ordvac.comordvac.com/soro/library/Aviation/2013/Aviation Plans/2013... · Web view2.1 Columbia Cascade Aviation Organization. NSA. Manager/Forest Supervisor: The NSA Manager and the

Prepared: _____________________________________ Date: __________Steve Arasim, Unit Aviation Officer

Reviewed: ______________________________________ Date: __________Ross Williams, Deputy Fire Staff Officer-Operation: Gifford Pinchot/ Mt. Hood National Forests

Reviewed: _______________________________________Date: __________Debora Roy, Fire Staff Officer-Operation: Gifford Pinchot/ Mt. Hood National Forests

Reviewed: _______________________________________Date: __________Darren Kennedy, Forest Fire Management Officer: Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area

Reviewed: /s/ Aaron Schoolcraft_____________________Date: _6.18.2013_Aaron Schoolcraft: PNW/AK Regional Aviation Officer

Approved: _______________________________________Date: __________Lynn Burditt, Area Manager: Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area

Approved: _______________________________________Date: __________Janine Clayton, Forest Supervisor: Gifford Pinchot National Forest

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2013/2014 Columbia Cascade Aviation Management PlanSignatures and Approvals

Approved: _______________________________________Date: __________Lisa Northrop, Forest Supervisor (Acting) Mt. Hood National Forest

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Tables of Content

1.0 Aviation Management Plan

1.1 Purpose1.2 Mission Statement1.3 Columbia Cascade Aviation Management Philosophy1.4 Aviation Doctrine1.5 National Aircraft Management Strategy1.6 Authority1.7 General Policy

2.0 Aviation Organization and Responsibilities

2.1 Columbia Cascade Organization2.2 Additional Aviation Positions2.3 National Groups/ Committees 2.4 Columbia Cascade Aviation Contacts

3.0 Administrative

3.1 General3.2 Reporting and Documentation Requirements3.3 Aviation Plans3.3.1 Unit Aviation Management Plans3.4 Aircrew Incident Management Team Briefing Package3.5 Land Use Policy for Aviation Activities3.5.1 Temporary Aviation Operations3.6 Budget3.7 Contracting3.8 Aircraft Contracting Start / Modification/ Extension3.9 Contractor Performance3.10 End Product Contracts3.10.1 End Product Contract Specification3.10.2 End Product Project Management3.11 Supplemental Fire Aircraft Acquisition3.12 Cooperator Aircraft3.13 Aircraft Administrative Use and Reports3.14 Dispatching3.14.1 Administrative Flights3.14.2 Lead Plane Use3.14.3 Project Flights

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3.14.4 Tactical Aircraft3.14.5 Passenger Approvals and Transport3.15 Flight Use Reports3.16 Charge Codes3.17 Working Capital Fund (WCF)3.18 Federal Excess Property (FEPP)3.19 Financial Business Management System (FMBS)3.20 Program Reviews3.21 New Program Requests

4.0 Aviation Safety Management Systems

4.1 General4.2 Safety Management Systems (SMS)4.3 Policy4.4 Risk Management4.5 Assurance4.5.1 Aviation Safety and Technical Assistance Team (ASTAT)4.5.2 Aviation Safety Communique –SAFECOM4.5.3 Aircraft Accident Investigation Process4.5.4 Project Aviation Safety Planning (PASP)4.6 Promotion4.7 National Fire and Aviation Operations Alert System4.8 Unit Aviation Hazard Maps4.9 Personal Protective Equipment

5.0 Aviation Operations

5.1 General5.2 Operational Guides and Handbooks5.2.1 Manuals5.2.2 Handbooks5.2.3 Plans5.2.4 Guides5.2.5 Interagency Guides5.3 Public/ Civil Aircraft Operations5.4 Employee on Non-Forest Service Aircraft5.5 Emergency Exceptions to Policy5.6 Flight Planning5.7 Flight Following5.8 Radio Frequency Management and Communication5.8.1 Columbia Cascade Communication Center Frequency Guide5.9 Latitude and Longitude Format5.10 Overdue or Missing Aircraft5.11 Aviation Mishap Response5.12 Passengers5.13 Transport of Hazardous Materials5.14 Invasive Species Control

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5.15 Fire Chemicals and Aerial Application Policy near Waterways5.16 Search and Rescue (SAR)5.17 Airtanker Operations5.17.1 Very Large Airtankers (VLAT)5.17.2 Airtanker Base Personnel5.17.3 Non Federal Airtankers5.18 SEAT Operations5.19 Aerial Supervision/ Leadplane Operations5.19.1 Aerial Supervision Personnel5.20 Helicopter Operations5.20.1 Helitack5.20.2 Rappel5.20.3 Cargo Letdown5.20.4 Short-Haul and Hoist (Law Enforcement & Investigations

ONLY)5.20.5 Helicopter Screening and Evaluation Board5.20.6 Call-When-Needed Helicopter Management5.21 Aerial Ignition Operations5.22 Wild Horse and Burro Operations5.23 Aerial Capture, Eradication, and Tagging of Animals (ACETA)5.24 Smokejumper Operations5.25 Light Fixed-Wing Operations5.25.1 Reconnaissance or Patrol Flights5.25.2 Single Engine Instrument Meteorological Conditions and Night

Flight5.25.3 Backcountry Airstrips Operations

5.26 Law Enforcement and Investigation (LEI) Operations5.27 Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS)

6.0 Aviation Training

6.1 Aviation Training for All Flight Activities and Positions6.2 Responsibility6.3 Instructor Standards6.4 Records Management6.5 Tuition and Travel6.6 Development6.7 IAT/ NWCG Crosswalk6.8 Contract Contracting Officer Representative (COR) Requirements

7.0 Airspace

7.1 Interagency Airspace Coordination7.2 Fire Traffic Area (FTA)7.3 Temporary Flight Restriction (TFR) 7.3.1 Military Training Routes (MTRs)7.4 Aircraft Transponder Code (Firefighter)

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7.5 Airspace Boundary Plan7.6 Airspace Deconfliction 7.7 Airspace Conflicts7.7.1 Mt. St. Helens Research Flights, Helicopter Logging, and End

Product Operation7.8 Airspace Agreements- Memorandum of Understanding

8.0 Aviation Security

8.1 Aviation Security 8.2 Forest Service Facilities Security Risk Assessments 8.3 Forest Service Security Response Actions 8.4 General Aviation Security Awareness Programs 8.5 Aircraft Security Information (Cooperators) 8.6 TSA Commercial Airport Security

9.0 Aviation Facilities

9.1 General9.2 Permanent Air Bases9.3 Temporary Bases9.4 Safety9.5 Agency Owned/ Operated Facilities9.6 Agency Owned/ Operated Airstrips9.7 Leasing 9.8 Funding9.9 Land Use Agreements9.10 Facilities Security

10.0 Appendix 10.1 Letters of Delegations10.2 Troutdale Air Tanker Base Plan (under separate cover)10.3 Aviation Mishap Response Guide10.4 Aircrew and Incident Management Team Briefing Package (under

separate cover)10.5 End Product Form10.6 Public/Civil Aircraft Utilization Dispatch Worksheet (Public law 103-411)10.7 Summary of Requirements and Approval for Passenger Air Transport10.8 Aircraft Flight Planning Flow Chart10.9 Columbia Cascade Communication Center Frequency Guide10.10 Aerial Supervision Guidelines10.11 Interagency Aviation Training Matrix10.12 Fire Traffic Area Diagram10.13 Project Aviation Safety Plan

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10.14 Pacific Northwest Interagency Aviation Contact List10.15 Aviation Risk Management Workbook

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Chapter 1 - AVIATION MANAGEMENT PLAN

1.1 Purpose

This Columbia Cascade Aviation Management Plan set forth policy, procedures, and guidance to implement aviation management programs for Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area (NSA), Gifford Pinchot (GPF), and Mt. Hood National Forests (MHF). This plan is supplemental to U.S. Forest Manual 5700, Handbook 5709.16, U.S. Forest Service National Aviation Safety and Management Plan (FS-NASMP), Pacific Northwest /Alaska Aviation Plan (NW/AK AP), and Federal Aviation Regulations (14 CFR). This plan is reviewed and updated annually . This document serves to delegate authorities and duties from NSA Area Manager and GPF/MHF Forest supervisors through Fire Management Officer and Fire Staff to unit aviation Officer.

1.2 Mission Statement

The Columbia Cascade Aviation Management Plan provides for safe and efficient aviation services to meet land management and incident objectives. Utilization of technology, sound aviation management practices, and highly trained and motivated personnel will reduce risk, loss, wastes, and expenditures.

1.3 Columbia Cascade Aviation Philosophy

The highest priority in any aviation activity will be personal safety. Our goal is risk reduction, proactive hazard identification, and accident prevention. The complex nature aviation missions and Northwest weather conditions, requires the guidance of a philosophy reflecting the basic tenets of safety. Our goal is to provide safe and efficient aviation support for unit’s aviation missions, while conducting our actions in accordance with this philosophy and regulatory guidance.

An active and aggressive accident prevention program intended to protect our most precious assets-the people utilizing our services.

We must be proactive in safety management. The aviation organization will be structured in a manner to maintain the most

effective management level, commensurate with local aviation operations. Risk management will remain incorporated into all aviation operations. Line Officers are responsible for all aircraft missions. Management has the responsibility to maintain the commitment to aviation

safety and efficiency. There must be planning for flight operations to include safety, risk

management, supervision, organization, and evaluation. Aviation personnel will be qualified and appropriately trained to standards

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Aviation personnel will provide emphasis and consideration for individual development, employee wellness, and workforce diversity.

1.4 Aviation DoctrineSee FS- NASMP and NW/AK AP.

1.5 National Aircraft Management Strategy

See FS- NASMP and NW/AK AP.

1.6 Authority

This plan meets Forest Service policy requirements as described in the FSM 5700, FSH5709.16, FS-NASMP, and NW/AK AP. The plan will be updated, reviewed, and approved by June 30.

1.7 General Policy

The policy of the Forest Service requires employees to follow the direction in aviation manuals, handbooks, and the aviation guides as listed in the FS Manual section 5700.

