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 better pilots, we're all in this together.

Aero-Tips 04.20.06

Here’s hoping you never need to know this...

If you’re involved in an aircraft accident you’re responsible to preserve, as best as possible, the aircraft and its contents for use in a possible National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) investigation. CFR 49 830 tells us the "operator of an aircraft involved in an accident or incident... is responsible for preserving to the extent possible any aircraft wreckage, cargo, and mail aboard the aircraft, and all records... pertaining to the operation and maintenance of the aircraft and to the airmen until the Board takes custody thereof or a release is granted pursuant to Sec. 831.12(b) of this chapter."

Do not impede rescue

Prior to the time the Board or its authorized representative takes custody of aircraft wreckage, mail, or cargo, such wreckage, mail, or cargo may not be disturbed or moved except to the extent necessary:

1. To remove persons injured or trapped;
2. To protect the wreckage from further damage; or
3. To protect the public from injury.

Where it is necessary to move aircraft wreckage, mail or cargo, make sketches, descriptive notes, and photographs if possible, of the original positions and condition of the wreckage and any significant impact marks.

What about insurance?

Even if the incident does not require an NTSB report, your insurance policy likely contains language requiring you to protect the airplane and its contents from further damage or loss. This may include measures as involved as tying tarps or erecting a tent over wreckage, to hiring a security guard to prevent unauthorized access or theft until the insurance company (or NTSB) takes possession. If your policy requires such measures, it will also pay the expense... as always, read your policy, and ask your agent or broker before you need to know.

Aero-tip of the day: Protect your passengers, your airplane, its contents and records after an accident or incident. Remember, you’re still pilot-in-command.

FMI: Aero-Tips