I am in the middle of the FAA's switch over to the new certification procedures. We had a Zoom meeting that apparently left a lot of us scratching our heads. We had a second Zoom meeting that confirmed that it is still in "Beta mode" even though it has been mandatory to use the new portal since JUly 1st.
How it is supposed to work is the applicant goes to the new AWC portal, completes their paperwork on the site, and the FAA contacts the DAR he has chosen for his certification. We get the message that you want to use our services, look over your submitted papers (all of them; now including Application, builder's log, program letter, Eligibility statement, registration certificate, wgt & bal, 51% and pre-inspection and in process tech inspection pre-cover sign offs, 3 view pictures or drawings of the aircraft and, if turbine powered, a maintenance manual for the aircraft)
I still do all of the paperwork and submit it for my applicants. This may change if they ever make it user friendly for civilians
I'll bet I have around 50 hours working on two Helicycle certifications in progress since pre-Covid. The glitches in the system, at this time, preclude the applicant from trying to make heads or tails of the process. I have about 5 other certifications in line as well. I expect to get the (2) FSDOs approvals next week. I have been a DAR for over 20 years and it was quite simple in the old days. All of the "approvals" were after the fact as the DAR has the responsibility to perform correctly. All of this new system is based around perfection, without ANY discrepancies. Errors require manpower to correct and the FAA plans to make drastic cuts in there employee pool (according to a very reliable source)
About the 40 hour No Solo controversy in your own aircraft. All that is required, according to the aircraft's operating limitations
FROM THE OPS LIMITS GENERATOR
" 6. The pilot in command of this aircraft must hold Rotorcraft category and Gyroplane class certificate or privilege. The pilot in command must hold all required ratings or authorizations, and endorsements required by 14 CFR part 61. " When we asked about this limitation, we were told that the line "or privilege" is a student solo endorsement in their log book. I have found that this is not common knowledge in the field.