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!"

ASOG 2022 Focus Area | News & Information

Shared By | Astrid Ayling, AV Buyer Magazine (Image - Airborne Technologies GmbH)

When someone says ‘Helicopter’, you think of Pilot, Loadmaster, Hoist Operator – right? However, there is a crew position many don't think of, which is equally important within the rotor-wing community. This crew position or profession is the Airborne Sensor Operator (ASO). Even though you’ll see Airborne Sensor Operators operate across the spectrum of aircraft from wide-body jets to Lighter-than-Air (LTA) platforms. The ASO’s contribution to the Aerial Work rotor-wing workforce has expanded tenfold since the beginning of the digital revolution in the 1970s… To read more, see The Helicopter Airborne Sensor Operator

ASOG Conference & Meet-Up @ EUROPEAN ROTORS 2022

It's Just Around the Corner – Don't forget to Register!

T-Minus and 20 days to go before this year's ASOG Conference & Meet-Up. With the ASOG Conference & Meet-Up embedded within the EUROPEAN ROTORS VTOL show & Conference, you'll be able to learn something new and network with fellow members & industry in one place. If you are interested in joining us, let us know.

DATE/TIME | Tuesday, 8 November to Thursday, 10 November 2022 / 1000 – 1700

LOCATION | Koelnmesse (Exhibition Centre), Cologne (Köln), Germany

LET US KNOW YOUR COMING | As an ASOG member, by sending us an e-mail highlighting your interest in attending; we'll include you in all aspects of the ASOG event, i.e., learning, connecting, and networking. Without a doubt, you'll have a great experience. Send your RSVP to info@aso-group.org  

EUROPEAN ROTORS 2022 | OFFICIAL WEBSITE

EUROPEAN ROTORS 2022 REGISTRATION | PURCHASE YOUR TICKETS 

ASOG AGENDA |

• ASOG Conference & Presentations – Tuesday, November 8, 2022 / 1300 – 1700, Stage 2
• ASOG Networking – Daily, Booth 1245
• Career Day – Wednesday, 9 November, Rheinsaal Section 1-6 & Booth 1245 (Bring your CV)
• ASOG Evening Informal Meet-Ups – Daily (After show hours, Cologne city center)

Floor Plan

THANK YOU TO OUR ASOG EVENT SPONSORS!

ASOG 2022 Focus Area: Industry Support

Posted By: ASOG Desk Editor

We're excited to announce that UMS SKELDAR is now an ASOG corporate supporter. UMS SKELDAR, a joint venture between Saab and UMS AERO Group, is Europe's leading provider of Rotary Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) platforms, including the unmatched NATO-compliant rotary SKELDAR V-200 and the smaller V-150 designed to support tactical operations for surveillance, emergency response, homeland security, and defense.

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

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

ASOG Corporate Supporters

ASOG 2022 Focus Area | News & Information

Shared By | ASOG Desk Editor

Published By | Heliops Magazine Issue 139, Nick Minx

Even though this article focuses on airborne Law Enforcement, it's a good piece highlighting the principles of building a safe and effective aircrew. To learn more, flip to page 18.

Pilot + TFO = Aircrew

ASOG 2022 Focus Area | News & Information

Shared By | ASOG Desk Editor

As part of our association charter to advocate and inform the world of the ASO profession, i.e., what it looks like, here is a video of an ASO (a.k.a., Mission Commander) with the Netherlands Ministry of Infrastructure and Water Management. Even though the audio is in Dutch, it's easy to see the work environment and the systems they use.

Save the Date and Make Time to Attend

ASOG Conference & Meet-Up @ EUROPEAN ROTORS 2022. If you didn't know, the EUROPEAN ROTORS organizers have made space at their next VTOL show and safety conference from 8 to 10 November in Cologne, Germany, for our association to conduct a conference & networking meet-up.

Our event will take place on 8 November. The conference will consist of presentations by ASOG members relating to the Airborne Sensor Operator career field, i.e., sensors, multi-missions, non-rated aircrew topics, aircraft, etc. Along with this, we'll have a booth for members to take a break and relax during "walking the floor," plus the chance to informally Meet-Up daily after the show for drinks & dinner.

Even though it's only two months out, mark the date and make time to attend. With the ASOG conference & meet-up embedded with an exceptional large aviation tradeshow, you'll be able to learn something new and network with fellow members & industry in one place. If you are interested, more information is available below.

