Page 13 - Nov22T

proactively apply the antidote increases the risk of a devas- tating error at an exponential rate. Sometimes sleep is not convenient. The same can be true of training. But both are major contributors to the safety record. And the proliferation of technology has made self-training easier than ever. It is remarkable how much proficiency you can gain with a PC and a flight simulator. You just need to set aside the time.
Most check rides begin with a knowledge validation. It is important to understand the high points of regulations and aircraft systems in order to safely function in the air. Here is a little secret to orals: Your examiner knows within the first five minutes whether you will pass. If you know your aircraft limitations by heart, understand the guid- ing principles of airspace and weather, and can figure out weight and balance without too much heartburn, you will be in good shape. Nobody expects perfection. You just need to be able to demonstrate that you have, at the very least, the basics covered.
It is nice to be able to describe the fuel system to the nth degree, but so long as you have the high points (how to check for contaminants, how much you need to carry), you will most likely survive both an oral and an average flight. Still, it is better to aim high than for the bare minimum. That said, unused knowledge erodes quickly, so memorizing an entire manual is a fool’s errand. If there is a knob or a switch that can be operated from the flight deck, it is good to know exactly what it does. Otherwise, being able to ef- fectively reference the information in the Aircraft Manual is enough for the sake of safety.
Being prepared for an event will not only facilitate a less stressful check ride (not to mention the ignominy of a pink slip), but it will also make you a better pilot. And while nearly all pilots place a focus on reviewing regulatory and systems knowledge in anticipation of a training event, it is equally important to keep fresh during day-to-day life. A periodic review of aviation subjects produces greater clarity and confidence when operating an aircraft. Be sure to take the regulatory environment seriously. The FARs were written in blood. Do not add a chapter of your own. Remember the most damaging gotchas are often generated from fundamental mistakes.
Go fast, but not too fast. Stay out of the soup unless you are current and rated. Go around if you are unstable. Review any material that you are not current with. When things get swirlingly complex in the air, simplify. Watch your speed, maintain a stable attitude, and get vectors to a safe location where you can chew on alternatives. There are very few situations in an aircraft requiring a rapid decision. If you get confused, focus first on flying the aircraft. Once you are stable, take a breath and consider your options. Perfection is elusive. Operating safely is not.
Aero Leds
https://Preferredairparts.com
Select
http:/Aeroleds.com
Stan Dunn has 8,000-plus hours in turbine-powered aircraft, with three years of experience as an instructor and evaluator for airline pilots. Stan publishes detailed coverage of aviation accidents at bellmanmultimedia.com/flying. You can contact Stan at Stan@bellmanmultimedia.com.
November 2022 / TWIN & TURBINE • 11