Ahead Of The Airplane

Im a private pilot with (at the time) 1800 hours over 35 years. I have owned three airplanes, and now fly a Piper Archer. I had decided to reward myself with an instrument rating as a retirement present. I had to work during my ground school as the 60-year-old mind does not function like that of the 20-year-old, and the flying also was a challenge since hand/eye coordination is in about the same shape. Still, I had a fun time learning from my young CFI-I, who had been a good friend for some time. We flew mostly by his schedule, in weather, and even picked up ice during some training flights. It was great experience. When the time came for the long dual cross-country, we planned to fly from our base in Davenport, Iowa, to Iowa City and make a VOR approach to a full stop. We then would pick up a new clearance, fly to Omaha for an NDB approach and pick up my daughter who was stationed at Offutt AFB. Wed fly back to Davenport for an ILS.

Key Takeaways:

• An experienced private pilot, training for an instrument rating, accidentally started his aircraft with the tow bar still attached after deviating from his pre-flight routine due to distraction.
• This incident resulted in propeller damage, an engine inspection, two months of grounding, and a $12,000 repair bill that negated his insurance discount for the new rating.
• The pilot emphasizes the critical importance of staying focused, strictly adhering to pre-flight routines, and always ensuring all ground equipment is clear before engine start.

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