The Non-Type-Rating-Rating Alternative

Consider what it takes for the FAA to deem one aircraft type so, well, finicky, for lack of a better word, that it warrants its own special federal aviation regulation setting out specific training requirements for its pilots. Part of the answer is reflected in the image above, of an MU-2s upper wing surface. Note the multiple-slotted Fowler flap. One can just make out the spoiler used for roll control.

Key Takeaways:

• The FAA implements Special Federal Aviation Regulations (SFARs) for specific aircraft types, such as Robinson R-22/R-44 helicopters and the Mitsubishi MU-2, to mandate specialized pilot training.
• These SFARs are established because, despite meeting certification standards, these aircraft have demanding handling characteristics that have led to pilot errors primarily due to inconsistent or insufficient training.
• For the MU-2, SFAR 108 was a compromise solution, developed with community input, to ensure rigorous pilot training specifically for its unforgiving nature in single-engine and low-speed operations.

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