A Comprehensive Guide to Pilot Checklists: Types, Sizes, and Functions
As a seasoned pilot, understanding the importance of checklists can be a matter of life and death. Whether you are flying a small general aviation aircraft or a large commercial airliner, the right checklist can ensure safety and efficiency. In this article, we will explore the different types of checklists used by pilots, the number of items typically included, and some historical background on these essential flight tools.
The Diversity of Pilot Checklists
The number of items on a pilot checklist can vary widely depending on the type of aircraft and the specific checklist being used. Generally, there are several types of checklists, each designed to cover essential tasks and procedures during different phases of flight.
1. Pre-flight Checklist" "Typically, a pre-flight checklist contains 20-40 items, designed to help pilots prepare the aircraft for flight. This checklist includes tasks such as checking the oil level, verifying the fuel quantity, ensuring the landing gear and flaps are properly set, inspecting the flight instruments, and confirming the control surfaces are free of ice or debris. Pilots rely on these checklists to ensure that the aircraft is in proper condition before takeoff, making sure no critical components are overlooked.
2. Before Takeoff Checklist" "Before the actual takeoff, pilots use a before takeoff checklist, which usually has around 10-20 items. This checklist focuses on the immediate pre-takeoff procedures, such as checking the brakes, ensuring the seatbelts are cleared, setting the correct takeoff power, and making final communication checks with air traffic control. These items are critical for ensuring a smooth and safe takeoff process.
3. In-flight Checklist" "During the flight, pilots may need to make adjustments or perform routine checks, such as monitoring the fuel levels, verifying the aircraft's heading, checking for any anomalies in the aircraft systems, and performing routine engine checks. An in-flight checklist can vary from 10 to 30 items, depending on the aircraft and the specific phase of the flight. Pilots use these checklists to maintain a high level of situational awareness and to ensure that all systems are functioning as expected.
4. Before Landing Checklist" "When approaching the landing, the before landing checklist usually includes about 5-15 items. This checklist helps pilots prepare the aircraft for landing, ensuring that the landing gear is down and locked, the flaps are set to the correct position, the aircraft's speed is properly adjusted, and final communication checks are made. These tasks are crucial for a smooth and safe landing.
5. Post-flight Checklist" "After landing and completing the flight, the post-flight checklist often has 10-20 items. This checklist serves to ensure that the aircraft is in proper condition for any further operations. It includes verifying the aircraft's systems, fuel, and maintenance logs, and completing any necessary paperwork. Pilots use these checklists to ensure the aircraft is safely secured and ready for the next flight.
Commercial vs. General Aviation Checklists
Commercial aircraft checklists can be more extensive, sometimes exceeding 100 items, especially for the full flight operations checklist. These extensive checklists are designed to cover a wide range of systems and procedures required for large commercial aircraft. In contrast, general aviation checklists may be shorter. However, each checklist is designed to ensure safety and efficiency, covering essential tasks and procedures for pilots.
Historical Checklists" "Long ago, in 1961, when I was learning to fly at Illawarra Flying School in Bankstown, NSW, I memorized a mnemonic for a pre-takeoff checklist: PETTISCCHHB. This mnemonic helped me remember vital steps before taxiing out and lining up for take-off. Over time, as pilots gain more experience and knowledge, the checklists evolve, and sometimes the process becomes more automated, using printed tabs to prevent forgetting those vital checklists.
Checklist Variability by Aircraft Type
The number of items on a checklist can vary based on the specific aircraft. For example, the T-38 Talon, a supersonic jet trainer used by the U.S. Air Force, has a spin recovery checklist that contains just two items: raising the handles and squeezing the triggers. Conversely, the Convair B-36 Peacemaker, a strategic bomber with six radial piston engines and four jet engines, had a very lengthy engine start checklist, likely due to its complex and numerous systems.
Conclusion" "Pilot checklists are essential tools that help ensure the safety and efficiency of aircraft operations. From pre-flight to post-flight, these checklists cover a wide range of tasks and procedures, ensuring that pilots do not overlook any critical steps. Whether you are a commercial airline pilot, a general aviation pilot, or a flight engineer, these checklists are an indispensable part of the flight process. Understanding the types and sizes of these checklists can help you appreciate their importance and the role they play in maintaining safety in the skies.
Key Takeaways
1. Pre-flight and post-flight checklists cover 20-40 and 10-20 items, respectively, ensuring the aircraft is in proper condition before and after any flight.
2. The in-flight checklist is typically 10-30 items, covering a variety of systems and procedures during the flight.
3. Before takeoff and before landing checklists are 10-20 items each, ensuring crucial steps are taken for takeoff and landing safety.
4. Commercial aircraft checklists, such as the full flight operations checklist for the B-36 Peacemaker, can exceed 100 items, while general aviation checklists are generally shorter.
5. Memorable checklists like PETTISCCHHB and spin recovery checklists for specific aircraft further emphasize the importance of checklists in aviation.