ASOG Focus Area: Industry Support

Posted By: ASOG Desk Editor

We're excited to announce Cambridge Sensoriis is a new ASOG Corporate Supporter. Plus, they'll be attending and presenting at this year's ASOG Conference @ the Multi-Mission Expo (8-10 Jun, Sywell Aerodrome, UK). If you didn't know, Cambridge Sensoriis has over 25 years of delivering critical radar detection systems within their company.  They develop lightweight, highly sensitive, all weather, and easy to install Radar technology, suitable for use on Uncrewed Air Vehicles or autonomous drones, maximising automation, and minimising costs.

Cambridge Sensoriis can achieve high precision measurement of landing pads for autonomous control; locate a journey endpoint within centimetres, without GNSS; and provide assured positioning while a drone surveys infrastructure. Their pioneering technology is installed onto the drone itself, with insignificant impact on flight times, performance or load carrying.

They are enabling solutions such as:

- Power Line Inspection (Detection and avoidance of infrastructure whilst flying beyond the line of sight)
- Maritime (Automated support vessel landing and collision avoidance)
- Military Logistics (Automated endpoint location and landing to resupply forward positions)
- Vertiports (Localised airspace surveillance, landing pad management support)
- Railtrack Surveillance (Detection and avoidance during track inspections, beyond line of sight)  

For more information about Cambridge Sensoriis and their radar solutions, please visit www.cambsensoriis.com or reach out to Gareth Clark (ASOG Member)."

ASOG Focus Area | News & Information

Source | ASOG Desk Editor

Once or twice a year, we like to share a copy of the ASOG Monthly e-Newsletter with the general public to highlight the activities of our community and encourage participation in the association. If you would like to receive the ASOG e-Newsletter every month, jump over to www.aso-group.org and “Sign-Up.”

Along with signing up, you can post items of interest related to the community, e.g., best practices/professional aircrew opinion articles, flight department accomplishments, company press releases, and new technology…i.e., the latest trends. Etc.

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If you didn't have a chance to check in with your ASOG community in the last thirty-plus days, here's a quick rundown of last month's ASOG news, information, and events.

ASOG CONFERENCE & NETWORKING 2023

SAVE THE DATES

MAKE PLANS NOW TO ATTEND!

EVENT DETAILS

"ASOG MEMBERS" - LET US KNOW YOU'RE COMING!

GIVE A PRESENTATION – LET US KNOW IF YOU WANT TO PRESENT

ASOG CORPORATE SUPPORTERS - BECOME AN ASOG EVENT SPONSOR

ASOG Conference & Networking 2023 will be held in conjunction with Multi-Mission Expo 2023 from 8 to 10 June at Sywell Aerodrome, U.K.

ASOG Conference & Networking 2023 will include various presentations about the Airborne Sensor Operator (ASO) profession, new technologies, and much more. Additionally, networking opportunities are scheduled throughout each day.

ASOG Conference & Networking is for all (members & non-members) who have an interest in airborne sensor operations across commercial, public safety & defense multi-mission sectors. Attendance for ASOG Conference & Networking is free. However, entrance to the Multi-Mission Expo requires a purchase of a ticket. If you are interested in joining our dynamic and growing event, click ASOG EVENTS for more information.

ASOG EVENTS

DATE | 8 - 10 June 2023

LOCATION | Sywell Aerodrome, U.K.

BIG "THANK YOU" TO OUR ASOG EVENT SPONSORS!

Our ASOG event at this year's Multi-Mission Expo is primarily made possible due to the generous support of our sponsors.

(Become a generous sponsor - Added Your Logo Here)

ASOG ARTICLE OF THE MONTH

We don't need any stinking badges! | Patrick Ryan | If you remember the phrase "We don't need any stinking badges," it highlights that there's no need to show all your training and experience because somehow it's apparent. However, the reality is it's not apparent to others… To read more, see… We don't need any stinking badges!   

ASOG NEWS & INFORMATION

The Kit & Equipment of Aerial Work Aviation | Astrid Ayling | What makes an Aerial Work aviation aircraft a workhorse? The unobserved answer is the hardware and software that converts a General Aviation (G.A.) or Executive Jet into an aircraft that goes beyond flying people for hobby or transporting tourists to their next holiday. The kit & equipment of Aerial Work aviation is the "game-changer" when providing down-to-earth services that make a significant difference in many industries. Suppose you want to know what makes a basic airplane a workhorse. In that case,… To read more, see The Kit & Equipment of Aerial Work Aviation

Where is Waldo or Should I Say Where is George DeCock? | ASOG Desk Editor | If you didn't know, George is our informal ASOG Traveling Ambassador – and not coincidentally also our very first ASOG member. For the last five years, as he's traveled for work and professional development, he has been engaging aircrew and industry in support of ASOG. With that, George just sent us his 2023 World Tour schedule. If you're attending any of the shows below and want to network with a fellow ASOGer, reach out to George. Tell him at g.decock@airbornetechnologies.at or +33675758920, which shows you'll be visiting... To see George's schedule, see Where is Waldo or Should I Say Where is George DeCock?