Join us and be part of the group!

EUROPEAN ROTORS DATE/TIME | Tuesday, 8 November to Thursday, 10 November 2022 / 1000 – 1700

LOCATION | Koelnmesse (Exhibition Centre), Cologne (Köln), Germany

EUROPEAN ROTORS REGISTRATION | PURCHASE YOUR TICKETS 

ASOG AGENDA |

• ASOG Conference & Presentations – Tuesday, November 8, 2022 / 1300 – 1700, Stage 2
• ASOG Networking – Daily, Booth 1245
• Career Day – Wednesday, 9 November, Rheinsaal Section 1-6 & Booth 1245 (Bring your CV)
• ASOG Evening Informal Meet-Ups – Daily (After show hours, Cologne city center)

ASOG MEMBERS - LET US KNOW | As an ASOG member, by sending us an e-mail highlighting you're attending, we'll include you in all aspects of the event(s), i.e., learning, connecting, and networking. Without a doubt, you'll have a great experience. Let us know at info@aso-group.org   

BECOME AN ASOG EVENT SPONSOR | Sponsorship Opportunities – Increase your brand exposure while helping a good cause.

Sponsorship Benefits:

• Increase your brand with the ASOG community and over +800,000 connections.
• Opportunity to invite clients and staff to mingle without having to create your own event.
• Promote your company products & services to ASOG attendees.
• Show your support for the ASOG Association so we can keep growing to serve the men & women who are part of the Airborne Sensor Operator profession.

Sponsorship Options:

Platinum - €1000

• Special Advertisement Article – Your company can post one advertisement article on the ASOG website, and we will share it on ASOG's LinkedIn & Twitter profiles.
• ASOG Newsletter Special - Your company will be recognized in the ASOG global Newsletter one month before and one month after the event.
• Logo Recognition – We'll add your company logo on all pre-event-related event e-announcement media.
• ASOG Booth - Your company logo will be displayed in our booth area at the event.
• ASOG Website - Your company will be recognized on the ASOG website as a sponsor leading up to the event.
• ASOG Networking Events - Invitation to ASOG Informal (After Show) Networking Meet-Ups.

Gold - €750

• ASOG Newsletter Special - Your company will be recognized in the ASOG global Newsletter one month before and one month after the event.
• Logo Recognition – We'll add your company logo on all pre-event-related event e-announcement media.
• ASOG Booth - Your company logo will be displayed at the event in our booth area.
• ASOG Website - Your company will be recognized on the ASOG website as a sponsor leading up to the event.
• ASOG Networking Events - Invitation to ASOG Informal (After Show) Networking Meet-Ups.

Silver - €500      

• Logo Recognition – We'll add your company logo on all pre-event-related event e-announcement media.
• ASOG Booth - Your company logo will be displayed in our booth area at the event.
• ASOG Website - Your company will be recognized on the ASOG website as a sponsor leading up to the event.
• ASOG Networking Events - Invitation to ASOG Informal (After Show) Networking Meet-Ups.

To find out more about being an ASOG sponsor, contact info@aso-group.org.

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.

(Become a generous sponsor - Added Your Logo Here)

ASOG Article of the Month | September 2022

ASOG Author | Patrick Ryan

The learning curve never stops for those who use aircraft professionally. Increasing our knowledge and undertaking professional development is something to enjoy, but it's also something we, as non-rated aircrew members, should take seriously.

One of the essential elements of this ASO learning curve is having a good understanding of Airmanship. According to the FAA, Airmanship is defined as:

• A sound understanding with the principles of flight.
• The capability to operate an airplane with competence and precision both on the ground and in the air.
• The exercise of sound judgment results in optimal operational safety and efficiency.

One of the starting points of developing one's Airmanship is understanding the world of aircraft, i.e., the different types and classifications.

Simply put, an airplane (manned or unmanned) is a platform that can fly by obtaining help from the air. It respond to the force of gravity by using either static lift or the dynamic lift of an airfoil.

The primary factors that categorize the different aircraft types are Lighter-Than-Air (Aerostat) and Heavier-Than-Air (Aerodyne). The next level of classification is Non-Engine and Engine aircraft.

From this point, aircraft designs, technology, and capabilities differ in many aspects and categories. As shown in the figure below, aircraft types take on their unique technical characteristics, i.e., from Kite to Balloon; Fixed-Wing to Rotary-Wing, Amphibian, or Float; Propeller Propulsion to Rocket Propulsion; Tethered or Non-Tethered; Manned and Unmanned and more.