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Chapter 2 - Aviation Management Organization

2.1 Columbia Cascade Aviation Organization

NSA Manager/Forest Supervisor:

The NSA Manager and the respective Forest Supervisors are responsible for all aviation activities on their units. Responsibilities outlined in FSM 5704.6 have been delegated to the Unit Aviation Officer (UAO). Line Officer responsibilities are located in the FSM 5720.48a, FS-NASMP, and NW/AK AP.

Columbia Cascade Aviation Officer:

The Unit Aviation Officer is designated by each Forest Supervisor and NSA Manager, and is responsible for general oversight and guidance for all aviation operations being conducted within those units. This includes support to the fire program, resource programs (non-fire), and all administrative uses of aircraft. He or she primary responsibilities include; monitoring field compliance of existing aviation policy and standards, and communicating any newly implemented policy or standards to the field. In addition, this position is responsible for initiating corrective actions related to deficiencies or misapplications of policy or standards, when detected, and as otherwise directed by line officers, and/or regional aviation management staff. Specific roles and responsibilities of the Columbia Cascade Aviation Officer include, but are not limited to:

Provides technical oversight and management direction for aviation resources used to support NSA and Forest programs.

Responsible for and delegated authority to stop aviation activities that are unsafe or are not operating within agency policy guidelines.

Reviews and approves (Regional delegation authority required) of Low and Moderate complexity Project Aviation Safety Plans (PASP’s).

Ensures that all NSA and Forest aviation operations comply with Forest Service and regional aviation policies.

Maintains coordination with other government agencies, and cooperators on subjects involving aviation operations that affect the unit(s).

Develops the Unit Aviation Plan and performs annual updates, edits, and approvals commensurate with current policy changes.

Ensures Boundary Airspace Management Checklist and Aviation Mishap Guide are current/utilized.

Provides the Regional Aviation Officer the Unit Aviation Plan. Serves as the COR for CWN light fixed- wing and Helicopter rental agreements. Serve as the primary contact for Regional Aviation Officer and Regional

Aviation Group.12

Briefs aircrews, Incident Management Teams and Operators on NSA/Forests flight following standards and specific aviation mission requirements.

Participates in annual aviation related workshops and meetings, and participates in local/regional conference calls, as scheduled.

Additional responsibilities outline in FSM 5704.61, FS- NASMP, and NW/AK AP.

During those times when the UAO is absent from the NSA/Forests, he/she will designate an Acting Unit Aviation Officer. The UAO will ensure that the acting has the experience and training needed to meet the unit needs and is knowledgeable about current issues affecting these duties and is a qualified Aviation Manager as outlined in the Interagency Aviation Training Guide.

Appendix: 10.1-Delegation Letters

Dispatch Center Floor Coordinator/Manager:

The Dispatch Floor Coordinator/Manager will have a thorough knowledge of aviation operations, and shall insure that Local (Agency/Casual Hire) Dispatchers are trained in aviation operations, policies, procedures, and are able to perform a wide range of aircraft dispatching duties. These duties include but are not limited to:

Maintains a file of all locally approved aircraft and pilots available to the forest, and assures agency ordering procedures, flight tracking/flight following, and mishap response standards are being met.

Initiates aviation mishap response actions as outlined in the forest Aviation Mishap Response Guide (AMRG).

Initiates actions to order Aerial Supervision. Schedules all administrative flights for Units and coordinates with Northwest

Coordination Center for use of regional aircraft. Participates in the briefing and debriefing process with aircrews on forest

aviation missions. Provides operational coordination with other government agencies, and

neighboring units on subjects involving aviation operations.

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Aircraft Dispatcher:

Aircraft dispatchers are responsible for ordering aviation overhead, approved aircraft and tracking tactical and resource aircraft with in their respective zones. (Reference the NW/AK AP for defined roles and responsibilities).

District Ranger/Monument Manager:

District Rangers/Monument Manager will designate an Aviation contact for their respective unit. If no contact is identified, the Zone Fire Management Officer (ZFMO) will be the unit’s contact. Several aviation responsibilities reside solely with the District Ranger/Monument Manager (Unit Line Officer), they include:

Approval authority (Signature) on Local Project Aviation Safety Plans (PASP’s); Approval authority (signature) for transportation of non-federal passengers on

agency controlled flights. (Required form 5700-12 Day Trip Authorization); Approval authority for Search & Rescue requests (Assistance to local Law

Enforcement ); Specific authorizations for the use of mechanized equipment within designated

wilderness areas (i.e. aircraft landings).

Line Officer responsibilities are located in the FSM 5720.48a, FS-NASMP, and NW/AK AP.

Aircraft Managers:

Aircraft Managers include helicopter, Single Engine Air Tanker (SEAT), and AirTactical Group Supervisors. Managers are responsible for planning, coordinating andsupervising daily aircraft operations according to Forest Service policy; Duties include but are not limited to:

Serves as the COR, Alternate COR, or Project Inspector to administer exclusive use or CWN aviation contracts in the field;.

Directs and briefs pilot, project leaders, and crews in flight objectives and operations.

Conducts risk or hazard analysis for each project or mission. Approves flight invoices, completes daily diaries and other administrative,

and contract documentation. Maintains pilot flight/duty records.

Project Aviation Manager:

A Project Manager will be designated for all aviation projects on the NSA and Forest. Project Managers are responsible for preparing a PASP for any project without previous approval (sign off), or listed as pre-approved in this Aviation Plan. The Project Manager is also expected to provide direct aviation supervision of project operations and/or provide oversight (assurance) that on-site supervision and aviation

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position staffing meets or exceeds those established by the PASP. They will be qualified as a Project Aviation manager as outlined in the Interagency Aviation Training Guide.

The primary responsibilities of the Project Aviation Managers are:

Assist in the development of PASP's and/or other planning documents as required.

Ensure safety and project operational briefings are provided to all participating personnel of the project, including the pilot(s).

Ensure that all aerial activities are conducted in accordance with all applicable policy, regulations, interagency guidance, and contract specifications.

Keeps the UAO, COR, and/or Contracting Officer briefed on daily progress, as requested or specified.

Immediately report aircraft accidents/incidents to the UAO and submit a SAFECOM (Form 5700-14) within required timeframes.

Maintains records and documents pertaining to project activities. Ensures aviation mishap plans are in place and known by all participating

parties. (project personnel, Columbia Dispatch)

Fixed Wing Flight Managers: The Flight Manager is a government employee who ensures compliance with Exclusive use contract, Call-When-Needed contract, or Aircraft Rental Agreement (ARA) requirements. Individual is responsible for coordinating a specific flight or project. Individual must have attended/completed a B-3 Basic Airplane and Helicopter Safety course, or the on-line B-3 refresher training within the past three years, as well as any other available, required IAT modules for Flight Manager. Duties include but are not limited to:

Inspecting the pilot qualification card and aircraft data card for currency and qualifications.

Briefing pilot, Aircrew, and Dispatch on mission details, ensuring the pilot gives a safety briefing to the Aircrew.

Ensuring the flight is conducted within DOI/BLM policy and does not deviate from the established flight plan, route, or mission profile without prior authorization.

Initials flight invoices and routes payment documents according to the procedures outlined in the Contract and the Unit Aviation Plan.

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All NSA and Forest Employees:

It is imperative that when employees consider the use of aircraft that they become familiar with the policies and operating guidelines that direct their use, and solicit help for planning and execution of aviation missions. Employees can contact the UAO, Dispatch Floor Coordinator /Manager or aircraft Dispatcher with any questions regarding aircraft usage, both for general transportation, or specific project support. All Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area, Gifford Pinchot, and Mt. Hood National Forests employees that ride in aircraft for land management missions (resource) are required to meet the Aircrew Member IAT training requirements. (A-101, A-105, A-106, A-108, A-113, and A-200, all are available on-line).

Any employee that is an aircraft passenger may terminate or refuse any flight if he or she feels the pilot is operating in an unsafe manner. Unsafe flying may include, but is not limited to:

1) Flying below 500 feet above ground level. 2) Showing off or "hot dogging".3) Flying in marginal weather conditions (poor visibility, icing, and turbulent

conditions). 4) Being uncooperative. 5) Pressuring you to fly, or flying into an area when it "just doesn't feel right".

Forest Service employees not employed as pilots who act as a pilot for any mission, except point-to-point transportation of the employee alone, shall meet the qualifications of a Forest Service pilot, including special qualifications for specific missions. For point-to-point transportation of the employee alone, when in official travel status, the following minimum qualifications are mandatory: See FSH 5712.35.

2.2 Additional Aviation Positions

Contracting Officer (CO):

The Zone Contracting Officer is responsible for contacting the Unit Aviation Officer whenever the use of aviation resources is proposed in a forest level contract. This is to ensure the proposed contract is clearly designated as either an aviation “services” or aviation “end product” contract. The importance of this pre-solicitation designation is for developing the appropriate contract clauses, specifications, and level of aviation oversight required by agency policy. Note: Any contract/agreement related inspection approvals (carding of aircraft and/or pilots) will be coordinated through the Unit Aviation Officer and with the Regional Aviation Group.Note: All Aviation Services Contracts require an approved PASP. End Product aviation contracts do not require a PASP.

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Contracting Officer's Representative (COR)

Aviation COR duties and responsibilities will be outlined in a Designation of Authority letter from the Contracting Officer. For aircraft contracts, the COR shall meet the Level II or III certification requirements listed in Departmental Regulation 5001-1.

Call-When-Needed (CWN) Helicopter Managers:

A qualified Helicopter Manager will be assigned to all helicopters operating on the NSA/Forest, as required by the IHOG Ch 2. Helicopter Managers may be available locally, or may be ordered via resource order through the Columbia Cascade Communication Center. Once the helicopter is mobilize, the helicopter manager will have complete control of the assigned helicopter. The manager will report and work directly with either an incident commander (fire) or project manager (non-fire) until the helicopter is released. Off forest, assignments are contingent upon the availability of the individual.