New ASOG Corporate Supporter – CEA Design GmbH| ASOG Desk Editor | We're excited to announce that CEA Design GmbH (CEAD) is now an ASOG corporate supporter. CEAD was founded in 2018 by experienced aviation engineers as a 100% Austrian entity. They concentrate on designing, prototype building, and testing CS-VLA, CS-22, and CS-23 aircraft as a design subcontractor for external aircraft production facilities. Also, they design, test, certify & install EASA Minor/Major Changes (STCs) on…. To learn more about CEAD, see New ASOG Corporate Supporter – CEA Design GmbH

Job Announcement – Field Technician Engineer (ASO Background)| ASOG Career Center | We just got this job announcement from Wayne Dahlke – a long-time ASOG Member & ASOG Author. The company he works for (Peraton) is looking for a U.S. Citizen "Field Technician Engineer" with Sensor Op or Mission Commander experience. Here's Wayne's note to the group… To learn more about the job, see Job Announcement – Field Technician Engineer (ASO Background)

ASOG SAFETY CENTER

Safety Topic of the Month| Aviation Safety Quotes

Aviation is inherently risky. We can't eliminate all risks, but we can reduce them where we can. Aviation safety is the responsibility of every person involved in any aspect of civil aviation, from the aircraft pilot and flight crew to those who design and manufacture aircraft and its equipment, to those who oversee airport operations and air traffic control.

1. Safety is our number one priority. Strive to keep the skies safe and enjoyable for all.
2. Safety is the main priority, above all else. Just like you, Secure a safe flight.
3. Safety doesn't just happen—it takes hard work, strategic thinking, and constant innovation.
4. The most important thing about flying is safety. And the best safety device is a parachute.
5. To stay safe, you should always wear your seatbelt. The risk of injury is so much higher for those who don't wear it, and that's why it's the law.
6. Aviation Safety is paramount in the aviation industry. it saves lives, so do all you can to protect.

Source: https://quotesilove.com/aviation-safety-quotes/

ASOG CAREER CENTER: New job opportunities and other helpful career information

Job Postings – ASOG Network Job Postings or Referrals | ASOG Career Center | If you know of any job openings, post them on the blog board or send them to career@aso-group.org for posting.

Jobs on the ASOG Homepage | ASOG Career Center |

• Airborne Sensor Operator, Woolpert, USA
• NL EASP AIR Trainee and Jr. Mission Sensor Operators, NL
• Trainee Airborne Operator, BlueSky, U.K.
• Aerial Survey Operator, BlueSky, U.K.
• Sensor Operator / IMINT Analyst / SIGINT Analyst, CAE Aviation, E.U.

Job Postings of the Month | ASOG Career Center |

• Airborne Imaging Specialist (Payload Operator & Geospatial Analyst) - Overwatch Imaging | ASOG Career Center | The Overwatch Airborne Imaging Specialist will operate Overwatch imaging systems and generate maps and other derived information products for customers in critical civil, industrial, and specialty applications while providing feedback to drive continuous product improvement. For more information, see… Airborne Imaging Specialist (Payload Operator & Geospatial Analyst) - Overwatch Imaging

ASOG OPERATIONS:

Wanted – Professional Instructors & Courses! If you're a freelance instructor or training organization in a specialized ASO field (e.g., Aerial Surveying, Aerial Photography, OEM, etc.) and want to provide training to our ASOG community… let's talk. We want to expand our community training & education program by leveraging your business to achieve this goal, i.e., ASOG Organized/Industry Provided. If interested, contact Patrick (pryan@aso-group.org) for more details and coordination.

"Do You Have Something to Say" – "Fire Away" and show your experience or show off something cool your company or organization just accomplished!" As an ASOG member, we'll post your links, articles, press releases, etc., related to the ASO & Non-Rated Aircrew profession and those things interconnected, i.e., informative, educational, or career-enhancing, to make a difference to the community. So, if this sounds interesting to you – send us an e-mail, and we'll post it….. deskeditor@aso-group.org

ASOG MEMBERS & SUPPORTERS

New Members |  New Members

• Pascal Gachowski
• Javier Torres
• Christopher Kennedy
• Dermot Oakley
• Clemens Knappert
• Samuel McMillan
• Pedro Guevara
• Francisco Miguel Chelmik Oliveira

New Corporate Supporter |  New Corporate Supporter  

Become a New ASOG Corporate Supporter| ASOG Desk Editor | If your company or organization would like to be a proud supporter of the Airborne Sensor Operators Group network, please send an e-mail to info@aso-group.org, and we'll get you included. No fees, donations, or obligations are required, just your professional recognition and participation in the network like any other member and corporate Supporter.

