Aircraft Inspection is the first and most important measure that needs to be thoroughly taken care of before each flight. Regardless of an aircraft’s design or size, pre-flight inspection is crucial to ensuring its airworthiness. This means it has no physical or mechanical impairment, and there’s no pending maintenance, making it safe to fly with passengers on-board.
Pre-flight Inspection
A pilot or co-pilot usually performs a pre-flight aircraft inspection. This consists of two main examinations: Cabin inspection and Exterior Inspection. Are you a pilot in the making or want to know how you can inspect your light aircraft?
Here, we have compiled a guide containing all significant instructions to help you learn about light aircraft inspection.
Cabin Inspection
Check For All Important Documents
The primary step of a pre-flight cabin inspection is to check for all legal and assisting documents. These include license, registration documents, certificates declaring your aircraft is airworthy, operating manual, and the aircraft's weight and balance data. Furthermore, make sure that your certification documents are valid for the date of the flight.
Control System Check
To perform a control system check, we must first switch off the engine's ignition switch. First, remove the control wheel lock and then make sure the switch is off and there are no keys in the ignition. Following this, turn the master switch on to check for fuel levels and quality. Once you are done, lower the flaps and turn off the master switch.
It is important to remember that gauges are not precise in their readings for fuel levels as they only show maximum accuracy when displaying an empty reading.
Exterior Inspection
The Exterior Inspection of a light aircraft is detailed and more time consuming than the Cabin Inspection. The following is a step-by-step guide on how you can perform this inspection.
Empennage Inspection
The empennage forms the tail body at the rear of an aircraft. It functions to provide stability to the plane during a flight. Sift through the tail assembly to identify any damage. Then, move onto the elevator and rudder to check for their unrestricted movement and security. Also, read the anti-balance tabs.
Lastly, inspect the aircraft for its antenna. Once this is complete, remove the tail tie-down to prepare the aircraft for flight and take-off.
Lateral Inspection: Wings
Perform this inspection separately, on both sides of the airplane. First, check the flap for minimum movement, examine the aileron's movement and its hinges, and make sure it is restricted. Following, scan the leading edge of the wing and remove the wing tie-down for flight.
Lateral Inspection: Wheels And Fuel tank
As mentioned before, perform the lateral inspection on both (right and left) sides of the aircraft separately. Check the main wheel for any damage or traces of brake-fluid leaks. Ensure the tires are in good condition and adequately inflated as required.
Furthermore, inspect the fuel tank for any leakage; drain a small amount of fuel via the drain valve to examine fuel quality by looking for sediment or water residues. Then, remove the fuel tank cap and observe the quantity of fuel inside. Lastly, replace the lid and check its oil levels.
Aircraft Nose Assembly Inspection
Inspect the nose heel and fairing; ensure the tire and strut are well inflated and in exceptional conditions. Further, check the shimmy damper, nuts, and bolts for security. It is also essential to examine the propeller, spinner, and alternator belt for visible ant damage. Finally, check the landing light for its functionality.
Pre-flight Inspection of a Light Aircraft is not an easy task. You may require professional advice or assistance to be 100% sure. If you detect anything on your aircraft during inspection that might need immediate repairing, contact us at Acorn Welding. We are aircraft inspection and maintenance experts!
