Division (b) Notwithstanding (a) and except for parachute operations, short excursions of a specified duration above 13 000 ft without using supplemental oxygen on other-than-complex aeroplanes and helicopters may be undertaken with a prior approval of the CAA based on the consideration of the following:F1F2

the duration of the excursion above 13 000 ft is not more than 10 minutes or, if needed for a longer period, the time strictly necessary to the accomplishment of the specialised task;

the flight is not conducted above 16 000 ft;

the safety briefing in accordance with SPO.OP.135 includes adequate information to crew members and tasks specialists on the effects of hypoxia;

SOPs for the concerned operation reflecting (1), (2) and (3);

the previous experience of the operator in conducting operations above 13 000 ft without using supplemental oxygen;

the individual experience of crew members and task specialists and their physiological adaptation to high altitudes; and

the altitude of the base where the operator is established or the operations are conducted from.