ASOG 2023 FLIGHT PLAN

Projects & Initiatives:

• ASOG 2.0 "ASOG, A Professional International Aircrew Association" – Standup & Transition
• ASOG Annual General Assembly – Plan & Conduct
• ASOG Events – Regional/Local Networking (Meet-Ups) Events – Plan & Conduct By Request
• ASOG Events – ASOG Networking Meet-Up – AERO Friedrichshafen – Plan & Conduct (19-22 April 2023, Germany)
• ASOG Events – ASOG Conference & Networking Meet-Up - Multi-Mission Expo 2023 – Plan & Conduct (8-10 June 2023, Sywell Aerodrome U.K.)
• ASOG News & Information – Virtual Events – R&D
• ASOG Training & Education – ASOG Organized/Industry Provided – Live Events – R&D
• ASOG Training & Education – ASOG Organized/Industry Provided – Virtual Events – R&D

Events |  Events (ASOG Events or an event ASOG members are attending)

• ASOG Conference & Networking Meet-Up 2023 (Multi-Mission Expo, U.K., 8-10 Jun 2023)

ASOG Focus Area | News & Information

Source | Multi-Mission Expo

Along with exhibiting, the team at Smith Myers is presenting at ASOG Conference & Networking 2023 in conjunction with the Expo. If you’ve interested in learning more about a new type of aerial SIGINT system, join us at the conference. The ASOG conference is free to all members & non-members.

ASOG Focus Area: News & Information

Source: Aerial Survey Base / Business GEMATICS Online

If you’re tracking trends related to our profession, here’s an article Ollie (ASOG Member) posted on his business website.

“photogrammetry - a market with plenty of opportunities, but also with many risks.”

Aerial Survey Industry Is Changing Rapidly

ASOG Focus Area | News & Information

Shared By | Astrid Ayling

What makes an Aerial Work aviation aircraft a workhorse? The unobserved answer is the hardware and software that converts a General Aviation (GA) or Executive Jet into an aircraft that goes beyond flying people for hobby or transporting tourists to their next holiday. The kit & equipment of Aerial Work aviation is the "game-changer" when providing down-to-earth services that make a significant difference in many industries. Suppose you want to know what makes a basic airplane a workhorse. In that case, the February issue of GA Buyer Europe Magazine will guide you through the "specification" of the primary kit & equipment that makes a basic aircraft into something other than an aerial transport vehicle.

The Kit & Equipment of Aerial Work Aviation

Flip to Page 28-30

ASOG Article of the Month | January 2023

ASOG Author | Patrick Ryan

If you remember the phrase "We don't need any stinking badges," it highlights that there's no need to show all your training and experience because somehow it's apparent. However, the reality is it's not apparent to others.

Besides obtaining "stinking badges," the effort of taking courses or going through the process of getting a piece of paper also strengthens your professional "Knowledge Bucket." Without a doubt, certifications, permits, licenses, etc., make a difference in obtaining a job or moving up the career ladder, but they also make you smarter.

In the case of the Airborne Sensor Operators, there are a lot of "badges" an ASO can obtain to show they're a cut above the rest, e.g., GIS certs. TFO courses, OEM equipment training, etc. In my opinion, with a focus on airmanship, I recommend three "badges" for civil non-rated aircrew members.

No. 1 - Flight Physical: Even though most countries and companies don't require a flight physical for non-rated aviators, obtaining a basic class flight medical exam is good for these three reasons:

• It lets "You" know if you're healthy to fly, i.e., are you going to have physical or mental problems in a flying environment?
• It lets your fellow aircrew members know you're fit to fly. Knowing the status of my fellow crewmates helps with making better decisions, i.e., especially in an Emergency Procedure.
• It lets your current or future employer know you are physically and mentally fit for the job. Plus, you'll have the upper hand over many other candidates because many of them will have the attitude of "We don't need any stinking badges."

No. 2 - Altitude Chamber – Again, outside many militaries, it's generally not a requirement for both rated and non-rated aircrew members. However, going through an Altitude Chamber physiological training course will benefit you for two reasons:

• It lets "You" know what it feels like to be in a non-oxygen environment, i.e., above 10,000 feet. Knowing your body signs that you're in a state of hypoxia could save your life and others.
• Again, it lets your current or future employer know you have a professional attitude regarding flying. Plus, you're stretching yourself professionally to learn something new.