So now you know…Short & Sweet. An airplane is just not a fixed-wing aircraft or helicopter, and Lighter-than-Air is just not Blimps, but they all are part of a connect classification system. As mentioned before, as non-rated aircrew members, we should constantly improve our professional aviator skills & knowledge for safety and effectiveness reasons. In this case, Airmanship 101 – Aircraft Types & Classification.  

ASOG 2022 Focus Area| Training & Education

Shared By | George DeCock

Even though this share is for the defense folks in ASOG or, better yet, Electronic Warfare (EW) ASOs, other members might benefit from these courses. For example, I’ve been an Association of Old Crows (AOC) for many years. Their professional development courses are tailored for aircrew, technical, or marketing professionals new to Electronic Warfare.

These courses provide an excellent opportunity for you and your teammates to expand your knowledge in Electromagnetic Warfare at your own pace.

The current AOC course catalog includes courses on:

• Fundamental Principles of Electronic Warfare
• Advanced Principles of Electronic Warfare
• EW Against a New Generation of Threats
• Communications EW
• 21st Century Electronic Warfare, Systems, Technology, and Techniques
• And more….

Even though I might come from the EW aircrew analog era, I’ve learned to keep up with current changes with courses like these. Like ASOG, the AOC does a great job of focusing on the needs of the ASO and the communities supporting it.

For more informtion related to these courses, jump over to: AOC On-Demand Courses

ASOG 2022 Focus Areas | News & Information, Networking, Events

Posted: ASOG Desk Editor & George DeCock

George DeCock, our ASOG traveling Ambassador, asked us in the News Room to share his list of recommended defense & public safety trade shows and conferences regarding networking & professional development.

If you didn’t know, George has a long history of attending these shows. So, if he recommends it, it really means something. Plus, George is going to attend many of these shows. So, if you want to expand your network, reach out to George and connect or attend solo.   

• AirPower/Sep2-3                               Zeltweg/Austria **Spontaneous ASOG Meet-Up**
• HeliTech/Sept07-08                           London/England
• Sanicole/Sep10-11                            Hechtel/Belgium
• AAD/Sept21-25                                Waterkloof/SAfrica
• C4ISR /Sept28-29                             Athens/Greece
• GSOF/Oct4-6                                    Budapest/Hungary
• GDH/Oct18-20                                  WARSAW/Poland
• EuroNaval/Oct18-21                           Paris/France
• HeliShow/Oct24-26                            Dubai/UAE
• IndoDefence/Nov02-05                       Jakarta/Indonesia
• EUROPEAN ROTORS/Nov08-10      KOLN/Germany  **ASOG Conference & Meet-Up**
• Electronica/Now13-19                         Munich/Germany
• Avalon Airshow/Jan2023                     Avalon/Australia

If you have a list of trade shows or conferences (especially in the commercial aviation sector) that you think would be an excellent event for ASOGers to network and professionally develop? Please send it to the ASOG Desk Editor at deskeditor@aso-group.org.

ASOG 2022 Focus Area | Networking

Posted By | ASOG Desk Editor

Before getting started, we would like to thank all Austrian Detachment II/7 – Air Police men and women for hosting the Airborne Sensor Operators Group. With their super professionalism, dedication, and service, the world is definitely a safer place.

The local ASOG Vienna Austria members had a spontaneous opportunity to Meet-Up and network last weekend (Saturday, 27 August 2022). Like other past ASOG Meet-Ups, it was a great chance to network with other sensor operators, industry, and their families in the local area.

ASOG member Dominik Grimm (Austrian Police Officer, Tactical Flight Officer) arranged a tour for his fellow ASOG members (plus, families) around his Police Aviation Unit's busy schedule at the Vienna International Airport.

The tour included a fantastic overview of their mission, a walk-around of their base operations, observing a quick-response launch and recovery security patrol, and a detailed TFO powered-up workstation experience.

Following the tour, Networking continued at a nearby Gasthaus for lunch. Again, like previous Meet-Ups, new professional friendships came about, and great professional topics were discussed.

Based on the feedback from Dominik's unit and the ASOG members who attended, this tour and ASOG Meet-Up were great successes. As many of you know, organizing professional networking events is one of the core functions of the Airborne Sensor Operators Group, i.e., breaking down barriers and opening doors for like-minded professionals.

