Chapter 5: Ground Procedures

CHAPTER FIVE

GROUND PROCEDURES

500.

INTRODUCTION

This chapter discusses the basic procedures and techniques essential to the safe operation of the

airplane on the ground prior to and after a flight. This includes the major points of ensuring that

the airplane is in an airworthy condition, starting and stopping the engine and taxiing the airplane

to and from the line area and the runway.

In the line area, there is usually considerable activity - aircraft may be operating at high power

settings, taxiing in and out of the area, taking off and landing on nearby runways; fuel trucks and

people may be moving about the aircraft. Consequently, constant vigilance must be exercised at

all times while performing ground operations.

The propeller is the most dangerous part of the airplane, since under certain light conditions, it is

difficult to see a revolving propeller. This may give the illusion that it is not there. As a result,

the files of Aviation Safety Offices contain many cases that read, "Victim walked into a rotating

propeller."

While approaching the airplane, the pilot should note the presence of obstructions and articles

such as fire extinguishers, fueling or maintenance equipment or chocks that could be a hazard

when taxiing the airplane.

The accomplishment of a safe, productive flight begins with a careful visual inspection before

the pilot enters the airplane. In addition, a planned routine of starting, Taxiing, Runup and

Before-Takeoff Checklists will assure that the airplane is operating properly while there is still

an opportunity to correct any discrepancy which may appear. When well organized, these

checks can be made quickly and soon will become a matter of habit; the airplane will become

familiar and anything unfamiliar will alert the pilot that something is not as it should be.

The use of appropriate checklists to inspect and start the airplane, as well as for other ground

checks and procedures, is mandatory. Checklists are guidelines for use to ensure that all

necessary items are checked in a logical sequence. The beginning pilot should not get the idea

that a checklist is merely a crutch for poor memory - even the most experienced professional

pilots never attempt to fly without an appropriate checklist. The NATOPS Manual for each

model of aircraft flown by the Navy contains all appropriate checklists for that aircraft.

501.

CONTACT 1001

Description. N/A

General. Prior to your first flight, there are several fundamental topics that you, as a

student aviator, must be aware of and understand if you are to obtain maximum benefit from

your primary training. Make your initial appearance, and each succeeding appearance before

your instructor, a good one. Bear in mind that military courtesy and discipline are important

factors in your training and will continue to be so as long as you are a member of the military

service.

GROUND PROCEDURES

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