No. 3 - Radiotelephone Operators Permit – Like the previous two recommendations, obtaining a radiotelephone Operator Permit is a hit & miss requirement based on what country you live in or operate. However, getting a radio operator permit, certificate, or license (plus learning about aviation communication procedures) will benefit you for these three reasons:

• Going through the process of learning how to talk on the radio and understanding the world of ATC communications will again increase your professional knowledge and expand your capabilities.
• If your mother tongue is not English, going through the process will help you with your level of Aviation English competency.
• Suppose you're planning to fly as an ASO beyond your specific country boundaries, i.e., internationally. In that case, you might be required to have a license in other countries if you plan to operate radios.
• You'll be a major asset in the cockpit if you have this permit and the skill of communicating on radios, i.e., especially on two-person crews, i.e., one pilot and one ASO.
• Again, Again, it lets your current or future employer know you have a professional attitude regarding flying. Plus, you're stretching yourself professionally to learn something new.

So, with that said! Is your professional elevator pitch "We don't need any stinking badges!" or is it "I have alot of badges!"

ASOG Focus Area | News & Information

Posted By | ASOG Desk Editor

If you didn't know, George is our informal ASOG Traveling Ambassador – and not coincidentally also our very first ASOG member. For the last five years, as he's traveled for work and professional development, he has been engaging aircrew and industry in support of ASOG.

With that, George just sent us his 2023 World Tour schedule. If you're attending any of the shows below and want to network with a fellow ASOGer, reach out to George. Let him know at g.decock@airbornetechnologies.at or +33675758920 which show you’ll be visiting. Without a doubt, if you meet up with George at one of these events, you won't regret it. His knowledge, experience, and network of Who's Who is extensive.

If you don't know George, for 30+ years, he has been involved in engineering and marketing LoS/BLoS Coms, EW, Radar, EO/IR, and ISR systems. He presently enjoys work and life as the SCAR-pod and Sensors/Mission Specialist for Airborne Technologies, concentrating on new ISR technologies and new applications of existing ones.

George focuses on developing new techniques, sensors, and customer requirements worldwide, with specific emphasis on any technology that will further enhance the Airborne LINX/SCAR-pod's capabilities, ultimately reducing crew workload and increasing mission efficiency.

He firmly believes in applying R-COTS and open-architecture software for all airborne surveillance systems. He is convinced that the future belongs to using small, multi-purpose aircraft and pods equipped with integrated multi-role sensors. Currently, he works on several programs with optimized payloads for manned and unmanned surveillance missions and likes to share his experience and views on new ISR capabilities for airborne platforms.

• IDEX / 20-24 FEB                           Abu Dhabi/UAE (stand)
• HAI / 06-09 MAR                            Atlanta / USA (stand)
• DSEI / 15-17 MAR                          Makuhari / Japan (visit)
• LAAD / 11-14 APR                          Rio de Janeiro (visit)
• ASDA/24-26 APR                            Split/Croatia (stand)
• PAvCon / 5-7 JUN                           Bilbao / Spain (presentation)
• Multi-Mission Expo / 8-10 JUN   Sywell / UK (presentation)
• ASOG Conference / 8-10 JUN     Sywell / UK (presentation)
• PAS / 19-25 JUN                            Paris / France (stand)
• RIAT / 14-16 JUL                           Fairford/ UK (visit)
• APSCON 17-22 JUL                         Orlando / FL (visit)
• DSEi/                                            London / UK (visit)
• GDH / 17-19 OCT                           Warsaw / Poland (stand)
• GSOF / tbd OCT                             Budapest / Hungary (tbd)
• AD&S / 6-9 NOV                             BKK / Thailand (visit)
• Airshow / 13-1 7NOV                      Dubai/UAE (visit)
• European ROTORS / 28-30 Nov        Madrid / Spain (visit)

SAVE THE DATES

MAKE PLANS NOW TO ATTEND!

ASOG Conference & Networking 2023 will be held in conjunction with Multi-Mission Expo 2023 from 8 to 10 June at Sywell Aerodrome, U.K.

ASOG Conference & Networking 2023 will include various presentations about the Airborne Sensor Operator (ASO) profession, new technologies, and much more. Additionally, networking opportunities are scheduled throughout each day.

ASOG Conference & Networking is for all (members & non-members) who have an interest in airborne sensor operations across commercial, public safety & defense multi-mission sectors. Attendance for ASOG Conference & Networking is free. However, entrance to the Multi-Mission Expo requires a purchase of a ticket. If you are interested in joining our dynamic and growing event, click "ASOG EVENTS" for more information.

ASOG EVENTS

DATE | 8 - 10 June 2023

LOCATION | Sywell Aerodrome, U.K.

BIG “THANK YOU” TO OUR ASOG EVENT SPONSORS!

Our ASOG event at this year's Multi-Mission Expo is primarily made possible due to the generous support of our sponsors.

