You are ready to explore the horizon with your crew and passengers, flying a mechanized bird through the sky, and that definitely calls for a checklist to follow!
Here’s what you must do without fail before you fasten your seat belt:
1) Checking The Logbooks Before Takeoff
As the pilot in command, it is essential that you check the logbooks to make sure that the aircraft is airworthy of flying because the responsibility of the cabin crew and passengers is on your shoulders.
2) Official Weather Updates
By checking 1800wxbrief Online, you can get timely weather information that will be useful in-flight.
3) Get A Briefing On NOTAMs And TFRs Affecting The Flight Route
It is essential to talk to the ATC so that you do not break any NOTAM or bust a TFR during the flight session. It is always better to be prepared especially when flying an aircraft as your decisions affect the lives of many.
4) The Weight And Balance/Fuel Calculation
Before the take-off, you need to take into consideration what type of trip it is i.e. cross-country or overnight and also do the weight and balance calculation to be on the safer side.
5) A Performance Calculation
Calculating the aircraft performance beforehand is helpful as it allows you to do a proper take-off and landing.
6) Get Familiar With The Terms
Becoming familiar with the terms like frequencies, airspace, and airports before the take-off is an essential part of your job description. Fumbling mid-flight for answers doesn’t sit well.
7) Plan Ahead For Diversions
Always have a back-up plan ready. Planning the route to fly over airports helps you in case of bad weather, in-flight emergencies, or in case one needs a break.
8) Do A Thorough Preflight Check
It is essential to manually check the fuel, tires, oil level, control surfaces, engine, and other systems before the flight takes off. A preflight check helps to avoid unexpected accidents because of technical errors.
9) Setting Up Your Cockpit
You have your own way of flying and also a certain way in which you like your cockpit to be. Make your adjustments before the flight so that you are comfortable.
10) Give Confidence To Your Passengers
Talking to the passengers is a great start. Explain to them what you are doing and why; this helps the newbies to calm down and adjust well.
11) Create Reachable Checklists
Make sure that your checklist and the emergency checklists are within reach so that you do not panic at times of emergency situations.
12) No Need To Rush
Fly at your own comfort, and if you feel like something is missing then take the right decision. You must have a cool head on you before you fly.
With all these steps in line, you are all set to take off!