Register

The Second Walkaround

Gemini Sparkle

Key Takeaways:

  • Pilots can overlook critical issues like forgotten tiedowns or missing major components, even after meticulous preflight inspections, often due to focusing too much on details and missing the "bigger picture."
  • Such oversights, though embarrassing, highlight the potential for pilots to miss obvious safety elements despite standard procedures.
  • The author advocates for a two-stage preflight: a detailed inspection followed by a quick, holistic walkaround to ensure all major components are present, tiedowns are removed, and the surroundings are clear for departure.
See a mistake? Contact us.

One of the most embarrassing things that can happen to a pilot is the case where he starts his airplane’s engine, advances the throttle and goes nowhere – because he forgot to undo the tiedown at the tail.

It has happened to plenty of pilots, even those who have performed meticulous preflight inspections and yet for whatever reason neglected to see the bigger picture as they focused on every bolt, rivet and cable on their airplane.

Ready to Sell Your Aircraft?

List your airplane on AircraftForSale.com and reach qualified buyers.

List Your Aircraft
AircraftForSale Logo | FLYING Logo
Pilot in aircraft
Sign-up for newsletters & special offers!

Get the latest stories & special offers delivered directly to your inbox.

SUBSCRIBE