Aero-Tips!
A good pilot is always learning -- how many times have you heard
this old standard throughout your flying career? There is no truer
statement in all of flying (well, with the possible exception of
"there are no old, bold pilots.") It's part of what makes aviation
so exciting for all of us... just when you think you've seen it
all, along comes a scenario you've never imagined.
Aero-News has called upon the expertise of Thomas P. Turner,
master CFI and all-around-good-guy, to bring our readers -- and us
-- daily tips to improve our skills as aviators, and as
representatives of the flying community. Some of them, you may have
heard before... but for each of us, there will also be something we
might never have considered before, or something that didn't
"stick" the way it should have the first time we memorized it for
the practical test.
It is our unabashed goal that "Aero-Tips" will help our readers
become better, safer pilots -- as well as introducing our
ground-bound readers to the concepts and principles that keep those
strange aluminum-and-composite contraptions in the air... and allow
them to soar magnificently through it.
Look for our daily Aero-Tips segments, coming each day to you
through the Aero-News Network. Suggestions for future Aero-Tips are
always welcome, as are additions or discussion of each day's tips.
Remember... when it comes to being good pilots, we're all in this
together.
Aero-Tips 03.14.06
When does modern automation make the cockpit too busy for a
single pilot? FAA is considering the possibility that modern
avionics may require a second pilot in some cases.
FAA Advisory Circular 23-1523,
Minimum Flight Crew, includes this language:
"For many years, [aircraft] cockpits were rather simple in
design, and used instruments and systems that were also similar in
operation. This made it rather easy for pilots to transition safely
from one [model of] airplane to another. However, in recent years
because of the growth of modern technology and the reduced cost of
electronic components, novel and more complex integrated avionics
systems are increasingly being installed…. These new systems
have changed the appearance, operation and usability of the
pilot-vehicle interface. There is also much variation between
manufacturers in the design and operational characteristics of
these systems. So, there is a concern that pilot(s) familiar and
proficient with one system may not be able to understand
sufficiently and operate another system. Although many of these
systems can improve pilot situational awareness and safety, poorly
designed systems can increase pilot workload, and increase the
potential for pilot error. Also, the lack of standardization in the
design and operation of these systems can negatively affect pilot
training and impact performance and safety. So there is a need to
more closely examine pilot workload and error potential in these
complex, integrated cockpits."
The Aviation Consumer concludes that no
matter what brand of equipment installed in a Technologically
Advanced Aircraft (TAA), "you must fly the [avionics] system
regularly to maintain useable proficiency. If you’re not
flying for business or pleasure at least once a week, find a local
instructor or safety pilot who is fluent in the system you have and
go exercise those glass panels regularly."
Aero-tip of the day: Modern "glass" avionics
provide a tremendous potential for improvement in situational
awareness and safety. High-end avionics also have the potential to
overwhelm pilots who do not very frequently practice their use.
Flying a TAA? Plan to fly it at least once a week to be truly
safe.