(Become a generous sponsor - Add Your Logo Here)

ASOG Focus Area: Industry Support

Posted By: ASOG Desk Editor

We're excited to announce that CEA Design GmbH (CEAD) is now an ASOG corporate supporter. CEAD was founded in 2018 by experienced aviation engineers as a 100% Austrian entity. They concentrate on designing, prototype building, and testing CS-VLA, CS-22, and CS-23 aircraft as a design subcontractor for external aircraft production facilities. Also, they design, test, certify & install EASA Minor/Major Changes (STCs) on light fixed and rotor wing aircraft. Plus, they specialize in the following:

• Mission equipment installation (Cameras, Radars, Datalinks, ...)
• Avionics configuration changes
• Engine configuration changes
• Greenfield serial production setup & certification support

We look forward to future engagements with CEAD to help shape the Airborne Sensor Operator profession.

If you want to learn more about CEAD and their products & services, check them out on the ASOG Corporate Supporter page (click their Logo)

ASOG Corporate Supporters

ASOG Focus Area: Career Management

Shared By: ASOG Career Center

We just got this job announcement from Wayne Dahlke – a long-time ASOG Member & ASOG Author. The company he works for (Peraton) is looking for a U.S. Citizen "Field Technician Engineer" with Sensor Op or Mission Commander experience. Here's Wayne's note to the group:

"This is for my company, Peraton. It is NOT a flying job (but there may be potential to fly later....I am working on that), but it requires flight experience as a sensor op and/or a mission commander. If you have some FSR and training experience as well, so much the better. TS/SCI required. CI Poly very beneficial. U.S. citizens only. The pay band is in the Job Description. Might be able to go higher, if exceptionally well qualified. Someone like a former Navigator/CSO (AFSOC or other intel platform) or NFO (P3/P8) would be perfect."

If interested, check out the details on the link below or reach out to Wayne for more information.

Field Technician Engineer

"birds of a feather flock together."

ASOG Focus Area: News & Information

Shared By: ASOG Desk Editor

There are boring ASO jobs, and there is adrenaline making ASO jobs. In the case of ASOs who fly hurricane hunter missions, this job leans towards the adrenaline side of the spectrum. If you didn’t know, since the first Hurricane Hunter mission, ASOs (be it Navigators, Observers, scientists, etc.) have been critical crewmembers collecting critical information regarding hurricanes, typhoons, and cyclones. The information they collect helps communities around the world prepare for or avoid such natural & dangerous weather phenomena.

If you’re curious to learn more about these missions and the role ASOs play in such operations, here are several links and a video that give you a good perspective of this mission and the operators who make it happen.

NOAA Hurricane Hunters 

Meet the Crew: Jessica Williams, NOAA Hurricane Hunter 

ASOG Article of the Month | December 2022

ASOG Author | Derrick Brydges

Derrick gives some GREAT advice to non-rated or Airborne Sensor Operators who are new to the career field or junior operators looking for best practices. Specifically, he speaks to the basics of crew flying that he had to learn while operating for over thirty years as an Aerial Powerline Patrolman.

Over my long career of flying with many other flyers in different aircraft and environments worldwide, I’ve learned a few things that I would like to share with you that I think will be very helpful in your professional efforts. I know for a fact my does & don’ts (below) have kept me safe & employed for many years. I’m sure these principles will continue to keep me going for many more years.

So, if you’re interested, here are my “Does & Don’ts” I practice every time I step on the helipad or Flightline:

Does:

• Put it Away - Leave the ego & attitude behind before beginning the workday.
• Communicate – Communicate effectively with team members. It could make the difference between life & death, i.e., a paramount “Do.”
• Pacing - If the operator or pilot becomes fatigued, take a break to relax the senses, i.e., not being alert will negate the safety and effectiveness of the aerial scan.
• Corporate - On a 2-man team, offer to assist with the beginning and end of day tasks, e.g., moving aircraft, helping with preflight, refueling, and postflight activities, etc.
• Eat and Drink Properly - Eat well and stay hydrated throughout every project, i.e., during every flight, between multiple flights, and during trips away from home base.

 Don’ts:

• Assume - As an ASO working in an aircraft, don’t believe you’re a pilot, e.g., assuming weather, fuel status, etc.
• Become Unorganized - As an ASO, one may have to perform various daily tasks. Along with capturing field data, the data should be filed and organized at the end of each day. On large projects, the “personal memory chip” can become overloaded; hence organized data files are easier to review during future finalizations of reports. If not, unorganized data files can lead to a long day and fatigue, which can wear on the mind and body. When required, take the proper time to organize the data, as having to “re-fly” a circuit is inefficient.

ASOG Focus Area: Career Management

Shared By: ASOG Career Center

We just got this job announcement from Green Rebel (ASOG member Sarah Kandrot) out of Ireland. They're looking for an Aerial Survey Task Specialist (ASO).

If interested in the job, review the job announcement below and respond accordingly. Again, thanks, everyone. Have a Super Holiday Season!

