1 Pilot Classification ............................................ 12-1

12.2.2 Specific Requirements for Qualification ......................... 12-1

12.2.3 General Requirements for Qualification .......................... 12-4

12.3 MULTIPILOTED ROTARY-WING AIRCRAFT (PILOT) ....................... 12-4

12.3.1 Pilot Classification ............................................ 12-4

12.3.2 Specific Requirements for Qualification ......................... 12-4

12.3.3 General Requirements for Qualification .......................... 12-6

12.4 MULTIPILOTED TILTROTOR AIRCRAFT (PILOT) ......................... 12-7

12.4.1 Pilot Classification ............................................ 12-7

12.4.2 Specific Requirements for Qualifications ........................ 12-7

12.4.3 Initial Qualification ........................................... 12-9

12.4.4 Requalification ................................................. 12-9

12.4.5 Time Limits .................................................... 12-10

12.5 NAVAL FLIGHT OFFICERS .......................................... 12-10

12.5.1 Naval Flight Officer Classification ............................ 12-10

12.5.2 Specific Requirements for Qualification ........................ 12-11

12.5.3 General Requirements for Qualification ......................... 12-12

12.6 MARINE AERIAL NAVIGATION OFFICER ............................... 12-12

12.7 QUALIFICATIONS OF UAS FLIGHTCREW ............................... 12-13

12.8 TRAINING OF ENLISTED FLIGHT PERSONNEL .......................... 12-13

12.8.1 General ........................................................ 12-13

12.8.2 Flight Records ................................................. 12-13

12.8.3 Auditing of Enlisted Flight Record ............................. 12-13

12.8.4 Allocation of Temporary Flight Orders .......................... 12-13

12.9 CLASSIFICATION AND QUALIFICATION OF NAVAL AIRCREWMAN ........... 12-14

12.9.1 Naval Aircrewman Classification ................................ 12-14

12.9.2 General Requirements for Positional Qualification as a

Naval Aircrewman ............................................... 12-14

12.9.3 Proficiency .................................................... 12-14

12.9.4 Maximum Time Limit for Positional Qualification as Naval

Aircrewman ..................................................... 12-14

12.9.5 Time of Requalification for Naval Aircrewman ................... 12-14

12.9.6 Qualification Waivers for Naval Aircrewmen ..................... 12-15

12.10 QUALIFYING AUTHORITIES ......................................... 12-15

12.10.1 Aeronautical Organizations ..................................... 12-15

12.10.2 Non-aeronautical Organizations ................................. 12-15

12.10.3 Fleet Replacement Squadrons .................................... 12-15

12.10.4 Guidance for Qualifying Authorities ............................ 12-15 x

12.11 QUALIFICATION TO TRANSITION INTO JET, HELICOPTER, OR

TILTROTOR AIRCRAFT ............................................. 12-16

12.11.1 Minimum Training Syllabus Requirements ......................... 12-16

12.11.2 Action ......................................................... 12-17

12.11.3 Chief of Naval Air Training Responsibility ..................... 12-18

12.12 REPORTS ........................................................ 12-18

12.12.1 Navy Flight Personnel .......................................... 12-18

12.12.2 Marine Corps Flight Personnel .................................. 12-18

12.12.3 Revocation of Qualifications ................................... 12-18

CHAPTER 13 — INSTRUMENT RATINGS AND QUALIFICATIONS

13.1 INSTRUMENT RATINGS AND QUALIFICATIONS ........................... 13-1

13.1.1 Pilots/Naval Flight Officers Required To Maintain

Instrument Ratings/Qualifications ............................... 13-1

13.1.2 Renewal/Expiration of Instrument Ratings and Qualifications ..... 13-1

13.1.3 Composition and Functions of Instrument Flight Boards ........... 13-4

13.2 REQUIREMENT FOR INSTRUMENT RATINGS .............................. 13-4

13.2.1 Standard Rating ................................................. 13-4

13.2.2 Special Rating .................................................. 13-5

13.2.3 Failure To Meet Requirements .................................... 13-5

13.3 INSTRUMENT RATING FORMS ......................................... 13-6

13.4 AIRCRAFT CONSIDERATIONS ......................................... 13-6

13.5 GPS NAVIGATION TRAINING ......................................... 13-6

13.5.1 General ......................................................... 13-6

13.5.2 Ground Instruction .............................................. 13-6

13.5.3 GPS Navigation Flight Training .................................. 13-8

APPENDIX A — REFERENCES AND OTHER SELECTED AVIATION ISSUANCES

A.1 SELECTED AVIATION DIRECTIVES ..................................... A-1

APPENDIX B — NATOPS FLIGHT PERSONNEL TRAINING/QUALIFICATION JACKET

B.1 INTRODUCTION ..................................................... B-1

B.1.1 Purpose .......................................................... B-1 B.1.2 Scope ............................................................ B-1 B.1.3 Responsibility ................................................... B-1 B.1.4 Security ......................................................... B-1 B.1.5 Disposition ...................................................... B-3 B.1.6 Review ........................................................... B-3 B.1.7 Design ........................................................... B-3 B.1.8 Maintenance ...................................................... B-3 B.1.9 Forms ............................................................ B-3

