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:
- In-flight failures of major control surfaces are extremely difficult, if not impossible, to recover from.
- A "positive control check" is a crucial two-person preflight procedure, especially after maintenance or for unfamiliar aircraft.
- This check involves one person holding a control surface while the other operates its actuator, ensuring proper linkage and movement in both directions.
- It is more thorough than a standard runup control check, as demonstrated by an incident where a pilot only realized his elevator was only connected for 'up' movement after takeoff.
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