The FAA, in an
apparent urge to "do something" after last month's Comair
Flight 5191 tragedy, has published Safety Alert For Operators
(SAFO) 06013 containing suggestions and recommendations for
training programs.
Although no specific mention is made of Flight 5191, background
for the alert refers to the "recent tragic accident of a commuter
jet taking off from the wrong runway." In what one might reasonably
consider to be a preview of findings, the alert notes that "many
airports are involved with construction projects that result in
changing environments."
The bulk of the specific recommendations are listed under the
heading "Reminders of Existing FAA Aircraft Ground Operation
Guidance." They are a rehash of not necessarily new (but obviously
still pertinent) FAA guidelines for taxi preparation and crew
resource management techniques.
Among the pertinent reminders for taxi preparation:
Review Notices to Airmen (NOTAMs) for information on
runway/taxiway closures and construction areas
During taxi operations have a current airport diagram readily
available for reference and check the assigned taxi route against
the diagram, paying special attention to any unique or complex
intersections
If the flight has more than one crewmember, it is important
that both fully understand clearances and runway assignments
During taxi operations the pilots’ maximum attention
should be placed upon maintaining situational awareness. The pilot
taxiing should have his attention focused outside the aircraft at
all times while the other pilot should monitor the taxi progress by
reference with the airport diagram and give guidance to the taxiing
pilot.
For CRM:
Confirm, using the challenge and response technique, that the
aircraft is actually positioned on the assigned runway by reference
to the heading indicator
Use all available resources to ensure the aircraft is
positioned on the proper runway. One technique for airplanes that
are FMS-equipped is to verbally announce that the proper
runway and departure procedure are selected in the FMS and that the
aircraft heading agrees with the assigned runway for takeoff.
For an in-depth discussion and more suggestions click here to listen to an
ANN Special Feature podcast featuring Master CFI Tom Turner.
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