Promoting the safe enjoyment of aviation for pilots, aircraft builders and enthusiasts.
After changing the engine oil and filter, ensure there are no leaks. Before starting the engine, check the oil level and verify oil pressure after starting. Taxi forward, make a turn, and check for oil trails. If there's a leak, investigate immediately. After a successful runup, check for leaks again. Never fly without these checks.
In flight training, it's common to have trouble trimming the airplane. An important rule to remember is to wait at least five seconds after changing pitch, power, or configuration before adjusting the elevator trim. This prevents frequent, unnecessary adjustments and ensures the airplane is properly trimmed. Additionally, there are exceptions to the five-second rule, such as when performing a go-around.
The user experienced unexpected difficulty controlling their Cirrus SR22 during a go-around, recalling smoother training. The response emphasizes the importance of proper power application and managing pitch and yaw during rejected landings. It advises pilots to anticipate control challenges, trim appropriately, and practice go-arounds to enhance safety and confidence.
In the event of a partial power loss during flight, immediate actions include reverting recent changes and following a mental engine failure checklist. Maintain altitude and glide speed while assessing landing options, plan for an emergency landing, and ensure situational awareness. Practice power-off landings to enhance preparedness.
Bob, Kirkby, and I flew from Canada to the U.S. via Cut Bank, facing delays at customs. We navigated through challenging weather and made fuel stops in Ennis, Blackfoot, and Wendover before reaching Boulder City. The trip culminated in sightseeing military aircraft at Nellis Air Force Base while in Las Vegas.
The discussion emphasizes the value of both spin and stall training for pilots, as these skills can enhance confidence and recovery capabilities in emergency situations. Even infrequent training sessions can significantly aid pilots, enabling them to respond effectively to unexpected spins and preventing accidents through proper control inputs.
Elevator trim adjustment is crucial for maintaining aircraft attitude during flight, especially when power or airspeed changes. Proper technique involves establishing pitch attitude with controls and then trimming to relieve pressure. Avoid trimming during the landing flare to prevent difficulties in go-arounds. Utilizing aileron and rudder trim enhances hands-off flight.
A stabilized approach is essential for safe landings, as it ensures consistent airspeed, configuration, and glidepath during final approach, ideally from 500 feet above the runway. An unstabilized approach, characterized by changes in these variables, increases the risk of accidents. If unstable, pilots should prefer to go around rather than attempt a landing.
The author plans a flight to Pensacola, Florida, in May to visit the US Navy's aviation museum with Doug Eaglesham. The trip spans 12 days, covering various routes and potential stops, including attractions like the Kennedy Space Center. Interested participants can reach out for updates and details on a preliminary meeting.
Bob Kirkby discusses the challenges pilots face during engine failures after takeoff. Simulation training reveals that many pilots struggle to return to the runway, especially from low altitudes like 800 feet AGL. The lessons emphasize the importance of maintaining wings level and landing straight ahead instead of attempting a return.
Calgary Recreational Flying Club YYC 