Helicopter Crewmembers: Qualified Helicopter Crewmembers will be assigned to all helicopters operating on the forest, to meet IHOG staffing requirements (Ref: IHOG Chapter 2 – Personnel). Locally available crewmembers will be used to staff in-coming CWN helicopter resources for both Fire, and Non-Fire (Project) assignments. If local crewmembers are un-available to fill out a required module, a resource order will be generated by the Columbia Cascade Communication Center for the missing position/s. Off- forest assignments are contingent upon the availability of the individual.

Troutdale Airtanker Base Manager (ATBM):

The ATBM’s primary assignment is for the safety, management, and supervision of their Airtanker Base and its personnel. Individuals may be assigned to other bases when needed. If the primary ATBM is away from the Troutdale Airtanker Base, a fully qualified individual will be assigned to manage this facility. The ATBM's duties are listed in the job description for this position, and in the base operating plan.Appendix: 10.2-Troutdale Air Tanker Base Plan

PILOTS (PILO)The pilot in command is the final authority for the operation of an aircraft at all times,and is responsible for the safety of the flight and all personnel on board. The Pilot is authorized to terminate a flight at any time for safety reasons.

2.3 National and Regional Groups/CommitteesSee FS- NASMP and NW/AK AP.

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2.4 Columbia Cascade Aviation Contacts:Name Title Phone E-Mail

Steve Arasim Unit Aviation Officer/ Center Manager 360-891-5142 [email protected] River Gorge National Scenic Area

Darren Kennedy Fire Management Officer 541-308-1724 [email protected]

Gifford Pinchot & Mt. Hood National Forest Fire OrganizationDeb Roy GPF/MHF Forest Fire Staff 503-668-1756 [email protected]

Ross Williams GPF/MHF Dep. Forest Fire Staff -Ops 360-891-5146 [email protected] George Air Tanker Base Manager 503-666-3828 [email protected]

Mt. Hood National East Side Fire ZoneKim Valentine Fire Management Officer 541-467-5157 [email protected] Segovia Hood River District Aviation Contact 541-490-6002 [email protected]

Scott MacDonald Barlow District Aviation Contact 541-467-5110 [email protected]. Hood National West Fire Zone

Mike Moore Fire Management Officer 503-630-8783 [email protected] Currie Clackamas Aviation Contact 503-630-8809 [email protected]

Jeremy Goers Zig Zag District Aviation Contact 503-622-2011 [email protected] Pinchot North Zone

Jennifer Harris Fire Management Officer 360-497-1122 [email protected] Wilstead Cowlitz Valley District Aviation Contact 360-497-1175 [email protected] DeShazer St. Helen Monument Aviation Contact 360-449-7819 [email protected]

Gary Walker St. Helen Monument Aviation Contact 360-449-7819 [email protected] Pankratz St. Helen District Aviation Contact 360-449-7825 [email protected]

Gifford Pinchot South ZoneGail Bouchard Fire Management Officer 509-395-3440 [email protected]

Pete Nelson Mt. Adams Aviation Contact 509-395-3443 [email protected] Forest Service Region 6

Aaron Schoolcraft Regional Aviation Officer 503-808-2359 [email protected] Sterling Aviation Safety Manager 541-504-7263 [email protected] Stewart Airspace Coordinator 503-808-6728 [email protected]

Region Aviation GroupKim Reed Aviation Operation Manager/HIP 541-504-7264 [email protected]

David Glose Helicopter Operation Specialist 541-504-7274 [email protected] Lucas Helicopter Operation Inspector 541-504-7268 [email protected] Reed Avionics Inspector 541-504-7254 [email protected] Scholl Asst. Helicopter Operation Specialist 541-504-7379 [email protected] Cook Aviation Maintenance inspector 541-504-7267 [email protected]

Brian Green Aviation Maintenance inspector 541-504-7275 [email protected] McGrane Aviation Contracting Officer 541-504-7273 [email protected]

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Chapter 3.0 - Administration3.1 General

The aviation program involve fire detection, fire suppression, administrative travel, reconnaissance, and special projects, involving both fixed-wing and rotor-wing aircraft. The highest usage of aviation assets is for Fire Management and these activities occur between May and October.

3.2 Reporting and Documentation RequirementsThe importance of accurate, comprehensive flight and administrative records cannot be overemphasized. All documentation should be retained locally for at least three years. Typical files include:

General Use Flight Plans & Documentation Flight Following Logs Special Use Flight Plans CWN administration Files Individual Aviation Training and Qualification Records Local Aerial Hazard/Helispot/Airstrip Database Aviation Incident/Accident Files Aviation Memo/Bulletin/Alert File Aviation Forms For additional requirements refer to the NASMP and RASMP

3.3 National and Regional Aviation PlansSee FS- NASMP and NW/AK AP.

3.3.1 Unit Aviation Management Plans Unit plans and supplements are required to implement national, regional, and state aviation policies, and to establish local procedures and protocols. The Columbia Cascade plan will be reviewed and updated annually by the UAO. The unit aviation plan and additional plans are approved by the line officers of each organization. This plan will address local administrative and operational procedures including, but not limited to:

Local Aviation organization, roles and responsibilities Identification of typical aviation missions SMS and local aviation safety and accident prevention measures Flight hazards Administrative procedures Aircraft ordering procedures Dispatching and flight following procedures Radio use, frequencies, and repeater locations Airspace coordination to include Boundary Zone de-confliction Aviation facilities Aviation training program

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Forest Aviation Mishap Response Plan:

Columbia Dispatch and the UAO are responsible for preparing and annually updating of the Unit Aviation Mishap Response Guide, which addresses at a minimum; overdue and missing aircraft procedures, aircraft incident/accident reporting forms, and emergency contact lists and notification protocols for reporting aircraft mishaps. An updated copy of the Unit Aviation Mishap Response Guide shall be distributed seasonally to each Fire Management Office, aviation base, and to arriving Incident Management Teams. In addition, a copy of the Mishap call down/notification tree will be attached to each PASP.Appendix: 10-3- Columbia Cascade Aviation Mishap Response Guide

Project Aviation Safety Plans (PASP)

Project Aviation Safety Plan will be the standard applied to all aviation planning. Individuals developing a PASP will consult the System Safety Aviation Risk Management Workbook for information regarding the hazards, risks, and suggested mitigations associated with their specific aviation project. Any aviation projects not approved in this plan should be submitted to the UAO as soon in the planning process as possible for review. The Columbia Cascade Aviation Officer, Steve Arasim, has been delegated the authority to review all Project Aviation Safety Plans on this unit. PASP’s that are unique, unusual, or “first of a kind” will be submitted to the UAO who will review and submit to the Region for review. Once Regional review has occurred, line officer approval will be required.

Appendix : 10.13-Project Aviation Safety Plan-Example

Flight Activities Approved Under This Plan:

Aerial Detection/reconnaissance: These flights may be made with either fixed or rotor wing aircraft, (fixed-wing aircraft will remain above 500 feet Above Ground Level (AGL). All flights will be requested through Dispatch. Flights will follow a flight plan filed with dispatch. Other flight activities (e.g. low-level military, heli-logging, etc.) will be considered when planning flight routes. Plans will include a 15-minute time interval between check-ins or flight following with Automated Flight Following (AFF) and should designate the individual who will monitor the flight.

Suppression: Fixed and rotor wing aircraft may be used for initial attack and extended support of fire suppression activities. Fixed wing resources within the region normally include Type I or II Air tankers at Moses Lake, Washington, and Redmond, La Grande, Klamath Falls and Medford, Oregon. Leadplanes are Redmond, Oregon. Regional Air Attack platform are located at Wenatchee,

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Washington and Redmond, Oregon. Smokejumper aircraft are based at Winthrop, Washington and Redmond, Oregon. Rappel aircraft are located at Wenatchee, Washington, Prineville, Oregon, Grand Pass, Oregon, John Day, Oregon and La Grande, Oregon.

Resource reconnaissance: These flights may be made with either fixed or rotor -wing aircraft, (fixed-wing aircraft will remain above 500 feet AGL). All flights will be requested through Dispatch. Flights will follow a flight plan filed with dispatch. Other airspace users (e.g. low level military) will be considered when planning flight routes. Plans will include a 15-minute time interval between check-ins or flight following with AFF and should designate the individual who will monitor the flight.

Administrative Travel: Light fixed-wing aircraft may be used for moving firefighters to fires or other personnel to training/meetings when it is the most efficient method of travel. In addition to the pilot filing an FAA flight plan, the sending dispatcher is responsible for resource tracking and informing pilots of flight following procedures (Chapter 20: Northwest Mobilization Guide). Pilots/Fixed-Wing Flight Managers will be instructed to check in at intermediate stops (schedule permitting) and at the destination. Authorization and documentation of administrative flights will be in accordance with the PNW Administrative Aircraft Use Guide. The Fixed-Wing Flight Manager will assure that both aircraft and pilot have proper cardings for the transport of passengers.

Aerial Application – Seed, Fertilizer, and Spraying: Aerial application projects may be implemented with Forest Service personnel or contracted by the job. All Flight Services Contracts will require a Project Aviation Safety Plan approved through the UAO. End-Product Contracts will not require a Project Aviation Safety Plan. Use 5711.2, to identify whether a project requires a flight services contract or an end-product contract.

Aerial Ignition: Aerial ignition projects will be planned in accordance with the Interagency Aerial Ignition Guide (IAIG). Dispatch or UAO will check with neighboring units or local contractors on the availability of both Helitorch and Plastic Sphere Dispensers. Qualified personnel will implement the project and appropriate checklists will be used.

External Loads: By their nature, these projects contain the most hazards for all involved. Safety of personnel and equipment will be the primary planning consideration. (Ref: IHOG Chapter 11)

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Law Enforcement: All Law Enforcement flights involving Forest Service personnel are coordinated through Dispatch. Contract helicopter pilots have the right of refusal as specified in current Region 6 and National Helicopter Contracts. (See FS- NASMP and NW/AK AP).

Covert flights are planned, coordinated, and approved by the Regional Aviation Officer and Regional Special Agent. The UAO and Dispatch will be informed by the Special Agent in Charge to coordinate safety procedures or other support as requested. Flight following will be performed in accordance with procedures specified in the National Mobilization Guide or FSH 5309.11 Chapter 50. Covert flights by the county Sheriff’s Office are coordinated through the local Forest Service Law Enforcement Officers, who will in turn notify Dispatch and/or the UAO of planned areas and times of operation.

