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:
- To remove persons injured or trapped;
- To protect the wreckage from further damage; or
- 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.