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Exercise 2 — Aeroplane Familiarization and Preparation for Flight

A.  Documents and Airworthiness

Aim

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

Description

The trainee shall 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

The trainee will:

  • ensure that flight authorization is confirmed and encompasses the requirements of the proposed flight in accordance with the applicable operational control system;
  • determine that the required documents on board are valid;
  • determine that the maintenance release ensures aeroplane serviceability and currency of inspection for the proposed period of flight;
  • determine the number of flying hours before the next service or maintenance task is due;
  • ensure that any conditions or limitations on the maintenance release can be complied with;
  • determine the impact on aeroplane operations of unserviceabilities for the proposed flight;
  • determine that the aeroplane is equipped in accordance with the installed Aircraft Equipment List, as amended;
  • explain the process for dealing with aeroplane unserviceabilities discovered during a flight.

B.  Aeroplane Performance

Aim

To determine that the trainee understands the performance capabilities, approved operating procedures, and limitations for the aeroplane being used for the flight.

Description

The trainee will be required to explain and state the performance capabilities, approved operating procedures and operating limitations and placards for the aeroplane to be used on the flight. Essential performance speeds shall be quoted from memory. Other aeroplane performance data may be determined from the Pilot's Operating Handbook.

Performance Criteria

The trainee will state from memory the following speeds:

  • best angle of climb speed;
  • best rate of climb speed;
  • manoeuvring speed.

Calculate, for the proposed flight:

  • Take-off distance required to clear a 50 foot or existing obstacle;
  • Landing distance required to clear a 50 foot or existing obstacle.

The trainee will determine from the Pilot's Operating Handbook any other required operational data for the aeroplane used for the flight.

C.  Weight and Balance, Loading

Aim

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

Description

The trainee will be required, using actual weights, to apply the approved weight and balance data for the aeroplane used and complete accurate practical computations for the intended flight, including takeoff and landing weights and if applicable the zero fuel weight. If a loading graph or computer is available with the aeroplane, it may be utilized. Knowledge of weight and balance graphs and envelopes, shall be demonstrated.

Performance Criteria

The trainee will:

  • determine if the take-off and landing weights, centres of gravity and if applicable zero-fuel weight are within permissible limits for the intended flight;
  • 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 has been exceeded.

D.  Operation of Aircraft Systems

Aim

To determine that the trainee can operate aircraft systems in accordance with the Pilot's Operating Handbook.

Description

The trainee shall be expected to demonstrate practical knowledge of the operation of systems installed on the aeroplane being used for the flight test.

Performance Criteria

The trainee shall operate the aeroplane systems in accordance with the Pilot's Operating Handbook and explain the operation of at least three of the following systems:

  • primary flight controls and trim
  • flaps, leading edge devices, and spoilers
  • powerplant and propeller
  • landing gear
  • fuel, oil, and hydraulic system
  • electrical system
  • avionics system
  • pitot-static system, vacuum/pressure system and associated flight instruments
  • environmental system
  • de-icing and anti-icing systems

E.  Pre-Flight Inspection

Aim

To determine that the trainee can complete internal and external checks in accordance with the approved checklist.

Description

The trainee shall determine that the aeroplane is ready for the intended flight.

All required equipment and documents shall be located and, so far as can be determined by pre-flight inspection, the aeroplane shall be confirmed to be airworthy. Visual checks for fuel quantity, proper grade of fuel, fuel contamination and oil level shall be carried out in accordance with the Pilot's Operating Handbook. 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.

The candidate shall 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

The trainee will:

  • using an orderly procedure, inspect the aeroplane including at least those items listed by the manufacturer or aeroplane owner/operator;
  • identify and verify switches, circuit breakers/fuses, and spare fuses pertinent to day and night operations;
  • ensure that no defect or damage to the aeroplane could compromise safety;
  • describe the appropriate action to take for any unsatisfactory item detected (or described by the instructor);
  • notes any discrepancy, and determines whether the aeroplane requires maintenance;
  • confirm that there is sufficient fuel and oil for the intended flight;
  • verify that the aeroplane is in condition for safe flight;
  • identify and verify the location and security of baggage and required equipment;
  • organize and arrange material and equipment in a manner that makes the items readily available;
  • perform an effective passenger safety briefing which shall include:

    • the location and use of emergency exits, emergency locator transmitter, fire extinguisher
    • smoking limitations
    • use of seat belts
    • items specific to the aeroplane type being used
    • action to take in the event of an emergency landing
    • other items for use in an emergency

F.  Engine Starting and Run-up, Use of Check Lists

Aim

To determine that the trainee can complete engine start, warm-up, run-up, and systems checks in accordance with the Pilot's Operating Handbook.

Description

The trainee shall use the checklists provided by the aircraft manufacturer or owner and use recommended procedures for engine starting, warm-up, run-up and to check aeroplane systems and equipment to determine that the aeroplane is airworthy and ready for flight. The trainee shall take appropriate action with respect to unsatisfactory conditions encountered or specified by the instructor.

Performance Criteria

The trainee will:

  • demonstrate an awareness of other persons and property before and during engine start;
  • accurately complete the engine and aeroplane systems checks;
  • take appropriate action with respect to unsatisfactory conditions;
  • use the appropriate checklist provided by the manufacturer or aeroplane owner;
  • determine that the radio navigation aids to be used on the flight test are serviceable;
  • check flight controls for freedom of operation and correct movement.
Date modified:
2010-05-20