Other Aviation Projects: Other occasional aviation uses include Region 06 Regional Office, Aerial Photo, Search and Rescue, Forest Health Surveys, and Media flights.

3.4 Aircrew and Incident Management Briefing Package See FS- NASMP and NW/AK AP.

3.5 Land Use Policy for Aviation Activities

Regulation of aviation activities on NSA/Forest lands are described in land resource management plans and wilderness management plans. Requests by private or other governmental entities to conduct aviation activities are addressed by the various management plans and/or use agreement protocols.

3.5.1 Temporary Aviation Operations

Those operations under Forest Service operational control and supporting agency fire or resource management operations, on Forest Service land should be coordinated with the local resource advisor. Restrictions should be identified in a PASP.

3.6 BudgetSee FS- NASMP and NW/AK AP

3.7 ContractingSee FS- NASMP and NW/AK AP

Call When Needed (CWN) Aircraft:

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Light Helicopter (Type 3) are regionally contracted in the Northwest Area for fire and project use, and ordered through standard dispatch channels ( REF: Northwest Mobilization Guide Chapter 20). The contract schedule of items, and specified flight rates can be accessed from the Pacific Northwest Acquisition Management (Fire Procurement) web site: http://www.fs.fed.us/r6/ppm/fire-procurement.shtml

Columbia Cascade Light Helicopters (Type 3) Vendors

Hillsboro Aviation Hillsboro, OregonJR Helicopters Yakima, WashingtonJL Aviation Troutdale, Oregon

Light Fixed Wing (LWF) are available through region 6 LWF Contracts. These aircraft are available through Columbia Dispatch. The LFW contracts schedule of Items can be found at: http://www.fs.fed.us/r6/ppm/fire-procurement.shtml

Fixed Wing Vendors

Hillsboro Aviation Hillsboro, Oregon

3.8 Aircraft Contract Start/ Modification/ ExtensionSee FS- NASMP and NW/AK AP

3.9 Contractor PerformanceSee FS- NASMP and NW/AK AP

3.10 End Product ContractsSee FS- NASMP and NW/AK AP

3.10.1 End Product Contract Specifications

Specifications in the contract must only describe the desired quantity or quality of the service or contracted end-result. Forest Service contracting officers, procurement specialists and aviation managers must be aware of these requirements. EndProduct contracts where contractors could conceivably utilize aircraft must be reviewed by the Unit Aviation Officer prior to solicitation to ensure that specifications and language do not unintentionally imply or determine aircraft operation control.

The following list describes acceptable contract language for End Product Contracts.

1. No contract language describing aircraft or pilot capabilities, standards, requirements or aircraft specific payment provisions.

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2. The area of work should be described in terms of: scale of area, general topography, elevation, slope, vegetation, and accessibility by roads or off-road vehicles, land use restrictions for mechanized equipment, etc.

3. Aviation Regulations -Acceptable Language:

“The Contractor shall comply with all applicable federal, state, and local regulations.”

4. Airspace Coordination:

In areas of military airspace, it is acceptable to describe any Forest Service coordination agreements with military airspace scheduling or range control authorities and that it is the contractors’ responsibility to coordinate their activities with the scheduling office. Close coordination is necessary to ensure compliance with applicable airspace coordination agreements that states have with military authorities.

5. Aircraft Equipment Specifications - Delete all reference to aircraft/equipment

a. Acceptable Language : Suggested example clause: “...Contractor is required to demonstrate to the government that the application equipment can be calibrated and will evenly distribute the designated seed at rates specified in the Project Area Narratives.”

6. Radio/Communication Requirements - Acceptable Language:

“Contractor shall provide a communication system so that contractor personnel engaged in the project at different locations can communicate at all times with each other, and so that government Project Inspectors may communicate with the contractor at any time to discuss performance matters.” (The government VHF-FM radio system may have to be described.)

7. Application validation: Marking/GPS - Acceptable Language:

“Application equipment will be capable of physically marking or electronically mapping application routes to ensure that seed/fertilizer is applied evenly and completely and at the specified rates.”

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8. Transporting, Passengers and Equipment - Acceptable Language:

“Only approved contractor personnel, contractor equipment and government-provided equipment required for performance will be transported by contractor vehicles, trailers, animals, or equipment.”

9. Safety Hazards - Acceptable Language:

“Any ground or aerial hazards that would pose a danger to Contractor’s personnel or operating equipment must be identified and mitigated by the Contractor prior to commencing operations”.

10.Aircraft Use Reporting - Acceptable Language:

Do not mention or require flight hour/aircraft usage reports.

3.10.2 End Product Project Management

1. Operational Control:

During the performance of End Product contracts, Forest Service will not exercise operational control of the aircraft in any way.

a. Forest/Area personnel will not direct the contractor as to flight profiles, flight following, landing areas (Except for areas that are off limits due to land management restrictions), fueling/loading procedures, use of personal protective equipment, etc.

b. Forest/Area personnel assigned to administer End Product contracts will have no aviation management responsibility or authority. Any directions to the contractor must be in terms of the service or end-result being specified; e.g. desired seed application coverage, number, and disposition of logs, etc.

c. It is acceptable for Unit Aviation Officer or Columbia Dispatch to inform military airspace scheduling authorities that the contractor plans on performing work during specified time periods and provide the military authorities the contractor contact information.

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d. Columbia Dispatch will not perform the airspace scheduling service for the contractor.

2. Passengers or Aircrew

Forest/Area personnel are not allowed to board any aircraft that is being provided by the contractor during performance of the End Product contract.

Forest/Area personnel must not become involved in any way with aircraft ground operations such as take-off and landing areas, loading, fueling, etc.

3. Aircraft Incidents and Accidents

The decision to use an end-product contract removes the Forest Service from having operational control, thereby placing accountability for any aircraft accident with the operator/contractor.

4. Operations within Military Airspace

If an “End Product” project using aircraft is being conducted within Special Use Airspace(MTR: IR -343 IR-344,IR-346, VR-1355) it is the responsibility of the contractor to coordinate with the Special Use Airspace Scheduling Office. Unit Aviation Officer will inform Forest Service Contracting Officers and CORs of any Special Use Airspace near the End Product project area. The Forest Service Contracting Officers and COR will be responsible for informing the Contractors of the Special Use Airspace. Unit Aviation Officer or Columbia Dispatch may contact the Scheduling Office to alert them of the project and general time frames and provide contractor contact information.

5. Aircraft Flight Following

Aircraft operating on End Product contracts shall not be tracked through Dispatch. However; dispatch will be kept aware of these operations to avoid airspace conflicts, and provide this information to other aircraft operating in the boundaries of the Forests/NSA.

Appendix: 10.5 End Product Form

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3.11 Supplemental Fire Aircraft AcquisitionSee FS- NASMP and NW/AK AP

3.12 Cooperator Aircraft

The use of other public agency aircraft must be pre-approved by the Regional Aviation Officer. This is typically done by the issuance of a letter of approval for Federal use. In the local area this would apply to the State of Washington Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and State of Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) aircraft (Fixed-wing & Helicopter). Proposed use of these aircraft should be requested through the FAO to the RAO. Any employee wishing to ride on cooperator aircraft or work around a cooperator aircraft operation must consult their respective aviation manager.

Cooperator agreements for all aviation services provided to the Forest Service by other agencies and cooperators must specify levels of operational standards and safety comparable to those required of agency or contractor operations (FSM 5710.35).

When the Forest Service utilizes other governmental agency aircraft for non-fire missions, an agreement shall be created and at a minimum address:

Payment Operational Control Aircraft Management Performance Planning Mission Profile Landing Zones (When Applicable) Agreement Expiration Date Public /Civil Aircraft Utilization Dispatch Work Sheet (Public Law 103-411) Completed cost analysis Complete Project Aviation Safety Plan (PASP)

Fire Missions: Create a resource order.

Military and cooperator aircraft approval shall meet the requirements in the FSM 5713.43.

Appendix: 10.6 Public/Civil Aircraft Utilization Dispatch Worksheet (Public Law 103 - 411)

3.13 Aircraft Administrative Use and Reporting

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Authorization and documentation of administrative flights will be in accordance with the Administrative Aircraft Use Plan in the Pacific Northwest/Alaska Aviation Safety and Management Plan. See Section 5.7 (Flight Planning) for additional information.

3.14 Dispatching

Columbia Dispatch is the ordering point for all aircraft requests. The UAO and Columbia Dispatch staff is the only personnel authorized to procure aircraft for the three units. Columbia Dispatch will contact vendors and order /schedule and track all aircraft flight activities.

3.14.1 Administrative Flights

Passengers will contact Columbia Dispatch for assistance with the completion of required cost comparisons and/or authorization documentation in accordance with Administrative Aircraft Use Policies. Aviation users should be prepared to provide the following information:

Passengers by names, weights, and weight of cargo. Identification of designated Flight Manager. Requested flight date(s) and time(s). Point of flight departure, pick up points, and final destination. Identify whether the flight is one way or round trip. Accounting charge numbers, Job Code (s). A Day Trip authorization (5700-12) form approved by a Line Officer for any

non-federal passenger(s)

Flight requests should be placed at the earliest possible time to allow for adequate ordering and flight planning time. Columbia Dispatch office will provide the ordering person with a flight confirmation as soon as final arrangements have been made. Unless agency flight following is being utilized (optional), the pilot shall file an FAA flight plan, and shall notify dispatch upon departure, and upon reaching final destination.

3.14.2 Lead Plane Use

Administrative Flights utilizing PNW fleet aircraft will be coordinated through the NWCC Aircraft Desk.

3.14.3 Project Flights

Selection and procurement of CWN aviation resources is a responsibility of the forest dispatch organization, and they should be notified of an impending procurement as early in the process as possible to identify scheduling conflicts (resource availability) and assist with cost analysis or other planning details.

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Project flights are typically covered by a PASP which should be shared with the Columbia Dispatch during the development phase to provide scheduling dispatchers the opportunity to assist in the development, or review process for specifics such as frequency assignments, Latitude and Longitude, and MTR or boundary issue identification.

