AFH 2-1

Airplane Flying Handbook (FAA-H-8083-3C) Chapter 2: Ground Operations Introduction Experienced pilots place a strong emphasis on ground operations as this is where safe flight begins and ends. They know that hasty ground operations diminish their margin of safety. A smart pilot takes advantage of this phase of flight to assess various factors including the regulatory requirements, the pilot’s readiness for pilot-in-command (PIC) responsibilities, the airplane’s condition, the flight environment, and any external pressures that could lead to inadequate control of risk. Flying an airplane presents many new responsibilities not required for other forms of transportation. Focus is often placed on the flying portion itself with less emphasis placed on ground operations. However pilots need to allow time for flight preparation. Situational awareness begins during preparation and only ends when the airplane is safely and securely returned to its tie-down or hangar, or if a decision is made not to go. This chapter covers the essential elements for the regulatory basis of flight including: 1. An airplane’s airworthiness requirements, 2. Important inspection items when conducting a preflight visual inspection, 3. Managing risk and resources, and 4. Proper and effective airplane surface movements using the AFM/POH and airplane checklists. Preflight Assessment of the Aircraft The visual preflight assessment mitigates airplane flight hazards. The preflight assessment ensures that any aircraft flown meets regulatory airworthiness standards and is in a safe mechanical condition prior to flight. Per 14 CFR part 3, section 3.5(a), the term “airworthy” means that the aircraft conforms to its type design and is in condition for safe operation. The owner/operator is primarily responsible for maintenance, but in accordance with 14 CFR part 91, section 91.7(a) and (b) no person may operate a civil aircraft unless it is in an airworthy condition and the pilot in command of a civil aircraft is responsible for determining whether the aircraft is in condition for safe flight. The pilot's inspection should involve the following: 1. Inspecting the airplane’s airworthiness status. 2. Following the AFM/POH to determine the required items for visual inspection. [Figures 2-1, 2-2, 2-3]. Figure 2-1. Pilots should view the aircraft’s maintenance logbook prior to flight to ensure the aircraft is safe to fly.