Every pilot has their own rhythm before takeoff — a familiar sequence of checks, scans, and quick mental notes that set the tone for a smooth flight. Whether you’re flying a familiar route or taking on a new destination, the pre-flight checklist is where it all begins.
And while we’re talking about preparation, here’s something we’re proud of: Monmouth Executive Airport is home to the Young Aviator Club, where local kids in Wall Township can take their very first step into aviation with a complimentary introductory flight lesson through Eagles View Aviation, Inc. It’s our way of supporting the next generation of pilots and sparking that early love of flying.
In this article, we’re zeroing in on the pre-flight checklist — the essential steps that help ensure your takeoff is as safe and seamless as possible.
Flight Planning and Crew Readiness for Departure
Flight planning is the process of producing a proposed flight path for an aircraft and filing it as required by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). What are some of the elements included in a flight plan?
- Identify the departure and arrival airports.
- Indicate your flight path.
- Choose an altitude.
- Determine your fuel requirements.
- Check and understand the weather on your flight path.
- Calculate the passenger and payload weight and location.
- File your flight plan.
- Familiarize yourself, once again, with the aircraft’s emergency procedures.
Are you ready for departure? IMSAFE is a pilot pre-flight checklist and self-analysis tool that helps pilots evaluate their own fitness to fly. The checklist reviews the following:
I – Illness
M – Medication
S – Stress
A – Alcohol
F – Fatigue
E – Emotion.
POH: Essential Pre-Flight Checklist Items
All aircraft have a Pilot’s Operating Handbook (POH) provided by the manufacturer. It is a legal, FAA-approved Airplane Flight Manual (AFM) that contains specific instructions for operating the aircraft and includes the checklists to complete for that model. As a pilot, you need to understand what you are checking during pre-flight and why you are checking it.
Checklists can be divided into three categories: before starting the engine, starting the engine, and before takeoff. Items to be checked off before the engine is started generally include:
- Complete external checks.
- Seats adjusted and locked in position.
- Seat belts and shoulder harnesses fastened.
- Fuel shutoff valve on.
- Radios and electrical equipment off.
- Brakes test and hold.
Aircraft Systems and Safety Checks Before Flight
Never do your pre-flight checklists from memory, as you might forget something. You could follow the habit of military pilots by reading the checklists out loud while going through them, which is something they consider a critical safety procedure. Aircraft system and safety checks include reviewing the brakes, tires, rigged controls, engine, oil levels, and fuel gauges.
Inspect the brake rotor (disc) for excessive grooves, rust, and overall thickness during the brake check. Ask a maintenance technician what the correct brake pad thickness is for your aircraft and ensure it is within the specified limits. Check the propeller for overall condition. Remember that moving the prop may cause the engine to fire, so never assume you are safe when you move it.
Step-by-Step Takeoff Preparation
It’s nearly time for takeoff. Clean the aircraft’s windows inside and out. Don’t forget to check for ARROW, as you cannot legally fly without the following documents in the cockpit: airworthiness certificate, registration, radio station license, operating limitation documents, and weight and balance information.
Go through your emergency checklists:
- Engine fire on engine start
- Aborted takeoff
- Engine failure after takeoff
Complete the required cockpit checklist before switching on the engine, while the engine’s running, and at full power. Call on the radio to say you are ‘ready to taxi.’ Check the steering while taxiing. Do the relevant checks when you reach the start of the runway. Once they are completed, call on the radio to say that you are ‘ready for departure.’ Most of all, enjoy the flight!
Monmouth Jet Center, NJ, is home to two highly reputable flight schools. Our uncrowded airspace makes Monmouth Executive Airport (BLM) the perfect place to take flying lessons! Start training by contacting Monmouth today or visiting our website at: https://monmouthjetcenter.com/
