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6. TP 12475 - Flight Test Guide - Recreational Pilot Permit - Aeroplane
7. Flight Test Exercises - Ex. 2 - Aeroplane Familiarization and Preparation for Flight

Flight Test Exercises - Ex. 2 - Aeroplane Familiarization and Preparation for Flight

A.  Documents and Airworthiness

Aim

To determine that the candidate can correctly assess the validity of documents required on board and, from these documents, determine that the aircraft is airworthy.

Description

The candidate must determine the validity of all documents required to be carried on board the aeroplane and determine that required maintenance certifications have been completed.

Performance Criteria

Assessment will be based on the candidate's ability to:

1. determine if the documents required on board are valid;
   
2. determine the number of flying hours remaining before the next service or maintenance task;
   
3. determine if the maintenance release ensures aeroplane serviceability and currency of inspection for the proposed period of flight;
   
4. ensure that any conditions or limitations on the maintenance release can be complied with; and
   
5. determine the impact of deferred defects on aeroplane operations for the proposed flight.

B.  Aeroplane Performance

Aim

To determine that the candidate understands the recommended operating procedures, performance capabilities and limitations of the aeroplane being used for the flight test.

Description

The candidate will be required to demonstrate practical knowledge of recommended operating procedures, performance capabilities and limitations for the aeroplane to be used on the flight test. Essential performance speeds will be quoted from memory. Other aeroplane performance data, such as static take-off power RPM, may be determined from the POH/AFM.

Performance Criteria

Assessment will be based on the candidate's ability to:

1. State from memory the following speeds:
   
   
   1. best angle of climb speed (V_x);
   2. best rate of climb speed (V_y);
   3. manoeuvring speed (V_a); and

B. calculate, for the proposed flight the takeoff distance required to clear a 50 foot or existing obstacle;

C.  Weight and Balance, Loading

Aim

To determine that the candidate can correctly complete weight and balance calculations for the aeroplane used for the flight test.

Description

The candidate will be required, using actual weights, to apply the approved weight and balance data and complete accurate computations for an assigned practical load requirement that addresses all or most of the passenger and baggage stations applicable to the aeroplane to be used in the test, including take-off weight and landing weight. If a loading graph or computer is available with the aeroplane, it may be utilized.

Knowledge of weight and balance graphs and envelopes, and the effect of various centre of gravity locations on the aeroplane flight characteristics will be demonstrated. Practical knowledge of how to correct a situation in which the centre of gravity is out of limits or in which the gross weight has been exceeded will be demonstrated.

Performance Criteria

Assessment will be based on the candidate's ability to:

1. determine if the take-off and landing weights and centres of gravity in each case are within permissible limits;
   
2. demonstrate practical knowledge of how to correct a situation in which the centre of gravity is out of limits and/or in which the gross weight is exceeded; and
   
3. explain the effect of various centre of gravity locations on aeroplane flight characteristics.

D.  Pre-flight Inspection (Air Item)

Aim

To determine that the candidate can complete internal and external checks in accordance with the POH/AFM and demonstrate practical knowledge of the aircraft.

Description

The candidate will determine that the aeroplane is ready for the intended flight.

All required equipment and documents will be located and, so far as can be determined by pre flight inspection, the aeroplane will be confirmed to be airworthy. Visual checks for fuel quantity, proper grade of fuel, fuel contamination and oil level will be carried out in accordance with the POH/AFM. If the aircraft design precludes a visual check, fuel chits, fuel logs or other credible procedures may be used to confirm the amount of fuel actually on board.

After the candidate has completed the pre-flight inspection, questions relating to the flight test aircraft will be asked. The candidate should be able to explain what appropriate action would be taken if an unsatisfactory item were detected or described by the examiner during the pre-flight inspection. The candidate should demonstrate knowledge of the consequences if such items were undetected.

Note:  The external and internal checks must at least cover all of the items specified by the manufacturer.

The candidate will conduct an oral passenger safety briefing. Should the candidate omit the passenger safety briefing the examiner will ask the candidate to provide one.

Performance Criteria

Assessment will be based on the candidate's ability to:

1. use an orderly procedure to inspect the aeroplane including at least those items listed by the manufacturer or aeroplane owner;
   
2. confirm that there is sufficient fuel and oil for the intended flight;
   
3. verify that the aeroplane is in condition for safe flight;
   
4. describe the appropriate action to take for any unsatisfactory item detected or described by the examiner;
   
5. identify and verify the location and security of baggage and required equipment;
   
6. organize and arrange material and equipment in a manner that makes the items readily available;
   
7. perform an effective passenger safety briefing that will include:
   
   
   1. the location and use of emergency exits, emergency locator transmitter, fire extinguisher
   2. smoking limitations
   3. use of seat belts
   4. items specific to the aeroplane type being used
   5. action to take in the event of an emergency landing
   6. other items for use in an emergency.

E.  Engine Starting and Run-up, Use of Checklists

Aim

To determine that the candidate can complete engine start, warm-up, run-up, correctness of control movements and system checks in accordance with the checklists or placards provided by the aircraft manufacturer or owner, completing at least those items in the POH/AFM.

Description

The candidate will use recommended procedures in engine starting, warm-up and run-up and check aeroplane systems and equipment to determine that the aeroplane is airworthy and ready for flight. The candidate will be asked to demonstrate or explain how to correct any unsatisfactory condition encountered or specified by the examiner.

Performance Criteria

Assessment will be based on the candidate's ability to:

1. demonstrate an awareness of other persons and property before and during engine start;
   
2. use the appropriate checklist provided by the manufacturer or aeroplane owner;
   
3. accurately complete the engine and aeroplane systems checks;
   
4. check flight controls for freedom of operation and correct movement; and
   
5. take appropriate action with respect to unsatisfactory conditions.

Date modified:

2010-05-28

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