Page 21 - Nov 2015 Volume 9, Number 11

SOPsStandard Operating Procedures, or SOPs, are any routine and repeatable way to accomplish a task. SOPs naturally evolve for two main reasons:• They’re the simplest or quickest way to do something, and• Theycoverallthenecessarytasksintheproperorder, with little chance something is left out.• SOPsminimizeworkloadandensurethattheresults of our inputs are predictable. They ensure you both do things right and do the right thing.Here’s an example of flying with an SOP. Flying a Model 58 Baron, I’m on vectors for an ILS approach. After briefing for the approach and setting up the cockpit, I reference an approach checklist I wrote to make sure I’ve not forgotten anything. Given the final vector to intercept the localizer inbound, I enter an “approach configuration”:• Manifold pressure: 16 inches• Propeller speed: 2500 rpm• Mixture: As required for field elevation• Flaps: Approach (15˚)• Airspeed: 120 knots indicated• Trim: SetWhen the glideslope centers, I extend the gear and establish the proper pitch attitude and rate of descent to track the glideslope. Two outcomes result from using this SOP:• I don’t have to “make it up as I go,” so my workload is much lower, and I’m mentally freed up for the navigation tasks without having to work hard on basic aircraft control.• The resulting approach performance is extremely predictable, so I can quickly detect the effects of winds and turbulence and make minor changes to keep the needles centered. This sounds like a good way to fly an airplane: low workload, with high predictability.You might do things differently. That’s fine, as long as you have some standard procedure. The technique will differ with different types of aircraft. The important point is to do things in a way that the airplane’s performance is very predictable. This lets you concentrate on the larger picture of navigation and situational awareness while flying an approach.Middle-Of-The-Envelope SafetyYou might say that a main function of standard operating procedures is to keep the airplane safely in the middle of the flight envelope. With rare exception, most of us never need to squeeze the maximum performanceJANUARY 2016Air Capitol Dial Quarter Page 4/C AdSelect Airparts Quarter Page 4/C AdTWIN & TURBINE • 19