A rush of air when a fuel tank cap is cracked can be an indicator of a problem with the fuel vent system. The FAA recommends pilots use a flashlight to inspect the fuel vents and ensure they are free from obstructions or damage. Preflight checks are referenced in POH’s under Normal Procedures (Section 4). 1 prepared by the General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA), all general aviation airplane and helicopter flight manuals and pilot operating handbooks (POHs) now follow the same standardized format. Whether it is a small trainer airplane, a helicopter, a corporate jet, or a transport category airliner, the pilot in command must be sure the aircraft is airworthy and the crew, passengers, and/or cargo are all fit for flight. Preflight checks should be specific to the type of aircraft and follow the manufacturer’s published recommendations. The probable cause of the accident was “the pilot’s failure to remove the control gust lock prior to takeoff and his failure to abort the takeoff with sufficient runway remaining to stop the airplane on the runway.” Six Methods to Pre-Flight Checks The pilot was an Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) with more than 6,200 hours of experience. A fatal Cessna 340 crash on Noveminvolved a pilot attempting to take off without removing the control gust lock prior to takeoff. There are many examples of aircraft accidents that could have been prevented with proper preflight checks. Ensuring flight controls are functioning correctly.Verifying the flight plan and radio frequencies are correct.Checking and setting the trim for takeoff.Checking indicated fuel level versus flight requirements.Setting the cabin pressure for the destination airport (if applicable).Making sure the altimeter(s) is/are properly set.Again, these items will vary greatly based on aircraft type and installed avionics, but generally include: Internal checks take place inside the aircraft, typically while seated in the flight deck. Checking for the presence of even small amounts of frost, ice, or snow on the aircraft. Checking for the general condition while looking for missing or worn elements of the aircraft such as broken piano hinges or missing cotter pins.Looking for foreign objects, ranging from covers and cowl inlet plugs to birds nests or other debris.Checking the quantity of fluids and for signs of leakage from the aircraft.Checking tire condition and inflation levels.Looking at brake wear indicators that signal further inspection by a mechanic or that brake maintenance may be necessary.Checking the condition and presence of landing gear locks and steering pins.Checking pitot tubes, fuel vents, static ports, and other probes and indicators.These items will vary greatly based on aircraft type and storage location (hangar vs. External checks refer to things pilots should look for outside of the aircraft.
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