by W D Adkins

Created on: April 30, 2008

An engine failure, electrical malfunction, or even a blown tire can cause a deadly aircraft accident. The best way to survive an in-flight emergency is to prevent it from happening in the first place. That is why pre-flight checks are used to make sure all the systems of an aircraft are in working order and all preparations have been made, minimizing the chance of a malfunction. Pilots follow a set of specified procedures, using a written checklist so nothing is overlooked.

Pre-flight checks begin with planning the flight. Pilots select their route, and calculate distance, flight time, and fuel consumption. Weather forecasts along the planned route are checked. If the weather is dangerous, the flight will be delayed or rerouted.

The physical pre-flight check of the aircraft begins with the "walk around" in which the pilot, checklist in hand, inspects the exterior of the aircraft. Engines are checked for any signs of damage or leaking oil and the wings and fuselage are examined for signs of damage (making sure no rivets have come out, for instance). Each aileron, elevator, or other control surface is checked to see that it is moving freely.

A host of smaller details are also checked as well, including radio antennas, fuel tank caps, and the tires. The written checklist contains reminders; for example, to release the tie-down lines that anchor the plane on the ground. This might sound silly, but it is easy to forget. Many a pilot has damaged an airplane by trying to taxi with the pane still tied down!

The final phase of the pre-flight check takes place in the cockpit. Instruments, radios, and controls are turned on and tested to make sure they are working and adjusted to the proper settings. The engines are started and put through their paces. Finally, the pilot checks emergency equipment and to see that required documentation (like the Airworthiness Certificate) are on board and up-to-date.

Pilots should always follow these basic safety procedures. The checklist and pre-flight check are designed to make sure nothing is taken for granted. By adhering to these procedures, the pilot can be sure nothing is overlooked, even if he or she is tired or in a hurry.

For an informative look at an online lesson on preflight inspections, try this: http://www.firstflight.com/lessons/flt00.htm

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