A training and checking system (TCS) combines people, procedures, materials, tools, equipment, facilities and software to ensure that operational safety-critical personnel are proficient in the required competencies to support an operator's air operations.
The main role of a TCS is to keep skills up to date for:
- crew members (flight crew, cabin crew, air crew, medical transport specialists, task specialists)
- other staff safety-critical to operations.
A TCS must be appropriate for the size of the operator and the nature and complexity of its operations.
Who needs a training and checking system
You need a TCS if you are a:
- Part 121, 133 or 135 operator conducting air transport operations. Your TCS must cover all crew members and operational safety critical personnel. Critical personnel are in relation to the aircraft you are using for your air transport operations.
- Part 138 operator conducting more complex aerial work operations.
Head of Training and Checking (HOTC)
All Part 121, 133, 135 air transport operators and/or Part 138 aerial work operators that require a training and checking system under CASR 138.125 must have an approved Head of Training and Checking (HOTC).
HOTC training
HOTC training is available in AviationWorx to prepare nominees for the assessment process:
The HOTC nominee must:
- meet the minimum qualifications and experience for the role (under certain circumstances the operator may apply for an approval to vary the qualifications and experience requirements)
- have a satisfactory record in the conduct or management of air operations
- understand their role and responsibilities in accordance with the applicable flight operations regulations
- demonstrate sufficient knowledge to us of the Training and Checking System (as specified in their exposition/operations manual) to safely manage the operations.
After the workbook is completed, the time required for the assessment may be reduced once we have verified the training has been effective.
Where the nominated HOTC intends to hold multiple key person roles, they must satisfy our requirements that they can effectively manage the responsibilities of each of the roles.
For further information, download our Head of training and checking guide.
Submission and implementation deadlines
Part 121 operators
- Submission due 17 December 2023 and accepted TCS implemented by 31 March 2024.
We will provide further information on the deadlines for other operators in the coming months.