Many Instructors are NOT Teaching This...
Sep 23, 2024Hover pre takeoff checks are an essential aspect of helicopter flight safety, yet many pilots and instructors often overlook their importance. This practice, which involves a quick but thorough inspection of various systems and instruments just before hovering, can make the difference between a safe flight and a potential disaster. Let's delve into why hover pre takeoff checks are non-negotiable and how they should be properly conducted, as discussed by Kenny Keller, creator of Helicopter Online Ground School (H.O.G.S.).
A Safety Measure That Shouldn't Be Ignored
A hover pre takeoff check is a quick run-through of the aircraft's key systems and instruments to ensure everything is functioning correctly before taking off. As Kenny Keller points out, this practice is not just a formality but a critical safety measure. He emphasizes that these checks should be performed and verbalized every single time a pilot prepares for takeoff. The objective is to catch any potential issues that could become dangerous once the aircraft is airborne.
Start at the Top and Work Your Way Down
Kenny Keller recommends a systematic approach to conducting hover pre takeoff checks. Here is a breakdown of the steps:
1. Warning and Caution Lights
Ensure all warning and caution lights are out.
2. Instruments Check
Take a quick glance over all instruments to confirm they are within normal operating ranges.
3. Carburetor Temperature
Make sure the carburetor temperature is out of the yellow zone.
4. Battery Charging
Check that the battery is charging correctly.
5. Fuel and Timer
Confirm that you have adequate fuel and start your fuel timer.
6. Avionics and Lighting
Ensure that avionics, strobes, and navigation lights are operational.
This process should only take about 10 to 20 seconds but can significantly impact flight safety by giving the engine a chance to show any signs of malfunction under a light load.
The Risks of Skipping This Step
One of the key points Kenny Keller stresses is the dangerous trend among some pilots to skip hover pre takeoff checks, especially those who showcase aggressive, show-off takeoffs on social media. These "hot dog" pilots are not just risking their own lives but also promoting unsafe practices to a broader audience. Skipping this critical step can lead to engine failure or other malfunctions just when the helicopter is most vulnerable—during takeoff.
Personalizing Your Hover Pre Takeoff Check
While there are standard steps to follow, Kenny Keller acknowledges that pilots may have their own methodologies or terminologies for conducting these checks. The most important thing is consistency and thoroughness. Whether you use the terminology taught by your instructor or develop your own system, the goal is the same: to ensure the aircraft is in optimal condition for takeoff.
Expanding Your Knowledge Base
In the podcast, Kenny also mentions the "Private Pilot 101- A Helicopter Training Blueprint" book, which serves as a comprehensive guide to flight and ground training. This resource, available both as a free PDF and a paperback, offers extensive insights into various aspects of pilot training, including the importance of hover pre takeoff checks. For those looking to deepen their understanding, this book is a valuable tool.
The Non-Negotiable Practice for Safe Flying
Hover pre takeoff checks are not just a routine but a crucial safety practice that every responsible pilot should adopt. By taking a few seconds to ensure everything is functioning correctly, you are not just preparing for a safe takeoff but also setting a positive example within the aviation community. Remember, in the world of flying, safety should always be the top priority.
For more insights into safe flying practices, don't forget to check out Helicopter Online Ground School.
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