There are some in-flight failures that are extremely difficult, if not impossible, to recover from. One such malfunction is the failure of a major control surface. A positive control check is part of the preflight procedures section of the practical test standards for gliders since they are often assembled right before the flight. While a positive control check may not be warranted for each flight in certified airplanes, it’s definitely worth doing every time there has been any type of maintenance done to the airplane or if you’re flying an airplane that is not yours.
Positive Control Check
Key Takeaways:
- Failure of a major control surface is extremely dangerous and difficult to recover from, highlighting the importance of thorough pre-flight checks.
- A "positive control check," requiring two people (one inside the cockpit, one outside), is recommended after maintenance, when flying an unfamiliar aircraft, or with aircraft assembled on-site.
- This two-person check is crucial because it can reveal disconnected control linkages that a standard run-up control check might miss, as gravity can sometimes mask a lack of proper connection.
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