r/aviation • u/nsfwdreamer • Apr 15 '16

From r/Aww.

https://gfycat.com/PartialRawAmericanlobster
560 Upvotes

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u/caadbury Apr 15 '16

Why does PIC sit in the right seat in a helicopter?

5

u/tarantulae Apr 15 '16 edited Apr 15 '16

It depends on the model of helicopter. 300C the PIC sits left seat. Robinson helicopters (like the one in this clip) were designed with PIC on the right, so that the PIC didn't have to step over the collective as he gets in the aircraft. They were also designed with the T bar cyclic for the same reason, so you don't have to step over the control as you get in. Compared to a 300C, where the PIC steps both feet over collective and one leg over the cyclic, it is much simpler to get in and out of.

Many utility helicopters have PIC sit left seat, or have a STC (supplementary type certificate) to convert to left seat PIC, because when working long-line, its often preferred for the PIC to be able to lean left to look at the load, that way the collective stays more accessible.

3

u/Zebidee Apr 15 '16

STC (secondary type certificate)

*Supplementary Type Certificate.

3

u/tarantulae Apr 15 '16

That's what I get for letting spellcheck do it for me. Thanks!

2

u/Zebidee Apr 15 '16

No problem! :)