A recent spate of high-profile runway excursions involving airline operations got me thinking: Runway overruns are not a topic on which the average GA pilot receives much comprehensive instruction during flight training. The pros have operational policies providing the parameters and protocols by which takeoffs and landings must be done each and every time. But for the rest of us not flying the big iron in 288
Playing Defense On Takeoff
A recent spate of high-profile runway excursions involving airline operations got me thinking: Runway overruns are not a topic on which the average GA pilot receives much comprehensive instruction during flight training. The pros have operational policies providing the parameters and protocols by which takeoffs and landings must be done each and every time. But for the rest of us not flying the big iron in conformity to op specs, theres no similar, systematic defense strategy utilized against running into the ditch. In fact, the varied nature of GA flying itself-sporadic flights, from local VFR practice to an IFR cross-country-actually presents a greater challenge than that done by the pros flying the same bus route day in and day out.
Key Takeaways:
- General Aviation (GA) pilots often lack comprehensive training and systematic defenses against runway excursions (veer-offs and overruns) compared to commercial operations, making them vulnerable due to varied flying conditions.
- To reduce the risk of takeoff excursions, pilots should adopt a highly alert mindset and perform early, thorough checks, including runway alignment, engine gauges, flap settings, and autopilot status.
- Key defensive tactics also include knowing critical abort points on the runway, ensuring adequate speed for positive control after rotation (e.g., 5-10 knots over book), and utilizing ground effect to build speed before initiating a climb.
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