At the point of UAO formal review, a final copy of all PASP’s will be provided to the Columbia Dispatch office as a final notification the project can go forward.

3.14.4 Tactical Aircraft, and Emergency Flights

All aircraft involved in fire support mission will be ordered/dispatched through Columbia Dispatch office in accordance with Chapter 20 of the NICC, NWCC or Unit Mobilization Guide or as otherwise specified in dispatch office supplemental operating plans. When a scheduling conflict occurs between administrative use, mission use, and emergencies, the emergency shall take precedence.

For initial attack responses, aircraft needs are established through preplanned dispatch block cards, IC/on-scene requests, and the decision authority of the supervisory dispatcher. Columbia Dispatch will alert the aircraft manager an impending fire or emergency dispatch, as soon as possible, with any information available at that time, and fax or email information in the form of a resource order or a Tactical Aircraft Order Form.

Columbia Dispatch is available to assist in the flight planning process, by acquiring and assembling essential aviation safety related information, the most important of these being:

a. Identification of Airspace Hazards: Identify all known aerial hazards within the incident operational area, including power lines, towers, other responding agency aircraft, and determining if the mission will be near administrative unit boundaries, or within any special use military airspace (MOA’s/MTR’s). Note: A plotting check on the Unit’s Hazard Map should be made for each incident supported by aircraft.

b. Confirmation of Communications: Identify and confirm the assigned Flight Following (Command), and Air-to-Air, and Air-to-Ground (Tactical) frequencies assigned to the incident or area of operation. Note: Boundary fire communication procedures should receive special emphasis in the local area.

c. Check Navigational Information: Obtain verification of navigational information, i.e. GPS coordinates, legal description, geographic place name(s) etc., prior to providing the information to aircrews. Note: A plotting check on the dispatch map or in established dispatch software should be made in each instance.

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3.14.5 Summary of Requirements and Approval for Passenger Air Transport

Appendix: 10.7- Summary of Requirements and Approval for Passenger Air Transport.

3.15 Flight Use Reporting

The COR and/or dispatch will review/submit flight invoices. (See Aviation Business System (ABS) @ www.fs.fed.us/business/abs) The Dispatcher and/or Flight Manager will be responsible for logging start and stop times for each flight for verification of flight invoices on detection and local recon flights. The COR, UAO, and Aircraft Pilot Inspector are responsible for informing all contract and rental agreement pilots of payment procedures. Payments will be made upon receipt of the invoices. Contracts will follow the payment procedures specified in the Prompt Payment Act.

3.16 Coding and Funding of Contract, Fleet, Severity Aircraft AvailabilitySee FS- NASMP and NW/AK AP

3.17 Working Capital Fund (WCF) (Fleet Aircraft)See FS- NASMP and NW/AK AP

3.18 Federal Excess Property Program (FEPP)See FS- NASMP and NW/AK AP

3.19 Financial Business Management System (FMBS)See FS- NASMP and NW/AK AP

3.20 Program Reviews

Base/Program reviews are a core function of aviation program quality assurance, allowing national and regional program managers to observe and assess field operations to which they provide support and oversight. They also promote field level adherence to safe procedures and standards.

Base review site visits are open to any Forest Line and Staff Officers who wishes to participate or sit in. Findings and action items are identified using standardized checklists which are summarized and shared with the forest Line and Staff and Regional Aviation Officer via formal correspondence from the program manager conducting the review.

The Forests/NSA receives formal regional reviews for the following Programs/Bases:

Troutdale Airtanker Base - Annual base review (site visit), coordinated by the PNW Airtanker Base Specialist.

Forest Aviation Program (CGF, GPF, MHF– A component of forest level F&AM program reviews, coordinated by SORO F&AM Staff on a Triennial basis.

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3.21 New Program RequestsSee FS- NASMP and NW/AK AP

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Chapter 4 – Aviation Safety Management Systems

4.1 General

The Aviation Safety Program is based on risk management controls, evaluations, operating standards, and proactive accident prevention. The focus is on maintaining personnel safety through training, hazard identification, mitigation controls, and accident prevention. The responsibility for aviation safety oversight at the Area/forest level ultimately lies with the Area manager and each Forest Supervisor who in turn, delegates that responsibility to the Unit Aviation Officer. These responsibilities include direct supervision, training, and providing safe working conditions. Aviation management and operations plans and Project Aviation Safety Plans (PASP) define the proactive accident prevention measures and risk management procedures to integrate into all aviation operations.

Each Area/Forest employee and contractor involved with aviation has the responsibility to plan missions thoroughly, conduct missions with a conservative attitude, and respects the aircraft and environment in which they are operating.

4.2 Safety Management Systems (SMS)

The SMS serves to structure the Area/Forest existing safety initiatives and provides a review process for how well those initiatives function. Safety is a system that incorporates a proactive approach to using hazard identification and risk management in all phases of an aviation operation and programs. The SMS has four major components: policy, risk management, assurance and promotion.

4.3 Safety Policy Aviation management policies describe: authorities, responsibilities, acceptable operating practices and administrative procedures. All aviation safety standards and policy requirements identified in the FS- NASMP and NW/AK AP must be followed.

4.4 Risk Management

Risk management is a decision-making process. All personnel involved in an operation should have a part in risk management. Those at the ground level are ideally situated to identify hazards and determine their risk. They can also recommend to the decision maker the appropriate controls. The process of managing risks makes operations safer without compromising the mission. The following information is provided to assist in the process of risk management.

Risk Management follows a five-step cyclic process that must be integrated into the decision making process at all levels. The five steps are as follows (see IHOG 3-3, for Risk Management Applied):

1. Identify Hazards2. Assess Hazards

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3. Implement Controls (mitigations)4. Make Risk Decision5. Supervise

In keeping with the steps above, a thorough review of the completed System Safety Risk Assessments applicable to the planned mission(s) must be conducted and all hazards mitigated in like or appropriate manner. The hazards and mitigations listed in the Aviation Program Risk Assessments are thorough but incomplete. Each project will likely have additional hazards that must be identified, assessed, and mitigated. Then the risks must be weighed against the expected benefit of performing the operation.

Risk Management Instructions: To conduct a complete Risk Analysis for your project;1. Review and utilize the applicable System Safety data available at: http://www.fs.fed.us/fire/av_safety/Systems_Safety/av_risk_mgt/index.html 2. Implement the mitigations as listed in the System Safety Assessments. 3. Complete and follow the reminder lists below. 4. Conduct your individual analysis of the project following the five steps above and utilizing the Risk Assessment Matrix provided in this document. System Safety has predetermined values, but, as mentioned above, each project will present its own specific hazards that you must identify, mitigate, and manage.

RISK ASSESMENT MATRIXSEVERITY

LIKELIHOOD NegligibleIV

MarginalIII

CriticalII

CatastrophicI

FrequentProbable High 4Occasional Serious 3Remote Medium2Improbable Low 1

-Steps 1 & 2: Identify and describe the hazards present for this project. Assess the Likelihood of an occurrence of each hazard and determine the potential Severity of the outcome by referring to the definitions at the System Safety Matrix site. Click on this link: http://www.fs.fed.us/fire/av_safety/Systems_Safety/av_risk_mgt/matrix.pdf and then click the link to the Risk Assessment Matrix.Once you have identified the likelihood and severity, determine the Risk Level using the matrix above.-Step 3: Identify the mitigation controls to follow that will reduce the Likelihood of a hazard occurrence. **Remember, the severity will likely remain the same as first determined. The mitigations generally only affect the likelihood of an occurrence. Once you have established the mitigations and changed the likelihood, determine the post-mitigation Risk Level.

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Total Risk Assessment Value (The highest risk level identified from the System Safety Assessments and the above determined risks shall be applied as the overall total risk

value):

Low Medium Serious High

Step 4: Make Risk Decision – weigh the risk against the benefit of performing the operation. From the determined overall risk, a determination must be made to conduct the operation as planned, apply further controls that may reduce the overall risk further, or not to perform the operation.Appendix: 10-15 -Aviation Risk Management Workbook

4.5 Assurance

Aviation program activities will be monitored by the UAO for safety, cost effectiveness, suitability (as a means of mission accomplishment), and for planning and training for future projects. Follow-up on mission effectiveness will be conducted by the UAO with assistance from the appropriate program manager. An annual program review with Forest Supervisor involvement is strongly encouraged. Changes in the program will be made as necessary. These changes will be forwarded to the District Aviation Officers and if necessary, training will be conducted related to these changes. The manual and handbooks will be reviewed a minimum of annually and this plan will be amended to reflect supplements or revisions to the manual or handbooks referenced in this document.

4.5.1 Aviation Safety and Technical Assistance Team (ASTAT)See FS- NASMP and NW/AK AP

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Describe Hazard:Pre-Mitigation hazards rate out as:

Likelihood Severity RiskLevel

Mitigation Controls:Post-Mitigation hazards rate out as:

Likelihood Severity RiskLevel

4.5.2 Aviation Safety Communiqué - SAFECOM Any condition, observance, maintenance problem, act, or circumstance which has the potential to cause an aviation-related mishap should be reported via the SAFECOM system. Anyone involved with Forest Aviation operations may file a report at any time.

4.5.3 Aircraft Accident Investigation ProcessAll aircraft Incidents, Incidents with Potential, and Accidents will be reported immediately to Unit Aviation Officer or Dispatch, or in the case of an incident to the AOBD or IC, as appropriate. In the case of Accidents or Incidents with Potential, the UAO or acting will be notified immediately by Dispatch or aircraft manager, regardless of the time of day. The Forest employee most directly involved with the incident will be responsible to file a SAFECOM with the Regional Aviation Safety and Training Manager and the UAO as soon as possible.

4.5.4 Project Aviation Safety Planning (PASP)All non-fire suppression projects (mission type of flight) require project planning prior to implementation. The level of planning and approval depends on complexity and scale of the project and level of risk. Fire suppression aviation operations are documented in the Unit Aviation Plan.

