Safety Checklist

Flying planes is a thrilling experience, however it is important to note that safety is a top priority. A comprehensive pre-flight safety checklist is essential to ensure that the passengers, and the aircraft are in optimal condition for a safe journey. Thorough checklists are capable of identifying inherent human errors, and also provide a safety net.

Let’s get into a bit of a history of the safety checks:

For almost 30 years, planes were flown without any mandate to perform any pre-flight checks. However, that changed in 1935 due to an incident that happened with a Boeing 299 at Wright Field in Ohio. The crash resulted in fatalities, and it was discovered that the pilots had forgotten to disengage the gust locks. This critical event resulted in the management and engineers at Boeing introducing a pre-flight safety checklist. There has, however, been a steady decrease in aircraft incidents since the implementation of the safety checklist. 

Why is it important to go through a checklist before each flight?

It is not uncommon that people may be tempted to think that just because we have gone through checklists before a few flights, we can remember all of it. A checklist may, at times, seem to be a lot of work, especially when we are excited to take the flight. However it is important to note that it is crucial to double check our memory, by going through the complete checklist to avoid any mishaps. Checklists help eliminate errors and omissions caused by the urge to rush through the pre-flight safety inspection, and research documentation shows the trends of common issues in flight safety.

Let's walk through the key steps for a flight safety checklist:

Pre-flight Preparation:

Weather Check:

- Review the current & forecasted weather conditions along your route.

- Pay attention to significant weather phenomena, such as thunderstorms, turbulence, or icing conditions.

Exterior Inspection:

- Walk around the aircraft, checking for any visible damage or loose parts.

- Ensure all fuel caps are securely fastened.

- Inspect the tires for proper inflation and condition.

- Look for obstructions in the pitot tube and static ports.

- Drain the fuel to check for contaminants 

Fuel Level:

- Check that you have an adequate amount of fuel for your planned flight.

- Ensure that there is extra reserve fuel to account for extra flight time due to weather conditions, route deviations, or unexpected delays.

Oil Level

- Verify the engine oil level is within the recommended range.

Interior Inspection:

- Verify the seats, seatbelts, and harnesses are in good condition.

- Ensure the cabin is free from loose objects that could become projectiles during flight.

- Check that all instruments and avionics are functional.

First Aid Kit:

- Ensure a well-stocked first aid kit is onboard.

- Familiarize yourself with its contents and usage.

Seatbelts:

- Instruct passengers on how to fasten and unfasten their seatbelts.

Emergency Procedures:

- Brief passengers on basic emergency procedures, including how to open the door in case of an emergency.

Lights:

- Ensure all external and cockpit lights are operational.

Controls:

- Verify that all control surfaces (ailerons, elevator, rudder) move freely and in the correct direction.

Avionics:

- Verify that radios, transponders, and navigation equipment are set to the correct frequencies and settings.

Clear Area:

- Ensure no one is near the aircraft when starting the engine.

Clear Propeller:

- Shout "Clear Prop" to warn others before starting the engine.

By following a comprehensive flight safety checklist, you are taking important steps to ensure a safe and enjoyable flight. Remember, aviation safety should always be your utmost priority. Fly safely, and enjoy the skies!

Sources:

Preflight Checklist: Wikipedia

AOPA: Before Takeoff Checklist, Understanding the benefits of Segmented Checklists by Ralph Butcher

Preflight Checklists are crucial to Safety by PilotMall.com Editor (July 27, 2023)