PRE-FLIGHT TOTAL TRIP ENVIRONMENT ASSESSMENT

Acknowledgements: EuroControl Skybrary

Editor’s Note:  During our DTO audit the CAA auditor suggested that we should extend our risk assessment scope to include consideration of possible scenarios in flight, in addition to on-base activity. So, this PRE-FLIGHT RISK ASSESSMENT CHECKLIST has been adapted from the EuroControl “Skybrary” advice sheet for commercial pilots preparing to fly to a destination for the first time.

We consider it to be equally appropriate for use by Aerobility’s private pilots prior to all departures, but particularly when visiting new destinations, or other places not visited for some time. 

Destination Airport and any intermediate stop 

·     Make a general assessment of accessibility and general facilities for users with mobility issues, particularly those requiring wheelchair and/or hoisting assistance. 

·     Establish that the runway and taxiway surface structures and dimensions are sufficient for your type of aircraft. 

·     Assess facilities for aircraft maintenance, in case of need. 

·     Review fuel supply facilities, including re-fuelling assistance and the possibility for on-line or post-flight payment for users with mobility issues. 

·     Review Fire & Rescue capability for users with mobility issues in relation to your aircraft type. 

·     Establish whether there is any known bird-strike or other wildlife hazard, including seasonality, and especially in coastal sites, or in urban areas with poorly controlled refuse-disposal. 

·     Review ATC ground movement practices, including directed taxi routing or general guidance procedures. 

·     Evaluate runway surface safety - braking action/friction performance when wet etc. 

·     Review any known prevailing weather record - Wind Velocity, Visibility, Temperature range and prevalence of sudden short-duration heavy precipitation. 

Flight Procedures and Local Flying Area 

·     Review and familiarise with terrain within 25nm of destination and any planned intermediate stop, in case of need to divert from planned route.

·     Assess Aerodrome Operating Minima.  

·     Check whether or not any noise abatement requirements apply. 

·     Review circuit and joining procedures carefully and establish minimum safe height over terrain and/or obstacles throughout approach. 

En Route 

·     Determine any need for the terrain to provide ease of access and egress in an emergency for the pilot, passengers, and mobility assistance services in the event of an emergency en-route landing.      

·     Review any risk of military activity in the general vicinity of transit airspace which might be prejudicial to the safety of your flight. 

Aircraft Performance 

·     Calculate the extremes of the aircraft’s performance envelope in relation to aircraft weight, prevailing temperature, obstacles, and the planned route terrain. 

Final Determination 

·     Ensure that all relevant current NOTAMS and weather reports are reviewed both pre-flight and during flight. 

·     Decide GO/NO GO or amend route plan based on information obtained from pre-flight assessment.

FLY SAFE!