COMDTINST M3710.1I — Coast Guard Air Operations Manual

COMDTINST M3710.1I prescribes policy applicable to all Coast Guard aircraft and guides aviation mission planning and execution.

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  • Publication number: COMDTINST M3710.1I
  • Title: COAST GUARD AIR OPERATIONS MANUAL
  • Date: 3/29/2021
  • Proponent: CG-711

View COMDTINST M3710.1I on armypubs.army.mil


Its chapters address authority and control of flights, mission requests, risk management, training, qualifications, flight planning, aircraft operations, and passenger transport. It sets requirements for clearances, preflight planning, crew qualifications, flight conduct, emergency procedures, and transportation.

Applies to: This Manual prescribes policy applicable to all aircraft operated by the Coast Guard.

Topics covered

  • Aviation mission planning
  • Flight authority and control
  • Aircrew designations and qualifications
  • Aircraft operations
  • Passenger transport
  • Mission request coordination
  • Flight risk management
  • Aerial deliveries

Questions and answers

What clearance does a PIC need before a Coast Guard flight?

A PIC receives clearance for a flight from the Commanding Officer. (paragraph 2)

What must the PIC review before any flight?

At a minimum, the PIC shall be familiar with applicable performance data at all intended and alternate airfields, weather for the route of flight, fuel reserve requirements, aircraft weight and balance, flight restrictions as applicable to MEDEVAC missions, NOTAMs, special use airspace, Air Defense Identification Zones and foreign clearance requirements relevant to the mission. (paragraph 1)

How long are aviation personnel restricted from flight after drinking alcohol?

Aviation personnel are restricted from aerial flight for 12 hours after last alcohol use and must have no residual effects. (paragraph 2)

What medication may personnel engaged in flight operations take?

Personnel engaged in flight operations shall not take any medication/supplement unless prescribed and/or approved by a flight surgeon or other qualified aviation medicine provider in accordance with the Coast Guard Aviation Medicine Manual, COMDTINST M6410.3 (series) or current aeromedical policy letters on medication use. (paragraph 6)

Are parachute jumps from USCG helicopters allowed?

Parachute jumps from USCG helicopters are prohibited. (paragraph 3)

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