How Will They Know?

Many years ago, I happened to overhear one pilot ask another, How did they find out? The question revolved around a situation resulting from an error in judgment concerning operation of an unairworthy (out-of-annual-inspection) aircraft. While there was no accident, a somewhat unusual event occurred that was traced to a mouse nest in the carburetor heater duct, which caused a rough-running engine. After a precautionary landing, mechanics discovered the problem and thought it was hilarious.

Tuesday, December 19, 2017 at 12:00 AM ET

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Key Takeaways:

Aviation safety necessitates strict adherence to regulations, procedures, and professional best practices, extending beyond mere legal compliance to ensure smart and safe operations.
The aviation community has a crucial responsibility for self-policing and actively intervening when observing unsafe practices, as inaction can lead to severe accidents and negative repercussions for everyone.
Bending or ignoring aviation rules and limitations, even if perceived as minor or undetected, carries significant and potentially fatal consequences that ultimately impact individuals and the industry.

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Many years ago, I happened to overhear one pilot ask another, “How did they find out?” The question revolved around a situation resulting from an error in judgment concerning operation of an unairworthy (out-of-annual-inspection) aircraft. While there was no accident, a somewhat unusual event occurred that was traced to a mouse nest in the carburetor heater duct, which caused a rough-running engine. After a precautionary landing, mechanics discovered the problem and thought it was hilarious.

Somehow the word got out to the FAA and, after reviewing the aircraft’s logs, the pilot faced an enforcement action. Knowledge of the predicament spread among local aviators.