B.2 ASSEMHBLY AND MAINTENANCE ........................................ B-3

B.2.1 General .......................................................... B-3 B.2.2 Qualifications and Achievements .................................. B-4 B.2.3 Training ......................................................... B-4 B.2.4 Flight Records ................................................... B-5 B.2.5 Procurement ...................................................... B-5

APPENDIX C — AIRCRAFT VISUAL IDENTIFICATION SYSTEM

C.1 GENERAL .......................................................... C-1

C.1.1 Unit Identification .............................................. C-1 xi

C.1.2 Aircraft Side Numbers ............................................ C-2 C.1.3 Marking of Aircraft .............................................. C-2

APPENDIX D — TOTAL MISSION REQUIREMENT (TMR) CODES

D.1 PURPOSE .......................................................... D-1

D.2 NAVAL AIRCRAFT/SIMULATOR FLIGHT CLASSIFICATION SYSTEM ............ D-1

D.2.1 Primary Source ................................................... D-1 D.2.2 Deviation ........................................................ D-1

D.3 APPLICABILITY OF THE TOTAL MISSION REQUIREMENT CODES ............. D-1

D.4 CLASSIFICATION OF TOTAL MISSION REQUIREMENT CODES ................ D-1

D.4.1 Purpose of Flight ................................................ D-1

D.5 GENERAL/SPECIFIC PURPOSE OF FLIGHT CODE COMBINATIONS A

THROUGH I (TRAINING FLIGHTS) ..................................... D-2

D.5.1 General Purpose Codes ............................................ D-2 D.5.2 Specific Purpose Codes ........................................... D-3

D.6 GENERAL/SPECIFIC PURPOSE OF FLIGHT CODE COMBINATIONS J

THROUGH R (SERVICE FLIGHTS) ...................................... D-4

D.6.1 SPCs To Be Used With GPCs J and K for Service Flights ............ D-4 D.6.2 GPCs L, M, N, and O for Service Flights .......................... D-5 D.6.3 SPCs Used With GPC P ............................................. D-6 D.6.4 SPCs Used With GPC Q ............................................. D-7 D.6.5 SPCs Used With GPC R ............................................. D-7

D.7 GENERAL/SPECIFIC PURPOSE OF FLIGHT CODE COMBINATIONS S

THROUGH Z (COMBAT FLIGHTS) ....................................... D-8

D.8 CURRENTLY ASSIGNED TOTAL MISSION REQUIREMENT CODES .............. D-10

APPENDIX E — NAVAL AVIATION SURVIVAL TRAINING PROGRAM (NASP) REQUIREMENTS

E.1 PURPOSE .......................................................... E-1

E.2 NASTP TRAINING STATUS (DOES NOT INCLUDE NON-AIRCRAFT

SPECIFIC NASTP TRAINING COURSES LISTED IN FIGURE E-2) ............ E-1

E.3 NASTP TRAINING REQUIREMENTS ...................................... E-2

E.4 NASTP CURRICULA OUTLINE .......................................... E-4

E.5 AIRCRAFT CLASS ................................................... E-6

E.6 APPROVED NASTP TRAINING SITES (AVIATION SURVIVAL TRAINING

CENTERS (ASTC)) .................................................. E-6

E.7 NASTP ADJUNCTIVE TRAINING TOPIC GUIDE ............................ E-7

E.8 NASTP TRAINING QUALIFICATION LETTER FOR AIRCRAFT SPECIFIC

TRAINING ......................................................... E-9

APPENDIX F — EXCEPTION, SPECIAL QUALIFICATION, SERVICE, LANDING AND

APPROACHES CODE

F.1 PURPOSE .......................................................... F-1

F.2 EXCEPTION CODES .................................................. F-1

F.3 SPECIAL QUALIFICATION CODES ...................................... F-1

F.4 SERVICE CODES .................................................... F-3

xii

F.5 LANDING CODES .................................................... F-4

F.6 APPROACH CODES ................................................... F-4

APPENDIX G — TIME ZONE, SYSTEM STATUS, PASSENGER PRIORITY, AND OPPORTUNE

CARGO CODES

G.1 PURPOSE .......................................................... G-1

G.2 TIME ZONE CODES .................................................. G-1

G.3 SYSTEM STATUS CODES .............................................. G-2

G.4 PASSENGER PRIORITY CODES ......................................... G-2

G.5 OPPORTUNE CARGO CODES ............................................ G-2

APPENDIX H — WEAPONS PROFICIENCY CODES

H.1 PURPOSE .......................................................... H-1

H.2 ORDNANCE CODES ................................................... H-1

H.3 DELIVERY DATA CODES .............................................. H-4

H.3.1 System/Automatic Deliveries ...................................... H-4 H.3.2 Manual Deliveries ................................................ H-5

