Training and Safety Tip: Scanning for traffic
A primary responsibility of all pilots—whether flying under visual flight rules or instrument flight rules—is to see and avoid other aircraft.
In fact, it’s a regulation (FAR 91.113). And there are strategies that pilots can employ to help with identifying and avoiding traffic.
The instrument scan should include avionics, which can provide helpful information like another aircraft’s location, altitude, and direction of flight at a glance, whereas it may take longer to decipher that information by looking outside. If your aircraft is equipped with ADS-B In, understand and use the system to identify aircraft and, if appropriate, determine any avoidance action you should take. Some pilots also use a tablet with traffic information on apps such as ForeFlight. Using all available tools is in the best interest of safety. But remember, it doesn’t eliminate the need to look outside, weather permitting.
Be aware of hindrances to your scan. For example, high wings obstruct visibility above the aircraft while low wings block visibility below. Make adjustments as necessary. For instance, when flying a low-wing aircraft, you might want to clear final approach in the pattern before the base-to-final turn when the lowered wing could obscure another aircraft on final approach. Other blind spots to be aware of include windshield posts and sun visors. Even bugs on the windshield can make it difficult to spot traffic, so be sure to clean it before every flight.
Two sets of eyes are better than one. If you fly with a flight instructor or another pilot, point out the traffic you see and the avoidance technique you’ll apply. You can also request flight following to enlist the help of air traffic control in spotting conflicting traffic. But it is still your responsibility as pilot in command to see and avoid other aircraft.