Aerial Survey Task Specialist Job

ASOG Focus Area: Career Management

Shared By: ASOG Career Center

We just got this job announcement from AAM – a Woolpert Company (Matthew Owen) out of Australia. They're looking for an ASO. Here's Matthews's note to the group:

"I'm not sure about the protocol here but I am looking to fill a temporary ASO role here in Australia with operations in both Australia and Papua New Guinea. Lidar and Imagery sensor operator. The work period is for January – April 2023 and an Australian temporary skilled worker visa will be provided. Here you can post this on your page and ask them to contact me if they are interested. Many thanks and merry Christmas, Matthew Owen Project Manager 0427 381 410 m.owen@aamgroup.com aamgroup.com"

If interested in the job, review the job announcement below and respond accordingly. Thanks, everyone. Have a Super Holiday Season!

Airborne Sensor Operator Job

ASOG 2022 Focus Area | News & Information

Shared By | ASOG Desk Editor Aerial Survey.com

This article just came to our attention in the newsroom from one of our ASOG Corporate Supports…Aerial Survey.com. You'll find this post very informative if you're in the aerial surveying & mapping sector. The team at Aerial Survey.com sat down with Mark Meade, PE, PLS, CP, former senior vice president of NV5 Geospatial, and discussed selecting the correct sensor.

So, is it better to have one top-of-the-line or multiple sensors? How might point cloud accuracy compare between sensors on the same project? Do you want to provide the most accurate data for your clients or just enough accuracy? … To Learn more, See…

How to Invest in Sensors for Longevity

ASOG Article of the Month | November 2022

ASOG Author | Patrick Ryan

Not many books on the shelf focus on the operational side of police aviation. However, there is a relatively new book that does just that, i.e., focuses on everything from history and tactics to recruitment & selection of police helicopter crews. Besides the police aviation aspect of this book, it has much to offer to other multi-mission aviators when it comes to relating and learning something new regarding unique hi-tempo operations.

I was given two gifts during the ASOG Conference & Meet-Up in Cologne this month. The first gift was Bryn Elliott (ASOG Member and editor of Police Aviation News Magazine) giving me a copy of a book, and the second gift was Bryn signing the book as a contributor. As a contributor, Bryn provided valuable information about UK police aviation history and current event details.

Now to the Book

The book I'm referring to is "Police Helicopter, Delivering air support for law enforcement – Operations Manual." The book's author is Richard Brandon, and is Published by Haynes Publishing UK (2020). If you're interested in obtaining a copy of this book, you can easily purchase it over the internet.

Overall, the book is focused on UK police aviation past & present and is divided, from my perspective, into the following logical and informative chapters:

• Police Aviation in the UK
• The Metropolitan Police Air Support Unit
• Anatomy of a police helicopter
• Police helicopter crew
• Tactics
• Police helicopter in action (Case Studies)
• Behind the scenes

Within each chapter, you'll find very informative sub-subjects. My favorites are "Anatomy of a Police Helicopter" and "Tactics." Here's an overview of their sub-subjects:

Anatomy of a Police Helicopter

• UK Police Helicopter
• Anatomy of a police helicopter
• Exploring the police role equipment

Tactics

• What does a police helicopter do?
• Searching
• Enclosed area search
• Open area search
• Vehicle pursuits
• And more…..

The Good

What I like about this book and the author is – It's written from an Airborne Sensor Operator (ASO) or Tactical Flight Officer (TFO) perspective. So you can see Richards's perception of operations from a TFO perspective throughout the book.

Another "like" on my part about this book is the illustrations, diagrams, and photos. Richard provides relevant, informative, and helpful information about the topic and is on the same page with the subject. Being an "Old Crew Dog," I could quickly get a visual on the subject and understand the information he was relaying.

The Bad

On the bad side, and not really a bad thing, the book left me wanting to get a "Ride Along" flight and actually see the crews, equipment, and operations in action, i.e., experiencing the real world sometimes is better than seeing the world virtually when it comes to understanding a subject.

The End

To flip to the final page of my short review, Richard's book, in my opinion, is perfect for those wanting to:

• Get into police aviation,
• Non-aviators or Supervisors working with police aviators, or
• Someone who wants to learn a new perspective of a different Aerial Work or Multi-Mission operation.

So, if you're looking to fill your Airborne Sensor Operator "Knowledge Bucket," I highly recommend this book for future and current ASOGers.

ASOG 2022 Focus Areas | Networking, News & Information

Posted By | ASOG Desk Editor

If you've been tracking all the special ASOG announcements the last two months, we organized and conducted our first in-person ASOG Conference & Networking Meet-Up at this year's EUROPEAN ROTORS VTOL show (8-10 Nov) in Cologne, Germany.

For the first go of an event like this, we had over 15 members attend throughout the show. Also, with such a sizeable public trade show gathering, the ASOG Conference drew the attention of many from industry and the VTOL community into the audience, followed by a positive interest in joining & supporting our growing association.