H.4 MISCELLANEOUS DATA RECORD CODES .................................. H-6

APPENDIX I — SUPPORT CODES

I.1 PURPOSE .......................................................... I-1

APPENDIX J — USMC PERSONAL DATA SYLLABUS AND STATUS CODES

J.1 PURPOSE .......................................................... J-1

J.2 USMC ASSIGNED SYLLABUS (TEC) CODES ............................... J-1

J.3 USMC SYLLABUS STATUS (SSC) CODES ................................. J-2

J.4 USMC AIRCREW STATUS (ASC) CODES .................................. J-2

APPENDIX K — COMNAVAIRFOR APPROVED IFAR SIMULATORS

K.1 PURPOSE .......................................................... K-1

K.2 NAVY SIMULATORS (PILOT AND NFO SPECIAL CREW TIME) ................ K-1

K.3 NAVY SIMULATORS (NFO SPECIAL CREW TIME ONLY) ..................... K-3

K.4 NONNAVY SIMULATORS (PILOT AND SPECIAL CREW TIME) ................. K-4

APPENDIX L — LIST OF FORMS AND REPORTS

L.1 PURPOSE .......................................................... L-1

L.2 FORMS ............................................................ L-1

L.3 REPORTS .......................................................... L-2

APPENDIX M — STANDARDIZED ACM TRAINING RULES BRIEFING GUIDE

M.1 PURPOSE .......................................................... M-1

M.2 ACM TRAINING RULES ............................................... M-1

M.2.1 Administrative ................................................... M-1 xiii

APPENDIX N — GLOSSARY

APPENDIX O — LIST OF ABBREVIATIONS/ACRONYMS

INDEX ..............................................................Index-1

LIST OF EFFECTIVE PAGES

xiv

LIST OF ILLUSTRATIONS

Page no

CHAPTER 1 — INTRODUCTION

Figure 1-1 OPNAVINST 3710.7 Areas of Responsibility .................... 1-2

CHAPTER 2 — NAVAL AIR TRAINING AND OPERATING PROCEDURES STANDARDIZATION

PROGRAM

Figure 2-1 NATOPS Program Organization ................................. 2-1

Figure 2-2 Waiver Delegation Authority ................................. 2-8

Figure 2-3 Interim Change Recommendation Approval Process ............. 2-17

Figure 2-4 Sample NATOPS Interim Change Recommendation Message ........ 2-19

Figure 2-5 Sample NATOPS Interim Change Message ....................... 2-21

Figure 2-6 Sample NATOPS Review Conference Convening Message .......... 2-24

Figure 2-7 Sample NATOPS Review Conference Report Cover Letter ........ 2-28

Figure 2-8 Sample NATOPS Review Conference Agreement .................. 2-30

Figure 2-9 Sample Pilot/NFO/Enlisted Aircrew Flight Logbook Entry ..... 2-39

CHAPTER 4 — FLIGHT AUTHORIZATION, PLANNING AND APPROVAL

Figure 4-1 IFR Filing Criteria ........................................ 4-12

CHAPTER 5 — FLIGHT RULES

Figure 5-1 ACM Qualification .......................................... 5-12

Figure 5-2 ACM Currency ............................................... 5-13

Figure 5-3 Basic VFR Flight Minimums .................................. 5-27

CHAPTER 8 — AEROMEDICAL AND SURVIVAL

Figure 8-1 Antiexposure Suit Requirements (Sheet 1 of 2) ............... 8-3

Figure 8-2 Wind Chill Index ............................................ 8-5

Figure 8-3 Occurrence of Major Injury Resulting from Parachute Landing on Land or Ship in Ejections Between 1969 and 1998 in High Winds.......................................... 8-9

Figure 8-4 Unpressurized Aircraft with Oxygen Systems Available ....... 8-10

Figure 8-5 AFRL DCS Risk Assessment Model (No Pre-Oxygenation and Mild Activity)............................................. 8-11

Figure 8-6 AFRL DCS Risk Assessment Model (100% Pre-Oxygenation and Mild Activity)............................................. 8-12