PASP’s and Risk Assessments will be reviewed and approved before implementation at the appropriate level based on the final risk level of the SMS Risk Assessment and Mitigation Worksheet.

At least two weeks of advanced notice is normally required for most non-fire PASPs to be developed, reviewed, and disseminated to the appropriate personnel for review, and approval.

A Line Officer is responsible for reviewing Project Aviation Safety Plans and signing/approving the Plan only when he or she satisfied that the hazards and mitigations identified in the Risk Assessment are thoroughly described and documented. In addition, the RAO is responsible for reviewing PASPs.

The signatory approval of a PASP cannot be reassigned to someone who does not have a written letter of Line Officer delegation on file. By signing a PASP, the Line Officer is certifying that he/she finds that the remaining level of “residual” risk after mitigations are in place to be acceptable, and that the benefits of allowing the mission to proceed outweigh that residual risk which cannot be mitigated.

Line Officers are entitled to do a thorough briefing with the UAM or UAO and are also encouraged to consult with the Flight Manager, Project Leader, RASM or the RAO if there is any uncertainty.

Table below illustrate the review and approval level required for common flight activities, and although not specifically required, a project specific PASP or Mission Risk Assessment should always be considered, if planning time permits.

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Appropriate Management Level for Operational Risk DecisionsRisk Level Fire Project

High Incident Commander or Operations Section Chief

Line Officer/Manager

Serious Incident Commander or Operations Section Chief

Line Officer/Manager

Medium Air Operations Branch Director Project Aviation ManagerLow Base Manager Helicopter or Flight

Manager

This plan constitutes authority to perform most fire suppression, and some non-fire aviation activities without submission of a project-specific aviation safety plan (PASP).

Activities approved under thisAviation Plan.

Activities requiring submittal of a PASP to the UAO.

Activities in which submittal of a PASP to the Region for review/approval is required.

Fire Suppression and support Activities

Administrative Use-Travel Aerial Detection/Fire

Reconnaissance Search and Rescue

(Immediate Response)

RAWS and Radio Maintenance

Aerial Ignition Resource

Reconnaissance CWN Helicopter

Operations Natural Reconnaissance

Any new, unique, or first time projects not listed in columns one or two.

Any project requiring or proposing modification to the airframe, avionics, or power plant.

Flights with cooperators or contractors

Aerial Application Law Enforcement (Special

Mission’s) High Complexity External loads-

Helicopter

Appendix: 10.13 Project Aviation Safety Plan-Example

4.6 PromotionSee FS- NASMP and NW/AKAP

4.7 National Fire and Aviation Operations Alert SystemSee FS- NASMP and NW/AKAP

4.8 Unit Hazards Maps

The Aviation Officer is responsible for the development and updating of the Unit’s aviation hazard map. The map is updated annually or as needed. An Aviation hazard

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map will be maintained at each air operations facility for briefing in-coming flight crews. Include the following on the hazard maps:

a. Power lines.b. Telephone lines (around landing areas).c. Aerial logging and/or high line cable operations.d. High bridges.e. Lookout towers.f. Microwave towers.g. Military low level training routes (MTR).h. Restricted and/or prohibited areas.i. Military Operations Areas (MOA's).k. Wind turbine towers

(Note: On special projects, a larger scale hazard map of the project area should be used showing: hazards, alternate landing areas, private land boundaries, etc.)

4.9 Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): (FSM 5716.31)

Personnel participating in low-level flights (below 500 feet above ground level excluding takeoff and landing) shall wear the personal protective equipment specified in this section at all times during such flights.

All Aircraft. Shirt and trousers or one-piece flying suit made of fire-resistant cloth that overlaps gloves and footgear when the individual is in the sitting position is required. Gloves must be leather or other fire-resistant material. Single-engine airtanker pilots are required to wear leather boots.

Helicopters. Nomex clothing (fire resistant shirt, pants or one-piece flight suit) that overlaps gloves and foot gear when the individual is in the sitting position are required. Gloves must be leather or other fire-resistant material. Refer to the Interagency Helicopter Operations Guide (IHOG), Chapter 9 for more detail on clothing and flight helmet requirements.

ATGS Operations and Fire Reconnaissance: Leather shoes or boots and natural fiber shirt, full length cotton or nomex pants or flight suit are required. See Interagency Standards for Fire and Fire Aviation Operations (Red Book), Chapter 16, Aviation Operations.

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Chapter 5 – Aviation Operations5.1 GeneralAs a multi unit organization, we are challenged with high-risk aerial environments that are ever changing. Each employee, interagency partner, and contractor is responsible for conducting aerial operations that are well planned and approved by organization line Officers. Aviation Users are required to provide the appropriate management commensurate with the types of contracts they utilize. That includes support staff for the various functions such as Airtanker/Air bases, and resource project flights.

5.2 Operational Manuals, Handbooks, and Guides

A list of all of the Forest Service aviation policy documents can be found in the FSM 5703.

5.2.1 Manuals

FSM 5700 Aviation ManagementAeronautical Information ManualTitle 14 CFRApplicable Federal Aviation Regulations (FARs)

5.2.2 Handbooks

FSH 5709.16 Aviation Management and Operation HandbookFSH 5309.11Law Enforcement HandbookForest Service Fire & Aviation Qualifications Guide (FSFAQG).FSH 6709.11 Health & Safety Code HandbookInteragency Aviation Transport of Hazardous Materials HandbookMilitary Use Handbook

5.2.3 Plans

Forest Service National Aviation Safety and Management PlanPacific Northwest and Alaska Aviation Safety and Management PlanOPSPLAN Smoky ( Oregon National Guard Operating Plan)

5.2.4 Guides

Accident Investigation GuideAircraft Identification GuideColumbia Cascade Communication Center Mobilization Guide GSA Federal Property Management Regulation (FPMR) 101-37National Interagency Mobilization Guide National Retardant Requirements Contract Northwest Area Mobilization Guide North American Emergency Response Guidebook (DOT) Pacific Northwest Interagency Aviation Orientation Guide

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Pacific Northwest Aviation Frequency Guide Professional Helicopter Pilot GuideNASF Cooperators Aviation Standards for Interagency Fire Cooperator Standards GuideOffice of Management and Budget (OMB) Circulars A-76, A-123, A-126USFS/BLM Aviation Risk Management WorkbookUSFS Aviation Safety Management System (SMS) GuideUSFS National Law Enforcement and Investigations (LEI) Short-Haul and Hoist (S-H/H) Guide

5.2.5 Interagency GuidesSee FS- NASMP

5.3 Public/Civil Aircraft OperationsSee FS- NASMP

Civil AircraftSee FS- NASMP

Public AircraftSee FS- NASMP

5.4 Employees on Non-Forest Service AircraftSee FS- NASMP

5.5 Emergency Exception to Policy

Federal employees who are involved in an event in which there clearly exists an imminent threat to human life, and there is insufficient time to utilize approved methods, may deviate from policy to the extent necessary to preserve life.

The following provisions and follow-up actions apply: Personnel involved in the decision making associated with deviating from policy

must weigh the risks verses benefit, must have an adequate understanding and knowledge of the mission risk, or contact an individual that does if practical.

Any deviations shall be documented on a SAFECOM. Requires Line Officer (District Ranger, Forest Supervisor, etc) to authorize each

flight. Refer to FSM 5713.53.

5.6 Flight Planning

The following procedures will be utilized to plan all non-commercial point-to-point and special use missions for both fire and land resource management projects. All requests for flight services (other than scheduled commercial airlines) require the

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completion and submission of an Aircraft Flight Request/Schedule (Form 9400-1a). Columbia Dispatch or unit aviation manager will assist you in completing the form.

The Aviation users/Requester will provide the following flight request information.

purpose of flight type of aircraft needed (If Known) dates and times of flight passenger names Charge Code cost limitations All flight require supervisor approval/signature.

Flight requests shall be submitted to Columbia Dispatch or unit aviation officer at least 7 days prior to proposed flight date. Mission /special Uses flight require 14 days. This allows time for the development and approval of a Project Aviation Safety Plan (PASP).Appendix 10.8 Aircraft Flight Planning Flow Chart

Point-to-Point See FS- NASMP and NW/AK AP

FAA Flight PlansSee FS- NASMP and NW/AK AP

Agency Flight PlansSee FS- NASMP and NW/AK AP

5.7 Flight Following

Flight following is the responsibility of the scheduling office until the flight is terminated or transferred through positive and documented hand-off to an en-route or receiving office. Flight following procedures, check-ins, and actions will be documented on Form 9400-1a, blocks 4 and 5, resource orders, in WILDCAD or on radio logs. Deviations from flight plans are allowed only for weather or safety-related reasons All flights with in the Columbia Dispatch area will be flight followed utilizing one or more of the methods listed below.

Radio flight following (RFF) is required for aircraft not equipped or have AFF malfunction. Aircraft shall check-in with Columbia Dispatch every 15 minutes and provide the following a written agency flight plan utilizing radio check-ins with Columbia Dispatch at 15-minute intervals. Each check-in will state current position, heading and intentions.

Automated flight following (AFF) is utilized when an aircraft conducts its initial check-in with Columbia Dispatch to confirm that AFF tracking is established. Columbia

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Dispatch will then monitor the flight status, logging the aircraft position, Speed, Altitude and heading every 15 minutes. If AFF tracking signal is lost, dispatch will revert to the standard radio tracking and establish contact on the standard flight following frequency or air guard. Any flight that cannot maintain AFF or radio flight following will terminate the flight at the earliest opportunity.

Transit Aircraft switching their flight following to another forest will first establish contact with the adjacent forest prior to signing off Columbia Dispatch frequencies. This is needed to ensure that the other forest can be contacted and know they are to flight follow before terminating that service from the Columbia Dispatch.

Initial Attack Incident Aircraft flight following will be coordinated between Columbia Dispatch and incident aerial supervision aircraft. Columbia Dispatch will maintain following responsibility until aerial supervision arrives over the incident at which time Columbia Dispatch and ATGS will determine and agree on flight following protocols. Columbia Dispatch will utilizes AFF protocols for tracking incident aircraft.

