Do-List vs. Checklist

Checklist…checklist…checklist. Its been drummed into us to use a checklist since our first lesson. And, indeed, we should be using a checklist. Unfortunately, most of the so-called checklists out there are actually do lists-step-by-step instructions on how to do stuff, formatted in checklist form. Of course, do-lists have their place during training, but most accomplished pilots should be using a checklist. …

Editorial Staff

Friday, August 01, 2014 at 12:00 AM ET

Verified

Key Takeaways:

Many pilot "checklists" are actually inefficient "do-lists" (step-by-step instructions) that become burdensome for experienced pilots, potentially leading to them being skipped when time is critical.
The article advocates for experienced pilots to perform tasks using an established "flow" (muscle memory sequence) and then use a concise "checklist" primarily for verifying that all necessary actions have been completed, enhancing safety and efficiency.
Pilots are encouraged to create personalized, streamlined, and flow-oriented checklists for frequently flown aircraft, organizing items logically and removing unnecessary detail found in manufacturer do-lists.

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Checklist…checklist…checklist. It’s been drummed into us to use a checklist since our first lesson. And, indeed, we should be using a checklist. Unfortunately, most of the so-called “checklists” out there are actually “do” lists—step-by-step instructions on how to do stuff, formatted in checklist form. Of course, do-lists have their place during training, but most “accomplished” pilots should be using a checklist.