The Next ASOG Meet-Up

The next ASOG Meet-Up will be held at the EUROPEAN ROTORS 2022 VTOL show and safety conference from 8 to 10 November in Cologne, Germany. If you didn't know, the EUROPEAN ROTORS organizers have made space for our association to conduct a conference & meet-up.

Our conference will take place on the 8^th (Stage 2, 1300 to 1700). The conference will consist of presentations by ASOG members relating to the Airborne Sensor Operator career field, i.e., sensors, multi-missions, non-rated aircrew topics, aircraft, etc. Along with this, ASOG will have a base camp for members to hang out and relax throughout the show, i.e., AV Buyer Magazine | GA Buyer Europe Magazine Booth.

Even though it's only three months out, mark the date and make time to attend. With the ASOG conference & meet-up embedded with an exceptional large aviation tradeshow, you'll be able to learn something new and network in one place. In the weeks to come, we'll start posting more information. However, if you have any questions prior, please let us know.

ASOG Article of the Month | August 2022

ASOG Author | Patrick Ryan

The phrase "staying ahead of the aircraft" is essential for every non-rated aircrew member. It doesn't matter if you're an Aerial Survey ASO, Hollywood Cinematographer, or Tactical Flight Officer, i.e., operating manned or unmanned aircraft. Staying ahead of every action or phase of flight in the flying business is a true sign of a professional ASO vs. you being a burden or a risk factor! Learning how is a survival skill that will serve you later when you fly faster, more workload-intensive aircraft.

To better understand this aviator concept or best practice mindset further, there are two other aspects to add to understanding your operational performance: "Are you behind the aircraft" or "With the Aircraft!" In other words, you must think and act ahead of events at 150+ knots for hours. So, what is this concept all about, and how can you fly like a professional aviator? First, let's start with what is staying ahead of the airplane.

What is "Staying Ahead of the Airplane?"

Even though some might say "Staying ahead of the airplane" is a vague concept. However, the concept is actually a practical exercise in mental discipline, i.e., training yourself to think and act during a flight. It only requires you constantly receive, process, and act on information or situations before, during, and during a flight. The foundation of this concept is based on good "situational awareness."

Along with this, a non-rated aircrew member's job is to take action before a task is required. All this processing of information and thinking ahead will mitigate task saturation (a.k.a, helmet fires), falling "Behind the Aircraft," or worst yet, causing an accident, e.g., straying off course, damaging a sensor, or not backing up your crew during critical phases of flight.

How to "Stay Ahead of the Airplane?"

To put it simply, don't wait for something to happen! Instead, prepare for or accomplish a task that you realistically can do ahead of time for those things or actions that will relate to your flight. This effort could be a few minutes before it is needed or days before the flight begins. Here are some examples of what "Staying Ahead of the Airplane" looks like.

Before Flight

• Identify and pack essential documents and gear related to your flight.
• Fully power up essential electrical handheld equipment or systems, e.g., smartphones, laptops, power bars, etc.
• Identify and double-check essential phone numbers, mission software, e-operator manuals, checklist, frequencies, codes, etc., related to your flight.
• Study the flight in detail, i.e., in relation to Aviate (Alternate airfields, airspace classifications, weather, etc.), Navigate (route, terrain elevation, etc.), and Communicate (radio frequencies, essential phone numbers, etc.)
• Arranging things in the order they'll be needed.
• Place essential items in the cockpit within easy reach.
• Mark or "favorite" things for easy identification.
• Inspect and test essential equipment before the flight.
• And more…

During Flight

• Again, inspect and test essential equipment after take-off.
• Input and cross-check required frequencies, waypoints, and other information before their use, e.g., transitioning from en route to the collection area.
• Put away essential items that are not in use and pull out essential items before the appropriate phase of flight, e.g., climb, en route, landing, etc.
• Review checklist or think of actions required for the next leg or phase of flight.
• Monitor current and forecast weather along your planned and alternate routes.
• And more…

After a Flight

• Stow and arrange equipment and documents for the next flight.
• Address any maintenance issue immediately, i.e., stay ahead of any issues that might delay or cause a problem for the next flight.
• And more…

Conclusion

Once again, "staying ahead of the aircraft" is essential for every non-rated aircrew member. There are many things you could be doing. However, it consists of thinking ahead of all those little things that add to the big picture of having a smooth and successful flight or mission.

