Addresses The issue In New Aviation Safety Alert

If you're planning to fly in to Sun 'n Fun this week, or AirVenture later this summer, the NTSB has some advice for you concerning safety at such high-traffic events.

The NTSB has issued aviation safety alert SA-053 in advance of these two major fly-in events.

The board says that major fly-in events pose unique challenges including high-density traffic, special flight and communication procedures, a rapidly changing environment, and changes to air traffic control separation standards. The safety alert provides pilots guidance for dealing with the challenges of major fly-in events and stresses the need for them to review FAA Notices to Airmen.

“Events like these are a great way to celebrate the joy of aviation,” said John DeLisi, Director of the Office of Aviation Safety at the NTSB, “a little extra planning will help ensure a safe arrival.”

The NTSB recommends that pilots:

• Do your homework! Study the event NOTAM so that you know what to expect when you arrive. The procedures for an event may change from year to year, so be familiar with the NOTAM each year even if you are a regular visitor to the event.
• Be mentally prepared for a challenging and dynamic environment.
• Brief passengers in your aircraft about what to expect during arrival and ask them to help you watch for traffic.
• Keep radio traffic to a minimum in accordance with the published procedures. As you approach the area, monitor the published frequency to hear what other pilots are being told.
• Know your limitations and those of your aircraft. You may be asked to operate in close proximity to other aircraft, make a short approach, follow aircraft that may be slower than your usual approach speed, land at a specific spot on the runway, or expedite takeoff. Brush up on any relevant skills before you go.
• Above all, know that ATC is there to help and support you. If you are uncomfortable with an ATC instruction, landing clearance, or aircraft spacing, fly your aircraft first, and advise ATC if you decide to go around. Any controller will tell you that they would much rather deal with a go-around than an accident!

Aviation safety alert SA-053, titled “Arriving at a Major Fly-In event: Keep Your Focus on Safety,” and other NTSB safety alerts can be found online.

FMI: SA-053