Incident Management Team (IMT) will be responsible for flight following incident aircraft. Tracking of aircraft to and from project fires will be a joint venture between Columbia Dispatch and IMT’s and the Air Operations Branch Director.

Local (on-Site) Flight Following-Helicopter: A helicopter that is making repeated takeoffs and landings in a localized area may have someone at the site, or close by, perform flight following. Columbia Dispatch must be notified in advance and approve of this arrangement. Helibase will notify Columbia Dispatch when helicopter start and end. On-site written documentation of flight following should be maintained.

5.8 Radio Frequency Management/Communications

Aircraft ordered for NSA/Forest use through the Columbia Dispatch must be able to communicate on National Flight Following Frequency and NSA/Forests primary frequencies. They will monitor the published Common Traffic Advisory Frequency (CTAF) on take-off and landing, and the assigned air-to-air frequency for the area of operation. Air Guard will be monitored during all mission flights. Aircraft may be assigned an alternate frequency to flight follow for a specific incidents/projects, then return to the primary frequency for the ferry flight home.

5.8 .1 Columbia Cascade Communication Center Frequency Guide

Appendix 10.9 Columbia Cascade Communication Center Frequency Guide

5.9 Latitude and Longitude FormatsIn order to reduce the possibility of dispatching of aerial resources to incorrect locations, ensure that all units identify the format in which latitude and longitude is being communicated. Latitude and longitude may be communicated in three formats:

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A. Degrees Decimal Degree (seldom used) 48.3612°N 114.0812°WB. Degrees Decimal Minutes (aka) Degrees

Minutes Decimal Minutes or Degrees Minutes Tenths) Aircraft mounted GPS units Contracts FAA documents such as airport guides

48°36.12’N 114°08.12’W

C. Degrees Minutes Seconds (many maps) ROSS National Mobilization Guide TFR requests forms

48°36’12”N 114°08’12”W

There is also a format specific to the National Mobilization Guide, for requesting TFRs, which is an exception to the above formats. An example would be 483612N/1140812W (uses no punctuation at all with degrees, minutes and seconds).

5.10 Overdue or Missing Aircraft

If an aircraft misses a 15-minute check –in call or its AFF icon turns RED, Columbia Dispatch will immediately start attempts at re-establishing contact by way of radio calls. If aircraft does not respond, Columbia Dispatch will follow the timeline considerations listed below and initiate the Unit Aviation Mishap Response Guide procedures.

An aircraft will be considered “overdue” when it fails to arrive within 30 minutes past the estimated time of arrival and cannot be located.

An aircraft will be considered “missing” when the elapsed time exceeds its fuel & reserve capacity for continued operation.

5.11 Aviation Mishap Response Guide

The Unit Aviation Officer is responsible for annually updating the local Aviation Mishap Response Guide. In addition, the UAO will provide each fire management office, airbase, Columbia Dispatch, Aviation Project Leaders, and incoming Incident Management Team/s a current copy of the Unit’s Aviation Mishap guide. These individuals’ are responsible for understanding and implementing the procedures outlined in the unit’s aviation mishap guide.Appendix 10.3-Aviation Mishap Response Guide

5.12 PassengersSee FS- NASMP and NW/AK AP

5.13 Transportation of Hazardous MaterialsSee FS- NASMP and NW/AK AP

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5.14 Invasive Species Control

Invasive aquatic species can easily be transported between lakes streams and reservoirs by the aerial water dispensing aircraft we utilize today. Therefore, it is important to educate our aircrews and aircraft managers on the preventive measures associated with the contamination and spreading aquatic nuisance species (ANS).Current information concerning cleaning solutions can be found at this web site: http://www.fs.fed.us/rm/fire/wfcs/index.htm

5.15 Fire Chemicals and Aerial Application Policy near Waterways

For operational guidelines on use of fire chemicals, refer to Interagency Standards for Fire and Fire Aviation Operations, Chapter 12 in the Interagency Standards for Fire and Fire Aviation Operations Handbook.

Any time there is a deliberate or accidental aerial application of fire retardants and suppressants (gels and foams) in waterways or inside the 300-foot buffer zone, the Incident Commander or zone fire management officer will promptly report the incident to the local resource manager and Forest Fire Staff. The information including reporting form and instructions, are posted on the web site at: http://www.fs.fed.us/rm/fire/wfcs/report.htm.

5.16 Search and Rescue (SAR)

Local county sheriff offices are responsible for search and rescue of overdue or missing person(s), depending on the legislative jurisdiction of National Forest System lands.

In emergencies, such as search and rescue or medical evacuation, Forest Service employees may need to ride in unapproved public agency, military, commercial, or private aircraft. The employee's District Ranger, Forest Supervisor, NSA Manager, or other line officer may authorize each flight, and document it on Form FS-5700-14, Aviation Safety Communiqué (SAFECOM) Report. As soon as possible, inform Dispatch and the UAO. All Forest Service aircraft used for search and rescue missions will be ordered through Columbia Dispatch and coordinated by the Unit Aviation Officer and local Law Enforcement. Search and rescue procedures are outlined in each organization Search and Rescue Plan.

5.17 Large Airtanker Operations

Airtankers are commonly used within the Forests/NSA boundary forests, and fire personnel trained on the safe and efficient utilization of the resource. Aerial Supervision will be requested simultaneously with any request for Larger Airtankers, regardless of fire situation or incident complexity. IC’s and other incident personnel must recognize that Large Airtankers cannot be specifically assigned (committed) to

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an incident by N#, due to contract specified Large Airtanker Rotation Policy. Fire line supervisors must be prepared to adequately brief all airtanker resources.

5.17.1 Very Large Airtanker (VLAT) Operations See FS- NASMP and NW/AK AP

5.17.2 Airtanker Base PersonnelSee FS- NASMP and NW/AK AP

5.17.3 Non-Federally Approved Airtankers:

Non-Federally Approved Airtankers, e.g. airtankers contracted by the Oregon Department of Forestry, may be used if a wildfire on National Forest lands is threatening life and property, and no federally approved airtanker is available to meet the timeframes needed to address the fire.

Once the decision is made to use the unapproved airtanker, the LO must call the Regional duty officer and let them know about the use. The duty officer will then attempt to re-assign federal airtanker as soon as possible, document the use for future budget questions, and notify the National Office. To help mitigate the use of unapproved airtanker, the LO should forewarn the Regional duty officer of the pending need to allow them time to re-assign federally approved airtanker.

5.18 SEAT OperationsSee FS- NASMP and NW/AK AP

5.19 Aerial Supervision Operations

Ensure effective aerial supervision and timely mission accomplishment by qualified individuals for all aircraft flying over an incident. This table summarizes interagency aviation supervision requirements and guidelines for when aerial supervision is needed on an incident.Appendix 10.10- Aerial Supervision Guidelines

5.19.1 Aerial Supervision PersonnelSee FS- NASMP and NW/AK AP

5.20 Helicopter Operations

All helicopters operations within the Columbia Cascade Units will be ordered and dispatched by the Columbia Cascade Communication Center. Policy requires a helicopter manager be assigned to each flight. When a scheduling conflict occurs between administrative use and emergency use, the emergency shall take precedence.

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Helicopter landing areas will be planned according to IHOG chapter 8, and the Unit Aviation Officer or a qualified Helicopter Manager and the pilot prior to use will approve helibases. They will have the following equipment; wind indicator, fire extinguisher, safety signs, adequate communications, and dust abatement as necessary.

5.20.1 Helitack See FS- NASMP and NW/AK AP

5.20.2 RappelSee FS- NASMP and NW/AK AP

5.20.3 Cargo LetdownSee FS- NASMP and NW/AK AP

5.20.4 Short-Haul and Hoist (Law Enforcement and Investigations ONLY)See FS- NASMP and NW/AK AP

5.20.5 Helicopter Screening and Evaluation BoardSee FS- NASMP

5.20.6 CWN Helicopter Management

Call-When –Needed Helicopter Management

Helicopter Type

Helicopter Category

Helicopter

Manager

Helicopter Crew Member

(HECM)Required

NumberOf Qualified

HECM

1 Standard Yes Yes 4

1 Limited/Restrict Yes NONE

2 Standard Yes Yes 3

2 Limited/Restrict Yes NONE

3 Standard Yes Yes 2

3 Limited/Restrict Yes NONE

5.21 Aerial Ignition OperationsAerial ignition operations and projects are accomplished in accordance with the Interagency Aerial Ignition Guide.

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5.22 Wild Horse and Burro OperationsSee FS- NASMP and NW/AK AP

5.23 Aerial Capture, Eradication, and Tagging of Animals (ACETA)See FS- NASMP and NW/AK AP

5.24 Smokejumper OperationsSee FS- NASMP and NW/AK AP

5.25 Light Fixed Wing OperationsSee FS- NASMP and NW/AK AP

5.25.1 Reconnaissance or Patrol FlightsSee FS- NASMP and NW/AK AP

5.25.2 Single Engine Instrument Meteorological Conditions and Night FlightSee FS- NASMP and NW/AKAP

5.25.3 Backcountry Airstrips OperationsSee FS- NASMP and NW/AK AP

5.26 Law Enforcement and Investigations (LEI) OperationsSee FS- NASMP and NW/AK AP

5.27 Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) See FS- NASMP and NW/AK AP

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Chapter 6 – Aviation Training6.1 Aviation Training for All Flight Activities and Positions

Aviation training should be addressed in all employees Individual Development Plans. See the Interagency Aviation Training Guide for education, qualification, and currency requirements and for position descriptions and required modules.

Required training and experience requirements for fire related aviation positions can be found in the Wildland Fire Qualifications Subsystem Guide, 310-1 and Forest Service Fire & Aviation Qualification Guide (FS-FAQG). It is the policy of the Columbia Cascade Units that all aviation trainees meet agency standards.

Fire operations personnel at or above the Division Supervisor or ICT3 level are encouraged to reinforce their aviation tactical and logistical skills. Firefighters occupying these positions are encouraged to attend Interagency Aviation Training (IAT), Intermediate Air Operations (S-370), and Interagency Airspace Coordination.