Bottom line, if you're sitting peacefully watching the ground underneath you fly by, you're probably "falling behind the aircraft." Don't forget, if you're being paid to fly as an aircrew member, you are not a passenger but a professional aviator…even if you're non-rated. So with that, you should constantly think and work ahead before, during, and after every flight.

ASOG 2022 Focus Area | Industry Support

Posted By |ASOG Desk Editor

We're ecstatic to announce that "AvPay – The Aviation Market Place & Directory" is now an ASOG corporate supporter. It's fantastic to see the aviation community reach out to our non-profit aircrew association and lend a hand to the shadow crewmembers of aviation. Besides AvPay becoming a supporter, they are adding us to their amazing webpage under "Aviation Charities Directory."

If you didn't know, AvPay is an Aviation Marketplace & Directory that lets companies present their brand, products & services in front of the market while empowering consumers by allowing them to search and find the company, product, or service they require.

To learn more about AvPay and its services, check them out on the ASOG Corporate Supporter page (click their Logo).

ASOG 2022 Focus Area | News & Information, Networking

Posted By | ASOG Desk Editor

Members in the Picture | Upper Left Image - Hector Estevez Pomar (CENTUM research & technology), Scott Hillman (IMSAR) . Upper Right Image - Michael Estigoy (SkyIMD), Patrick Ryan (ASOG President)

Another first for our growing ASOG association and our mission of providing the means to network around the globe, we conducted our first North American ASOG networking “Meet-Up” last week at this year’s Airborne Public Safety Association Conference (APSCON) held in Reno, Nevada.

It was a fantastic opportunity and venue for a good number of ASOG members to meet informally and connect in person, focusing on aircrew roles, sensor operations, and work-related opportunities.

If you’re interested in participating in an ASOG Meet-Up, keep an eye out for future announcements, or if you want to conduct your own ASOG Meet-Up, the ASOG staff will help you organize it and get the word out. Just PM us at info@aso-group.org.

Speaking of that, our next ASOG Meet-Up is planned for 8 November 2022 at the EUROPEAN ROTORS Conference & Trade Show in Cologne, Germany. It will be an excellent opportunity for ASOs and other aircrew members from across the spectrum of Aerial Work aviation sectors (commercial, public safety & defense) to meet, network, and learn something new.

ASOG 2022 Focus Area | Industry Support

Posted By |ASOG Desk Editor

We're thrilled to announce that OFIL Systems is now an ASOG corporate supporter. It's fantastic to see special sensor OEMs like OFIL recognize the importance of the Airborne Sensor Operator profession and the mission of the ASOG association. 

If you didn't know, OFIL develops and  manufactures UV Bi-spectral optical and digital inspection systems with embedded proprietary patented Solar Blind technology. OFIL aims to provide precise solutions for science, industry, and environmental wellness. OFIL owns the brand name DayCor® which stands for Daytime Corona detection. 

To learn more about OFIL and its products, check them out on the ASOG Corporate Supporter page (click their Logo). – OR - You can PM Peter Schaffer (ASOG Member) and send him a message via the ASOG e-mail service.

ASOG 2022 Focus Area | News & Information

Posted By | ASOG Safety Center

“An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.”  Benjamin Franklin

Hey, Airborne Sensor Operator, do you have the will to survive? As Airborne Sensors Operators (ASO), our work environment is often in remote areas, over every type of terrain, and during every season around the world. So if an aircrew makes a forced landing, or if an sUAS/RPA ground surveying crew has a vehicle problem in a harsh situation or gets lost on a job in a very remote location, they need to know the basic skills to stay alive and safe until rescue comes.

Up to this period, military ASOs and a large percentage of the public Safety sector ASOs (Law Enforcement, SAR, First Responders, etc.) have received Aircrew Survival Training, be it ground (Summer/Winter) or water survival. However, many on the civilian or commercial side of the ASO community have not.

The point of this post is to provide “food for thought” for those civil or commercial Airborne Sensor Operators. They routinely are in a position to be in “harm’s way” when flying in an aircraft or traversing remote terrain with their sUAS/RPAs. Additionally, because many governments and companies don’t require ASOs to obtain Aircrew Survival Training, they run a very high risk of “not making it” if they have a “bad day at the office!”

For those commercial ASOs who had training when they were in the military or received private training many years ago, a refresher course or a personal “Safety Stand-down Day” to review the basics to knock the rust off would recalibrate your skills. Remember, ”if you don’t use it, you lose it!” 

