Page 16 - Twin and Turbine September 2017

Jet Journal
Seven Habits of a Disciplined
Single Pilot
by Jacob Tyler
We all hold on to the memory of the first time we soloed – an event that likely took place in a training aircraft flown at a familiar airport. The weather was fair and a flight instructor watchfully stood nearby. Today, many of us are flying larger, faster turbine aircraft and
facing far more complex systems and conditions. Yet, one aspect may remain the same: a single pilot at the controls.
It has been said that flying single-pilot IFR is the most challenging type of flying a pilot can undertake. So, how can one person perform the job of two and achieve a safe outcome every flight? Practicing the following seven healthy habits can help:
1. Plan Ahead
The FAA addresses preflight action with a blanket statement in FAR 91.103 stating, “each pilot in command shall, before beginning a flight, become familiar with all available information concerning that flight.”
Airlines and large charter operators accomplish this by enlisting dispatchers to compile release paperwork for each flight containing weather, NOTAMS, aircraft performance and much more. On the other hand, a single pilot operating a turbine aircraft is only one brain and two hands. How can your planning equal the that of larger flying operations? Preparation, practice and discipline.
While many pilots typically only utilize checklists in the cockpit, checklists can also ensure steps are not missed prior to the flight. By developing a custom preflight planning checklist, you can safeguard against information slipping through the cracks. If you have an EFB, you can create this checklist in your notes app.
Receiving your IFR clearance prior to startup is another great way to relieve workload. Do you have access to a transceiver in your hangar or FBO? Better yet, does your aircraft have a ground operations switch which allows you to power only a communications radio and/or some selected flight planning avionics? How about a GPU? Picking up your clearance in advance allows you more time to review your departure procedure, plot your route and take note of any weather or delays that you may expect.
14 • TWIN & TURBINE
September 2017
PHOTO CREDIT: GLENN WATSON