Figure 8-7 Oxygen Requirement for Pressurized Aircraft Other Than TACTICAL Jet Aircraft...................................... 8-13

Figure 8-8 Maximum Recommended Flight Time ............................ 8-17

Figure 8-9 COMNAVAIRSYSCOM Certified Crewmember Weights for Ejection Seat Aircraft.............................................. 8-23

Figure 8-10 COMNAVAIRSYSCOM Certified Crewmember Weights for Crash Force Attenuating Seat Aircraft............................ 8-24

CHAPTER 10 — FLIGHT RECORDS, REPORTS AND FORMS

Figure 10-1 Aircraft Data Section (OPNAV 3710/4) ....................... 10-8

Figure 10-2 Aircrew Data Section (OPNAV 3710/4) ....................... 10-11

November 23, 2009 xv

Figure 10-3 Logistics Data Section (OPNAV 3710/4) ..................... 10-15

Figure 10-4 Weapons Proficiency Data Section (OPNAV 3710/4) ........... 10-17

Figure 10-5 Personnel Data Section (OPNAV 3710/4) ..................... 10-18

CHAPTER 11 — GENERAL INSTRUCTIONS ON DUTY INVOLVING FLYING AND

ANNUAL FLIGHT PERFORMANCE REQUIREMENTS

Figure 11-1 Aviation Qualification/Currency Requirements Summary

(Naval Aviator)............................................ 11-7

Figure 11-2 Aviation Qualification/Currency Requirements Summary (NFO/AVOPS/Flight Surgeon)................................. 11-8

Figure 11-3 Aviation Qualification/Currency Requirements Summary (NAC) . 11-9

Figure 11-4 Aviation Status Indicator Codes (Sheet 1 of 2) ............ 11-13

Figure 11-5 Minimum Flight Time Requirements Waiver Request ........... 11-17

APPENDIX B — NATOPS FLIGHT PERSONNEL TRAINING/QUALIFICATION JACKET

Figure B-1 Privacy Act Statement ....................................... B-2

APPENDIX D — TOTAL MISSION REQUIREMENT (TMR) CODES

Figure D-1 Total Mission Requirement (TMR) Codes (Sheet 1 of 15) ...... D-11

APPENDIX E — NAVAL AVIATION SURVIVAL TRAINING PROGRAM (NASTP)

REQUIREMENTS

Figure E-1 NASTP Training Status ....................................... E-1

Figure E-2 NASTP Courses ............................................... E-2

Figure E-3 New Versus Previous NASTP Curricula Nomenclature ............ E-3

Figure E-4 Aircraft Class .............................................. E-6

1-1

CHAPTER 1

Introduction

1.1 GENERAL

a. The Naval Air Training and Operating Procedures Standardization (NATOPS) program is a positive approach towards improving combat readiness and achieving a substantial reduction in aircraft mishaps. This instruction issues policy and procedural guidance of the Chief of Naval Operations (CNO) that is applicable to all NATOPS users.

b. Use of operational risk management (ORM) in the planning and execution of all military training is mandated by reference (a). Reference (b) further directs all Navy and Marine Corps activities to apply ORM in planning operations and training to optimize operational capabilities and readiness.

1.1.1 Purpose and Scope

a. This instruction prescribes general flight and operating instructions and procedures applicable to the operation of all naval aircraft and related activities. This instruction is not intended to cover every contingency that may arise nor every rule of safety and good practice. To achieve maximum value, the contents of all directives cited must be studied and understood. Routine interpretation and procedural questions should be referred to type wing/type command NATOPS offices for resolution prior to referral to Commander, Naval Air Forces (COMNAVAIRFOR). Where the need arises, special instructions or waivers will be issued by COMNAVAIRFOR.

b. References cited in the text of this instruction are identified by the appropriate reference designation, i.e., “reference (a),” “reference (b),” etc.

The identification of the references are listed in appendix A.

c. In the tactical environment, military exigency may require on-site deviations from instructions/procedures contained here. The existing risk of deviation must continually be weighed against the benefit of deviating from this instruction. Deviation from specified flight and operating instructions is authorized in emergency situations when, in the judgment of the pilot in command (PIC), safety justifies such a deviation.

d. It is often not feasible to completely specify all situations or circumstances under which provisions of this instruction shall apply; therefore, wording such as “normally,” “etc.,” “usually,” and “such as” is employed. Words or clauses of that type shall not be used as loopholes nor shall they be expanded to include a maneuver, situation, or circumstance that should not be performed or encountered by the aircraft in question.

e. To increase combat readiness and improve flight safety, the scope and operation of the…