Traditional List of UPRT FAQs

Top Frequently Asked Questions by Pilots Investigating UPRT Solutions

What is UPRT and why is it important in the context of APS's training approach? 

UPRT stands for Upset Prevention and Recovery Training. It's a form of flight training that prepares pilots to recognize and recover from situations where an aircraft unintentionally exceeds the parameters for line operation or training (flight upsets). APS emphasizes UPRT because it addresses the leading cause of fatalities in aviation: Loss of Control In-flight (LOC-I).

How does APS's UPRT solutions comply with industry guidance and what makes them unique?

APS's UPRT solutions comply with industry guidance by adhering to the standards set by regulatory bodies like the FAA and ICAO. What sets APS apart is their comprehensive approach to UPRT, which includes academic, on-aircraft, and advanced simulation training, as well as their unique EPIC-S2 framework.

What is the role of EPIC-S2 in APS's UPRT solutions and how does it enhance the training effectiveness?

EPIC-S2, or "Every Pilot in Control Solution Standard," is a comprehensive framework that APS uses in its UPRT program. It integrates six critical factors: instructor qualifications, an integrated program, training program duration, industry compliance, and the appropriate use of training platforms. This framework enhances training effectiveness by ensuring a holistic, rigorous, and standardized approach to UPRT.

How does APS's UPRT solutions address the issues highlighted in FAA's AC 120-109A and how does it differ from other training programs?

FAA's AC 120-109A focuses on stall prevention and recovery training. APS's UPRT solutions address this by providing comprehensive stall recovery training, including both academic and practical training. APS's approach differs from other programs by emphasizing on-aircraft training, which allows pilots to experience real-world flight conditions and physiological responses.

How does APS's UPRT solutions align with the guidance in FAA's AC 120-123 and how does it incorporate flight path management?

FAA's AC 120-123 provides guidance on flight path management. APS's UPRT solutions align with this by teaching pilots how to manage an aircraft's flight path during upset conditions. This includes training on recognizing and recovering from excessive pitch attitudes, high bank angles, and high speed or high altitude upsets.

What is the significance of APS's use of unlimited-category aerobatic Extra 300Ls and SIAI-Marchetti S.211 jet trainers in its UPRT program?

The use of these aircraft is significant because they are capable of all-attitude maneuvering, which is crucial for effective UPRT. The Extra 300Ls are unlimited-category aerobatic aircraft, and the SIAI-Marchetti S.211 jet trainers are designed for all-attitude flight instruction. These aircraft allow pilots to experience and recover from a wide range of upset conditions.

How does APS's UPRT enhance flight safety, particularly in the context of loss of control inflight (LOC-I) events?

APS's UPRT enhances flight safety by equipping pilots with the skills and knowledge to prevent and recover from LOC-I events. This includes training on early recognition of upsets, appropriate recovery techniques, and strategies for avoiding upsets in the first place. By addressing the leading cause of aviation fatalities, APS's UPRT significantly enhances flight safety.

What is the training methodology used in APS's UPRT and how does it integrate academic, on-aircraft, simulator, and virtual reality training sessions?

APS's UPRT methodology is a comprehensive, integrated approach that combines academic, on-aircraft, simulator, and virtual reality training sessions. The academic sessions provide theoretical knowledge, the on-aircraft sessions provide real-world flight experience, the simulator sessions allow for safe practice of recovery techniques, and the virtual reality sessions provide immersive training in the pilot's own aircraft model.

Who should undergo APS's UPRT and why is it beneficial for all pilots, regardless of their experience level?

All pilots, regardless of their experience level, can benefit from APS's UPRT. The training is designed to enhance the skills of both new and experienced pilots by equipping them with the knowledge and techniques to prevent and recover from flight upsets. By addressing the leading cause of aviation fatalities, APS's UPRT can significantly enhance the safety and confidence of all pilots.

What is the duration of APS's UPRT and how does it incorporate both initial and recurrent training?

APS's UPRT typically lasts three to four days for initial training, with extended programs out to four days. The training incorporates both initial and recurrent training, with a long-term "life plan" that includes both initial and recurrent UPRT training to ensure pilots maintain proficiency, competency, and confidence throughout their flying career.

What kind of aircraft are used in APS's UPRT and why are they chosen?

APS uses both piston and jet aircraft capable of aerobatics in its integrated UPRT program. The Extra 300L is an unlimited aerobatic category aircraft, and the SIAI-Marchetti S.211 jet trainer is used for advanced jet training, including high-altitude UPRT. These aircraft are chosen because they are capable of all-attitude maneuvering, which is crucial for effective UPRT.

How often should pilots undergo APS's UPRT and what is the significance of regular refresher training?

APS recommends regular refresher training to maintain proficiency, competency, and confidence. The frequency of recurrent training may vary depending on the pilot's operational profile, but typically it takes place every two to three years. Regular refresher training is significant because it ensures that pilots' UPRT skills remain sharp and up-to-date.

What are the prerequisites for APS's UPRT and how does it cater to different pilots' operational profiles?

There are no specific prerequisites for APS's UPRT, as it is designed to cater to all pilots, regardless of their experience level or operational profile. The training is tailored to the pilot or company's operational profile, with different modules for pilots who operate at different altitudes or in different types of aircraft.

How does APS's UPRT address the human factors in flight safety, particularly in terms of G-awareness training and overcoming spatial disorientation?

APS's UPRT addresses human factors in flight safety by providing comprehensive G-awareness training and training on overcoming spatial disorientation. The on-aircraft training is particularly important for this, as it allows pilots to experience the physiological effects of real-world flight conditions and learn how to manage them effectively.

What is the cost of APS's UPRT and how does it provide value for the investment?

The cost of APS's UPRT can vary depending on the specific program and the pilot's operational profile. However, the value it provides is significant. By equipping pilots with the skills and knowledge to prevent and recover from flight upsets, APS's UPRT can significantly enhance flight safety and potentially save lives. This makes it a worthwhile investment for any pilot or aviation company.