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Operation of Aircraft
Operations manual
The flight manual need not be carried if the operations manual contains the relevant parts of the flight manual. The relevant parts of the operations manual must be carried and accessible on every flight.
Training manual
Trainers must have a copy of the training manual.
Public transport - operator's responsibilities
The operator must:
- designate a pilot-in-command
- ensure enroute nav aids are adequate
- ensure the departure, destination, and alternate aerodromes are suitable
- ensure that the crew all have the required experience, practice, and periodic tests
- not allow the simulation of emergencies during public transport
Loading - public transport aircraft and suspended loads
The commander must sign the load sheet and leave a copy on the ground. It then needs to be kept for at least 6 months. Schedule 15 outlines the load sheet requirements.
Public transport - operating conditions
An aircraft shall not be operated over water more than 60 minutes from the nearest shore unless it has more than 2 power units.
Aircraft operating in Hong Kong - aerodrome operating minima
An aircraft may not depart if the cloud ceiling or RVR are below the take-off minima. On approach, descent below 1,000' above aerodrome height is not allowed if the RVR is less than the minima. If flight in accordance with the IFR is expected at the destination, an alternate must be nominated before take-off.
Pre-flight action by commander of aircraft
The commander must be satisfied before departure that:
- the flight can be safely made based on routes, aerodromes, and weather
- the aircraft equipment is serviceable
- the aircraft is fit for flight and has a CMR that is valid for the duration of the intended flight
- the weight and balance are correct
- sufficient fuel and oil are carried and include contingencies
- the aircraft performance is acceptable
- any pre-flight check system has been complied with
Pilots to remain at controls
Both pilots must be at the controls during take-off and landing, one of which must be the commander. The safety harness must be worn for take-off and landing.
Public transport of passengers - duties of commander
The commander shall take reasonable steps to ensure:
- the safety briefing is completed before take-off
- a briefing is completed before take-off on the use of the life jackets is given if flying more than 30 minutes from land
- that before take-off and landing the crew are properly secured in their seats
(Note that these are not the only requirements of 34.)
Operation of radio in aircraft
A hand-held mic cannot be used in controlled airspace below FL150 or for take-off or landing. (A hand-held mic may be used for PA purposes at all times.)
Use of flight recording systems and preservation of records
The flight data recorder and cockpit voice recorder must be operating from the beginning of the take-off roll to the end of the landing roll. The operator is required to keep the last 25 hours of the flight data recorder.
Towing of gliders
The combined length of an aircraft and a towed object should not exceed 150m. The glider shall be attached to the towing aircraft before take-off.
Dropping of animals and articles
Fuel and other items may be jettisoned in an emergency with the commander's permission.
Dropping of persons
Written permission from the authority is required for parachuting in Hong Kong.
Carriage of weapons and munitions of war
A sporting rifle may be carried as long as it is checked baggage (or consigned as cargo), is inaccessible in flight, and is unloaded. For munitions of war, the commander requires in writing the operator's agreement to carry them and there must be written permission from the Chief Executive. Weapons and munitions of war must be carried in compartments without passenger access.
Exits and break-in markings
An exit door may be obstructed by cargo if that part of a combi aircraft is in freighter configuration. Only the cockpit door may be bolted shut during take-off and landing and emergencies. Exits must be marked in English and Chinese, and opening instructions provided both inside and outside (if the door can be opened from the outside).
All doors must be working, except that 1 may be unserviceable if the exit signs are covered, and the exit is marked by a red disc at least 23cm in diameter with a horizontal white bar across it and the words 'No Exit'. 
Drunkenness in aircraft
A drunk person may not enter an aircraft, and the crew must not be under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Authority of commander of aircraft
Every person shall obey lawful commands from the commander.
References
- AN(HK)O Part V