Extended Range Operations (EROPS) Exam

ADVANCE FLYING ACADEMY

Extended Range Operations (EROPS) Exam

The Extended Range Operations (EROPS) Exam (often referred to as ETOPS, or Extended Twin Engine Operations) evaluates your understanding of operating twin-engine aircraft over routes where suitable diversion airports are farther apart than the standard 60-minute rule. This certification is essential for pilots operating long-haul flights across oceans, polar regions, or remote areas.

Key Topics to Study

1. ETOPS Regulations and Certification

Definition and purpose of ETOPS/EROPS.
Regulatory requirements (ICAO, FAA, EASA) for aircraft and operators.
ETOPS approval levels (e.g., 90-minute, 120-minute, 180-minute, or greater).

2. Aircraft and Crew Requirements

Redundant systems (engines, electrical, hydraulic, etc.) required for ETOPS approval.
Maintenance requirements and pre-flight inspections specific to ETOPS.
Crew training and operational procedures for extended-range operations.

3. Flight Planning

Calculating ETOPS entry and exit points (EEP and EXP).
Identifying suitable ETOPS alternates (runway length, weather, services available).
Fuel planning: contingency fuel, additional fuel for single-engine operations, and alternates.

4. Weather and Alternate Airports

Criteria for selecting ETOPS alternates (weather minimums, NOTAMs, availability of facilities).
Understanding remote airport limitations, including terrain, services, and medical aid.
Impact of adverse weather or volcanic activity on ETOPS routes.

5. Navigation and Communication

Use of satellite navigation and GNSS for long-range accuracy.
Communication systems for remote regions (HF, SATCOM, CPDLC).
Contingency procedures for lost communication or navigation equipment.

6. Fuel Management

Monitoring fuel temperatures and fuel consumption during extended operations.
Procedures if fuel temperature approaches freezing point.
Single-engine cruise fuel planning and performance considerations.

7. Emergency and Contingency Procedures

Engine failure or in-flight shutdown (IFSD) over remote areas.
Procedures for decompression and emergency descent in ETOPS airspace.
Planning and executing a diversion to the nearest suitable alternate.

Sample Exam Questions

Regulations
- What are the minimum system redundancies required for ETOPS certification?
- Explain the process for gaining ETOPS operational approval for an airline.
Flight Planning
- How do you determine the ETOPS entry and exit points for a given route?
- What factors must be considered when selecting ETOPS alternates?
Fuel Management
- How is additional contingency fuel calculated for an ETOPS flight?
- What actions should be taken if fuel temperature approaches the freezing point during flight?
Weather and Alternates
- What are the weather minima for an ETOPS alternate airport?
- How do volcanic ash advisories impact ETOPS flight planning?
Emergencies
- What are the procedures for an engine-out situation during an ETOPS flight?
- Describe the actions to be taken in case of cabin depressurization over an oceanic route.
Operational Scenarios
- You experience a hydraulic system failure mid-flight over an ETOPS segment. What are your options?
- How would you respond to a dual communication failure in an ETOPS operation?

Study Tips

Review Regulatory Material
- Study ICAO Annex 6, FAA AC 120-42B (or equivalent EASA guidance), and relevant airline operations manuals.
Understand Alternate Requirements
- Focus on how to select and evaluate ETOPS alternates, including the ability to operate with a single engine.
Practice Fuel Calculations
- Be comfortable with calculating critical point fuel, contingency fuel, and additional reserves.
Simulate Scenarios
- Practice handling emergencies like engine shutdowns, cabin depressurization, or diversions.
Familiarize Yourself with Systems
- Learn the specifics of ETOPS-certified aircraft systems and how they provide redundancy.
Use Case Studies
- Study real-world ETOPS incidents and how they were resolved to understand practical applications.