The modern piston-engine airplane is really a technological marvel. For not that much more in fuel than a large SUV, one can operate an airplane in and through most weather conditions, over long distances and with navigational accuracy unheard of just a few years ago. At our fingertips are all kinds of aeronautical data and weather graphics. We have airborne sensors alerting us to thunderstorms and nearby airplanes. With the right equipment, we can send e-mail or make telephone calls, all from the comfort of our left seat.
Despite advanced avionics, modern piston aircraft engines and many airframes remain largely unchanged since the 1930s, contributing significantly to mechanical failures and accidents.
While internal engine failures can be unpredictable, a substantial number of engine-related accidents are preventable through diligent pilot and owner actions.
Key areas for improving reliability and safety include meticulous fuel management, regular oil changes and analysis, and thorough pre-flight and periodic inspections of accessories, controls, propellers, and exhaust systems.
The modern piston-engine airplane is really a technological marvel. For not
that much more in fuel than a large SUV, one can operate an airplane in and through most weather conditions, over long distances and with navigational accuracy unheard of just a few years ago. At our fingertips are all kinds of aeronautical data and weather graphics. We have airborne sensors alerting us to thunderstorms and nearby airplanes. With the right equipment, we can send e-mail or make telephone calls, all from the comfort of our left seat.
Thats the good news. The bad news is that-with notable exceptions like the Cirrus, Columbia and a too-small handful of others, the airframes havent improved much since the 1930s. But the really bad news is that-despite small refinements here and there and enlightened ways to operate them-the engines havent improved, either. Sure, turbo diesels like the Thielert show great promise and amazing efficiencies can be achieved, even with standard fare from Lycoming and Continental. But piston aircraft engines too often remain a troublesome collection of spare parts flying in close formation, searching for a Zip Code in which to begin an NTSB investigation.
288
CREATE A FREE ACCOUNT
Sign up to keep reading
Create a free account to continue. Already a member? Sign in below.