For those commercial ASOs who have never thought of this area of their professional ASO development kit, the essential tracks one can take to prepare better for a “bad day at the office” are:

Track 1 (Self-Study):

A few of the larger civil aviation organizations worldwide and some nongovernment organizations provide free information, courses, or online programs regarding surviving after a forced landing or in a wilderness survival situation. Additionally, you can find open-source training products and videos on the internet. Overall, even though this information is worded to manned aircraft pilots, as you know, the same applies to unmanned aircrew members and all manned aircraft non-pilot crewmembers. Below is just a sample of sources available:

• AOPA Survival Safety
• FAA Basic Survival Training
• Aircrew Survival Course | HMRS (capranger.org)

Track 2 (Training Course):

The second track is taking a course for a fee, which should consist of classroom and field exercises. There are many companies around the world which provide such services and the type of training varies. In general, these programs typically provide participants with the skills and knowledge to:

• Prepare for an emergency (Gear/kits, Contingency Planning, etc.)
• React to a forced landing (land/water-based) or ground-event emergency
• Care for themselves in a survival situation
• Utilize available survival equipment
• Participate to the maximum extent in their rescue.

To sum it up, If you’re a professional ASO who works sensors onboard an aircraft or off-board a UAS/RPA in remote locations but have no training, are you prepared to handle or, better yet, have the “Will to Survive” a life-threatening event? Again, “Food for Thought”!

ASOG 2022 Focus Area | Industry Support

Posted By |ASOG Desk Editor

We're pleased to announce that QinetiQ Canada is now an ASOG corporate supporter. It's great to see large corporations like QinetiQ recognize the importance of the Airborne Sensor Operator profession and the mission of the ASOG association. 

If you didn't know, QinetiQ Canada delivers a growing range of mission-led solutions to Canadian Defence and Security organizations. Focusing on Target and Surveillance Systems, Tests, Evaluation, Training, and Mission Readiness, their highly engaged teams work with customers throughout the entire life cycle of a project to ensure they are capable and mission ready. From their primary locations in Medicine Hat, Alberta, and Ottawa, Ontario, they deploy across Canada to produce results leveraging the brightest minds, innovative technology, and decades of customer-centric service delivery.

To learn more about QinetiQ Canada and its services, check them out on the ASOG Corporate Supporter page ASOG Corporate Supporters (click their Logo). – OR - You can PM Gary Micklethwaite (ASOG Member) and send him a message via the ASOG e-mail service.

ASOG Article of the Month | June 2022

ASOG Author | Patrick Ryan

Many times, I get asked why I started the ASOG association. There are many reasons for people to do this type of innovative social effort to bring professional people & organizations together for a public reason. Making an opportunity to advance one’s professional career to put food on the table is one of them. Creating an environment to share the opportunity to make this occur is another. Having such a place like ASOG allows this to happen!

Around 2013, I was the Program Manager of an Aerial Remote-Sensing project in Africa. This project was rapidly expanding, i.e., we quickly needed another aircraft and crew to support it. While going through the recruitment process, I had difficulty finding qualified Airborne Sensor Operators. At the time, I thought I would have a better chance of finding suitable operators if I contacted an Airborne Sensor Operator association. However, as I was searching, both over the internet and through my own professional ASO network, it hit me that no association focused on the non-rated sensor operators existed, i.e., a place to network, learn, or find the next job!

So why do I do this? I do it for myself and the others in and around the ASO profession. I do it for these reasons:

• Continuing my education & learning
• Searching for Job or business prospects
• Mentoring and instructing others
• Expanding my Network
• Access to professional resources
• Obtaining new perspectives & professional Viewpoints
• Certification assistance
• Connecting with like-minded professionals

Since developing the ASOG association, I can genuinely say the above reasons or benefits have happened to me. My learning curve regarding learning something new has taken off. Plus, my professional network has expanded tenfold. I’ve also been offered several jobs because of my activity with ASOG.

So, that is why I started ASOG. I started for myself and others, i.e., providing a professional place for new or active aircrew members to develop professionally. Plus, it’s a place for those interested or part of the ASO professional eco-system, e.g., educators, engineers, managers, pilots, supervisors, manufacturers, integrators, etc. The bottom line is that the more robust ASOG becomes, the benefits and rewards intensify for everyone.

With that, if you want to belong with like-minded professionals and professionally develop, you are welcome to join us!