ASOG CONFERENCE

On the conference side of things, the conference started on the first day of the show (8 Nov) at 13:00 on stage 2. ASOG President Patrick Ryan opened the conference, followed by presentations and a discussion panel by members related to the Airborne Sensor Operator profession. Here's a rundown of what took place:

• ASOG President Patrick Ryan provided the audience with an overview of the ASOG association. Patrick highlighted the need for such an association, i.e., a professional place where non-rated crewmembers can network and professionally develop. Following this, Patrick walked the conference attendees through the who, what, when, where & how of the association. Some interesting facts Patrick presented was that ASOG is growing by 7+ new core members per month and has over 600,000 1^st & 2^nd level followers & connections on social media. Regarding the future, Patrick gave a forthcoming view of where ASOG is heading, i.e., enhancing benefits + services and adding a small members dues and industry sponsorship program to cover operating costs, i.e., "keep the cost down for the members but enhance the quality of the benefits."
• Following Patrick was George DeCock, i.e., ASOG Traveling Ambassador and SME for Airborne Technologies GmbH. George gave an excellent presentation on "The Shadow Crewmember & Sensors." His presentation covered the spectrum of the "good, bad, and the ugly" of the ASO profession and the importance of their skill set in managing sensors in this ever-growing technological world. One of the highlights of George's presentation was his breakdown of many issues related to operators, sensors, and flying, for example:
  • Problem – Report before landing,
  • Solution – Mission Management system built-in reporting software
  • Benefit – Faster reporting & analysis
  • Status – Future development, etc.

Additionally, it was interesting to hear other presenters and members quote George after his presentation throughout the rest of the show.

• Probably the best part of the conference was the discussion panel. The panel consisted of ASOG members Mark Keogh, Andy Watson, Hector Estevez, and George DeCock, with Patrick Ryan moderating. The theme of the discussion was "The Airborne Sensor Operator Profession – Past, Present & Future." The questions focused on Roles & Responsibilities, Systems & Equipment, and Training. Even though the panel only had a half hour to discuss, the professional opinions and views from these very experienced & knowledgeable members was "Worth Gold." We're definitely going to do more of these discussion panels in the future.
• After the discussion panel, Hector Estevez from the industry presented new technology to benefit ASOs. Hector, an ASOG member and CEO of CENTUM Research & Technology, presented his company's latest technology – LifeSeeker – which helps SAR operators find and rescue missing individuals by exploiting the premise that everyone has a mobile phone. In addition, Hector highlighted the capability of their system to geo-locate an individual's location and communicate with the distressed individual, i.e., in remote locations.
• Following Hector, Peter Schaffer, ASOG member and Global Head of Business Development OFIL Europe, presented the current state of the art in multispectral imaging for power line inspection on helicopter platforms. He also touched on upcoming smart features for further automation to support operators during their mission.
• Last but not least, long-time ASOG member Peter Myer, Managing Director at Smith Myers Communications Ltd, presented another life-saving capability for SAR ASOs to employ, i.e., ARTEMIS. Peter highlighted ARTEMIS is designed to accurately locate mobile telephones in challenging airborne SAR environments using only two small antennas. Furthermore, Peter underlined ARTEMIS could detect a phone at extended ranges and provide unique capabilities such as mass-mapping and geofencing to minimize aircrew workload.

ASOG NETWORKING "MEET-UPS"

On the in-person networking side of the event, ASOG networking started a day before the show opened. The ASOG event team started a WhatsApp group - "ASOG Köln 2022" - for those members attending to coordinate activities during the show. It was great to see everyone jump in and message the group so quickly during their travels (Don't forget, at this point, most members haven't personally met one another). The WhatsApp group continued strong throughout the week. Plus, what's even better, the group is still chatting to this day. We'll probably do more of these WhatsApp groups in the future.

Outside the virtual world, in-person networking (per the ASOG Charter) was outstanding for many members. Besides meeting and making friends with fellow members, members were open to other members' professional networks in a very positive (in some cases business-rewarding) way both during the show and in the evening.

Speaking of evenings, from 7 Nov to 10 Nov, the group established a standard rendezvous point after each show day in the Radisson Blue Hotel lobby bar (across the street from the show) for members to informally relax, continue to network, and have a few drinks at the same time. Even though some members had to break off and attend business dinners, the group continued during the evening to sample the local restaurants in Cologne – Side Note - Big Thank You to members Thomas Unger, Astrid Ayling, and George DeCock for your invitations.

FUTURE ASOG EVENTS

Based on feedback from members and industry regarding in-person ASOG events, we have several invitations to conduct conferences, workshops, and training events at established trade shows and at specific ASOG Corporate Supporter facilities in North America and Europe. So with that and with your feedback, we will continue to build on these ideas as time goes on….again, the big question is, what do you want?

So, as mentioned before, this was the first ever ASOG in-person event of its kind. This ASOG event was indeed a good test of concepts while at the same time professionally fun. From the perspective of the ASOG Board of Directors (Patrick R., Benjamin K. & Tanja W.), it was an excellent opportunity to learn what works and what doesn't, i.e., what members want & need and how to plan for such events in the future. So with that, we'll continue to "crawl, walk, run" to make a difference in our profession!

