PHAK 2-25

Figure 2-20. The pilot has a certain capacity of doing work and handling tasks. However, there is a point where the tasking exceeds the pilot’s capability. When this happens, tasks are either not performed properly or some are not performed at all. Preflight Takeoff Cruise Approach & landing Time Task load High Low Pilot capabilities Task requirements remaining calm, and thinking rationally are key elements in reducing stress and increasing the capacity to fly safely. This ability depends upon experience, discipline, and training. Managing Risks The ability to manage risks begins with preparation. Here are some things a pilot can do to manage risks: • Assess the flight’s risk based upon experience. Use some form of risk assessment. For example, if the weather is marginal and the pilot has little IMC training, it is probably a good idea to cancel the flight. • Brief passengers using the SAFETY list: S Seat belts fastened for taxi, takeoff, landing Shoulder harness fastened for takeoff, landing Seat position adjusted and locked in place A Air vents (location and operation) All environmental controls (discussed) Action in case of any passenger discomfort F Fire extinguisher (location and operation) E Exit doors (how to secure; how to open) Emergency evacuation plan Emergency/survival kit (location and contents) T Traffic (scanning, spotting, notifying pilot) Talking, (“sterile flight deck” expectations) Y Your questions? (Speak up!) • In a ddition to the SAFETY list, discuss with passengers whether or not smoking is permitted, flight route altitudes, time en route, destination, weather during flight, expected weather at the destination, controls and what they do, and the general capabilities and limitations of the aircraft. • Use a sterile flight deck (one that is completely silent with no pilot communication with passengers or by passengers) from the time of departure to the first intermediate altitude and clearance from the local airspace. • Use a sterile flight deck during arrival from the first radar vector for approach or descent for the approach. • Keep the passengers informed during times when the workload is low. • Consider using the passenger in the right seat for simple tasks, such as holding the chart. This relieves the pilot of a task. Automation In the GA community, an automated aircraft is generally comprised of an integrated advanced avionics system consisting of a primary flight display (PFD), a multifunction flight display (MFD) including an instrument-certified global positioning system (GPS) with traffic and terrain graphics, and a fully integrated autopilot. This type of aircraft is commonly known as a technically advanced aircraft (TAA). In a TAA aircraft, there are typically two display (computer) screens: PFD (left display screen) and MFD.