Technique: Mid-Trip Preflight
What to check after making a stop?
If you’ve started flight training, you know how to preflight the aircraft. It’s the first thing we learn when walking out to the flight line. Training takes us to different airports and unique situations, but the preflight never wavers. It should.
For a normal flight under normal conditions, the full preflight should always start things off. What if you stop for a hamburger and some fuel? Is a full preflight necessary? In most cases, no. An abbreviated preflight will cover the essential items and ignore those things that aren’t relevant.
1. Walk-around. If you’ve been gone for only a few hours, a careful walk around the aircraft will reveal any dents, dings, or other ramp rash. An airport ramp is a busy place, and hit-and-runs with equipment and other aircraft can happen. The walk-around also gives you a quick mental inventory of chocks and tiedowns.
2. Oil level. Aircraft burn oil, even during brief flights. Check the level, being careful if you haven’t been stopped for too long. The dipstick can be hot
to the touch.
3. Fuel level and contamination. Verify the fuel caps are secure and there is ample fuel in the tanks. By dipping the tank you can verify your fuel calculations and reveal any anomalies. And if you’ve received fuel at the stop, remember to sump for water and ensure you received the right kind of fuel.
4. Tires. Have a rough landing? It’s a good idea to always take a quick glance at the tires for bald spots or softness. Trying to take off with a flat tire is an avoidable embarrassment. Checking the tires also gives you a chance to spot leaks under the brakes.
