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Effective: July 2004 |
Safe Aero Club Operations 1. Since the Beginning of July there have been two Aero Club incidents that require immediate attention. 2. The first event involved a member that was properly qualified to check out the aero club aircraft -- but once off station the Pilot in Command (PIC) elected to fly at night without having received a night checkout. After a night take-off from an off station airport, the PIC noticed a vibration and returned for landing. Unfortunately, the left gear collapsed causing extensive damage to the aircraft. No one was hurt in the mishap. Investigation continues and the details of the mishap will follow, but it appears the PIC did not follow the appropriate AFMAN and FAA guidance. 3. The second event involved a Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) and Student Pilot (SP) returning from a navigational cross-country flight. As they entered the home station traffic pattern, engine RPM began to decrease. TheCFI took control of the aircraft and had the SP reference the checklist as the CFI turned directly to the Runway. They used cockpit resource management and covered the apropriate emergency procedures while attempting recovery. Unfortunately, the engine quit due to mechanical failure. The CFI executed a good soft-field landing 2000 feet short of the runway - there was no injury or damaage to the aircraft. 4. Rules are made for a reason -- following them will help keep you out of harms way - but plan every flight as if an emergency will happen to you. Be prepared by conducting a thorough pre-flight inspection. Make sure you are not only current for the flight you are about to attempt, but you are also proficient. Use your checklist, plan your flight and fly your plan.
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