Safest Word In Flying

Fred Simonds

Wednesday, November 25, 2020 at 01:21 PM ET

Verified

Heli-Expo 2010 Robert Goyer

Key Takeaways:

Pilots must assert their authority as pilot-in-command to confidently say "No" to any unsafe requests, conditions, or flights, prioritizing safety above all else.
Thorough pre-flight checks and diligent attention to aircraft airworthiness are paramount, as seemingly minor omissions or unaddressed issues can ground an aircraft or lead to emergencies.
Effective risk management and listening to one's instincts are crucial, as compromising safety for convenience, pressure, or assumptions can have severe, even fatal, consequences, making "No" the safest word in aviation.

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With a new private ticket in his wallet, the now-instrument student finished his preflight. No supervision needed, right? Out strode his CFII, who walked around the airplane, checking critical items. He glanced up and spotted a missing inspection cover under the wing. Pointing out this omission, the student asked, “We can still go, right?” The instructor glared at the student. “Wrong! Are you a test pilot? No. Neither am I. This airplane is grounded.”

Always Wary

In a repeat resembling Groundhog Day, on another lesson, the instructor checked the fuel caps and found none. Duct tape covered both filler ports. Again: “Can we go?” “No!”