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 good pilots, we're all in this together.

Aero-Tips 03.14.06

When does modern automation make the cockpit too busy for a single pilot? FAA is considering the possibility that modern avionics may require a second pilot in some cases.

FAA Advisory Circular 23-1523, Minimum Flight Crew, includes this language:

"For many years, [aircraft] cockpits were rather simple in design, and used instruments and systems that were also similar in operation. This made it rather easy for pilots to transition safely from one [model of] airplane to another. However, in recent years because of the growth of modern technology and the reduced cost of electronic components, novel and more complex integrated avionics systems are increasingly being installed…. These new systems have changed the appearance, operation and usability of the pilot-vehicle interface. There is also much variation between manufacturers in the design and operational characteristics of these systems. So, there is a concern that pilot(s) familiar and proficient with one system may not be able to understand sufficiently and operate another system. Although many of these systems can improve pilot situational awareness and safety, poorly designed systems can increase pilot workload, and increase the potential for pilot error. Also, the lack of standardization in the design and operation of these systems can negatively affect pilot training and impact performance and safety. So there is a need to more closely examine pilot workload and error potential in these complex, integrated cockpits."

The Aviation Consumer concludes that no matter what brand of equipment installed in a Technologically Advanced Aircraft (TAA), "you must fly the [avionics] system regularly to maintain useable proficiency. If you’re not flying for business or pleasure at least once a week, find a local instructor or safety pilot who is fluent in the system you have and go exercise those glass panels regularly."

Aero-tip of the day: Modern "glass" avionics provide a tremendous potential for improvement in situational awareness and safety. High-end avionics also have the potential to overwhelm pilots who do not very frequently practice their use. Flying a TAA? Plan to fly it at least once a week to be truly safe.

FMI: Aero-Tips