THANK YOU TO OUR ASOG EVENT SPONSORS!

Our ASOG event at this year's EUROPEAN ROTORS show is primarily made possible due to the generous support of our sponsors.

ASOG 2022 Focus Area | News & Information

Shared By | Bettina Hainschink

Posted By | ASOG Desk Editor

ASOG member Bettina Hainschink thought some of you (especially the German speakers in the group) would be interested in the video recordings and presentation slides of the “Society 5.0” conference held in Vienna, Austria, on 19 October 2022.

The conference focused on what lies ahead for society regarding technology and people in the loop, i.e., a futuristic look into the following decades. Additionally, weaved throughout the discussions was how aviation would be a part of the next revision of society, i.e., the use of sensors, etc.

If you’re interested in reviewing the recordings & briefings, follow Bettina’s instructions. She coordinated to have the recordings & presentations available for ASOG members for free until 17 November 2022. After the free period for members, all lectures, including panel discussions (video recordings and presentations), are available for €250 excl. VAT. For more information, leap over to https://www.conect.at/papers/society-5-0-technologies-und-gesellschaft.

If you have questions for Bettina, jump over to her ASOG profile and send her a message.

Videos and Papers

• Introduction to Society 5.0 - Erwin Schoitsch (AIT): https://www.conect.at/papers/einfuehrung-ins-thema-society-5-0
• Society 5.0 - A way to meet the global challenges of our society through innovation and technology - Reiner John (AVL Graz): https://www.conect.at/papers/gesellschaft-5-0-ein-weg-den-globalen-herausforderungen-unserer-gesellschaft-durch-innovation-und-technologie-zu-begegnen
• The contribution of blockchain technology to a more sustainable society - Vinzenz Treytl (ABC Research): https://www.conect.at/papers/der-beitrag-von-blockchain-technologie-zu-einer-nachnachhaltiger-gesellschaft
• People and AI in a team – Collaboration 5.0 – Markus Manz (SCCH): https://www.conect.at/papers/mensch-und-ki-im-team-collaboration-5-0
• Financial Health - MMag. Isabella Frey (George Labs): https://www.conect.at/papers/financial-health
• Nano/Bio/Digi/Neuro: Potentials and dangers of convergent technologies – Dirk Helbing (ETH Zurich): https://www.conect.at/papers/nano-bio-digi-neuro-potentials-and-hazards-of-convergent-technologies

ASOG Article of the Month | October 2022

ASOG Author | Patrick Ryan & Derrick Brydges

As a low-time ASO, have you ever wondered what your Chief Pilot or Senior Sensor Operator expects of you as a new Airborne Sensor Operator?

A few days ago, Derrick Brydges (ASOG member since 2017 and a senior Power Line Patrol ASO) and I had a chance to exchange e-mails regarding the ASO profession. One of the questions that came to mind was related to low-time ASOs, i.e., especially in the Power Line Patrol sector, and what a chief pilot or senior ASO expects of their new ASOs.

Here's what Derrick had to say based on his experience and inputs from a Helicopter Pilot with whom he worked performing Power Line Patrols for over 25 years. Plus, this individual is the "baseline" model of what Derrick expects working on projects, i.e., Senior Aircrew Member Expectations:

• Specialized Knowledge - New Senior Operators should be very knowledgeable about powerline circuits by having worked on them as a Lineman or as a senior Technician - "Hands On" experience is hard to beat in evaluating what is found and how important the patrol findings are then presented to Management.
• Team Player - Another attribute is to be a "Team Player," i.e., trusting the pilot, and vice versa, will produce a "Safe, Effective Flight Environment." Plus, it helps lead to better results which is what it is all about.
• Mentoring - Any "Senior Position "would entail directing "Junior Staff," i.e., having the ability to encourage young observers by example and with patience.
• Technical Knowledge - A Senior Operator should be computer and camera savvy, i.e., interested in the ever-evolving technical cameras, etc. Plus, going beyond expectations when operating them in the field. 
• Physically Fit - Not susceptible to air sickness.
• Specialized Training – Like Helicopter Pilots, complete "Flying in the Wires Environment" training.

Besides ASOs, Derrick's expectations for new Power Line Patrol Helicopter pilots are:

• Specialized Training - Complete "Flying in the Wires Environment" training.
• Captainism - Does not have the "Captainism" complex, i.e., is a Team Player willing to be a good mentor.

Even though Derrick's expectations as a senior Power Line Patrol ASO are "spot on" in the aerial utility sector, there also "spot on" in the many other Aerial Work aviation sectors that ASOs make a living. So, the next time you're flying with a new pilot or experienced ASO and want to fit in professionally, think of Derrick's "expectations!"