6.2 Responsibility

UAO’s are responsible for completing the IAT needs survey with consolidated data for their specific unit. The Unit Aviation Officer or each District/Forest Training Officer will:

Ensure local units have the necessary current training materials to meet the unit‘s training needs.

Monitor when employees are due for any required/refresher training and workshops for maintaining position currency. Ensure employees complete all required refresher training to maintain currency (i.e. A-200 annually, B-3 and/or M-3 every three years, Aviation COR training, etc.)

Ensures that NWCG aviation courses and IAT training is presented by qualified IAT or NWCG instructors.

6.3 Instructor StandardsSee FS- NASMP and NW/AK AP

6.4 Records Management

All employee training records shall meet the requirements stated in the Forest Service Fire and Aviation Qualification Guide for all NWCG qualifications. Training records for non-fire qualifications (IAT) shall either reside with the Training Officer or the Unit Aviation Officer. Each operating unit needs to develop and implement plans for the identification of initial and recurrent aviation training needs specific to its missions. Areas of aviation training are:

Orientation and basic aviation safety for all users Flight Manager Training Dispatching and flight-following procedures Management of aviation operations and equipment

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Planning, risk assessment and execution of projects using aviation resources

Proficiency and special mission training for pilots Technical training on aviation equipment and aircraft maintenance Advanced safety management systems (SMS) and quality assurance for

aviation professionals and specialists

6.5 Tuition and TravelSee FS- NASMP and NW/AK AP

6.6 DevelopmentSee FS- NASMP and NW/AK AP

6.7 IAT/NWCG Crosswalk

NWCG Crosswalk to IAT Project Aviation Positions

NWCG / FS-FAQG*

Employed Daily Position IAT Project Qualification

HECM or Smokejumper, Pilot, IR Technician, Recon, Detection

= Aircrew Member

IADP or IA & Aviation Dispatcher = Aviation Dispatcher

AOBD, ASGS,ATGS, HLCO,HEB2

or One who is currently responsible for Aviation Program oversight such as RAO. RASM, FFMO, DFFMO, UAO

= Aviation Manager

AOBS, ATGS,HLCO, HMGB or

Smokejumper Spotter. Those that have had Chief of Party Training in 2002, 2003, 2004. = Fixed-Wing Flight

Manager

AOBS, ATGS,HLCO, HMGB or Smokejumper Spotter, FHP Aerial Surveyor =

Fixed-Wing Flight Manager – Special Use

HMGB or None = Helicopter Flight Manager

HMGB or None = Helicopter Manager - Resource

None None Passenger

AOBD orUAO, Rappel Base Manager, Assistant Rappel Base Manager, Smokejumper Base Manager, Assistant Smokejumper Base Manager

= Project Aviation Manager

Appendix 10.11 Interagency Aviation Training Matrix

6.8 Aviation Contracting Officer Representative (COR) RequirementsSee FS- NASMP and NW/AK AP

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Chapter 7 – Airspace7.1 Interagency Airspace CoordinationSee FS- NASMP and NW/AK AP

7.2 Fire Traffic Area (FTA)

The FTA provides a standardized initial attack sequence structure to enhance air traffic separation over wildfire or all risk incidents. The structure emphasizes established communications, clearances, and compliances. All tactical aircraft will use the FTA process. Appendix 10.12-Fire Traffic Area Diagram

7.3 Temporary Flight Restriction (TFR) A TFR will be requested by Columbia Dispatch thru the Northwest Coordination Center for any fire having significant air activity. A TFR should be considered whenever two or more aircraft will be working a fire for a prolonged period. The Interagency Airspace Coordination Guide outlines the process to request a Temporary Flight Restriction.

7.3.1 Military Training Routes (MTRs)

The Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area , Gifford Pinchot and Mt. Hood National Forests have several Low Level Military Training Routes– MTRs (IR343,IR344, IR346/VR1355) running through middle of each lands. Columbia Dispatch will de-conflict the airspace when any projects or fire activity is occurring in the vicinity. One time crossings (point to point flights for example) will not be de-conflicted, so pilots and employees must continue to remain vigilant of other aircraft during such scenarios. The Aircraft Dispatcher will contact the identified military scheduling center to coordinate flight activities. This should be done as early as possible in a fire situation. The Interagency Airspace Coordination Guide should be followed to coordinate such operations. The Unit Aviation Officer and Dispatch Office will maintain a current copy of the AP/1B Military Training Routes Publication.

7.4 Aircraft Transponder Code (Firefighting)The FAA has provided the 1255 Transponder code as the national designation for firefighting aircraft.

7.5 Airspace Boundary Plan

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When resources are dispatched by more than one unit to an incident that shares a common boundary, care should be taken to ensure safe separation and communication of responding aircraft. Boundary Plans should be prepared that focus on a 10 NM wide “neutral airspace” corridor for mutual or exchanged initial attack area’s or zones. Agencies conducting flight activity within the boundary corridors should implement notification procedures to adjoining agencies and cooperators.Aircraft Dispatchers are responsible for assuring that agency aircraft dispatched to initial or extended attack incidents leave their bases with accurate mission information. If aircraft are crossing or working in close proximity to unit boundaries, use the following checklist.

Aviation Boundary Operation ChecklistAction YES NO

Have Neighboring dispatch centers been notified of your response?Have common frequencies been assigned to all responding aircraft?If extended attack, have dispatch centers agreed on the single order point for incident resources?Are flight crews aware of order point and flight following center?Do you have an existing TemporaryFlight restriction (TFR) on your unit?Have you notified cooperating agencies?Are there Military Training Routes (MTR) or Special-Use Airspace in the incident area?Have flight crews been informed?Aircraft will not be Dispatched until checklist has been completed and initialed by Aircraft dispatcher

7.6 Airspace Deconfliction Airspace coordination and de-confliction is a shared responsibility among ALL aviation users. The primary focus in airspace coordination is mid-air collision avoidance. Positions such as the Unit Aviation Officer, Dispatchers and on-scene Aviation personnel are all responsible for airspace coordination. Personnel involved in aviation operations shall follow all processes and procedures outlined in the Interagency Airspace Coordination Guide (IACG). Dispatch will provide the contact with the military, airspace coordinator, and the project manager.

7.7 Airspace ConflictsSee FS- NASMP and NW/AK AP

7.7.1 Mt. St. Helens Research Flights, Helicopter Logging, and End Products Operations

MT. St. Helen research flight, contracted helicopter logging, and other End Product contract operations pose a significant airspace hazard to firefighting if not reported.

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The project administrators (COTR/PI) or Special Use Individuals are responsible to provide Columbia Dispatch with the following project related information:

Name, type, and location of the project. Projected date(s) project will be conducted. Identify designated COR/PI’s name and contact information. Map of general project location, planned landing areas, and/or fueling sites. Aircraft N#’s, and frequencies being monitored. Name of contractor, and contact information.

Once received, Dispatch will update the units’ dispatch or flight hazard map. In addition, the information will provided to any pilots/aircrew briefings through the duration of the project.

7.8 Airspace Agreements – Memorandums of UnderstandingSee FS- NASMP and NW/AK AP

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Chapter 8 – Aviation Security8.1 Aviation Security

The Unit Aviation Officer is responsible for the overall Aircraft and Aviation Facility Security Program for the Columbia Cascade Units.

This is a general security plan for the Columbia Cascade Units. Units/Bases will supplement this plan with specific guidance for their individual Units/Bases. These include:

Troutdale Air Tanker Base (See TTD AT Operation Plan) Ripplebrook Helibase

8.2 Forest Service Facilities Security Risk Assessments

Security Reviews are completed yearly for the Troutdale Air Tanker base and Ripplebrook Helibase. Reviews are conduct by Base Manager, GPF/MHF Deputy Fire Staff-Operations, Unit Aviation Manager, and Forest law enforcement personnel.

8.3 Forest Service Security Response Actions

See FS- NASMP and NW/AK AP

8.4 General Aviation Security Awareness Programs

See FS- NASMP and NW/AK AP

8.5 Aircraft Security Information (Cooperators)

Aircraft should be secured at all times when left unattended. Procedures for securing the aircraft may include one or more of the following:

a. Insure cabin doors are locked.b. Use of prop locks.c. Use of security guards/law enforcement.d. Use of start-up keys (ignition).e. Use of power start disconnect switch.f. Provide 24 hour surveillance.g. Park aircraft in locked hangar.

8.6 TSA Commercial Airport Security

Commercial airport security requirements can be found at the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) web site.

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Chapter 9 – Aviation Facilities

9.1 General

All facilities managers are responsible for providing aviation facilities, within their respective area, that are safe, adequate, and are in compliance with applicable Forest Service regulations.

9.2 Permanent Aviation FacilitiesAppendix 10.2- Troutdale Air Tanker Base Plan

9.3 Temporary Aviation FacilitiesSee FS- NASMP and NW/AK AP

9.4 SafetySee FS- NASMP and NW/AK AP

9.5 Agency Owned/ Operated FacilitiesSee FS- NASMP and NW/AK AP

9.6 Agency Owned/ Operated AirstripsSee FS- NASMP and NW/AK AP

9.7 LeasingSee FS- NASMP and NW/AK AP

9.8 FundingSee FS- NASMP and NW/AK AP 9.9 Land Use AgreementsAll non area/forest airbases locations/sites require a Land use agreement be set up prior to engaging in aviation activities. 9.10 Facilities SecuritySee FS- NASMP and NW/AK AP

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10.0 Appendix

10.1 Letters of Delegations10.2 Troutdale Air Tanker Base Plan (under separate cover)10.3 Aviation Mishap Response Guide10.4 Aircrew and Incident Management Team Briefing Package (under

separate cover)10.5 End Product Form10.6 Public/Civil Aircraft Utilization Dispatch Worksheet (Public law

103-411)10.7 Summary of Requirements and Approval for Passenger Air

Transport10.8 Aircraft Flight Planning Flow Chart10.9 Columbia Cascade Communication Center Frequency Guide10.10 Aerial Supervision Guidelines10.11 Interagency Aviation Training Matrix10.12 Fire Traffic Area Diagram10.13 Project Aviation Safety Plan10.14 Pacific Northwest Interagency Aviation Contact List10.15 Aviation Risk Management Workbook

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