30 March 2014 1245Z
General consensus exists in the aviation community that takeoff and landing are two dangerous phases of flight. The plane is low and slow and the pilot is engaged in a complex series of decisions. To help mitigate the dangers, experts advise using a checklist before taking the active runway or before landing on one.
Below is one such checklist that I use before taking the active runway. It was developed by colleagues at Cirrus Aircraft, and provides valuable guidance on making decisions which, if needed, can be implemented immediately. (Note: I’ve inserted “sample” data on the briefing to complete the task.)
Consider reading and executing such a briefing yourself before every flight.
Take Off Briefing
“We’re holding short of runway _(27L)__ on taxiway ___A___ awaiting takeoff clearance. Available distance for takeoff on this runway is _5004’_ and today we have a takeoff distance of _1252’_, initial heading and altitude will be __330 degrees__ or as assigned by ATC. In the event of a loss of directional control, annunciator illumination, engine failure, or system malfunction prior to Vr, I will abort the takeoff. If an engine failure occurs after Vr, we well land the airplane straight ahead, maneuvering around obstacles as necessary. Any other malfunction after Vr, we will plan to return to runway __9L__ for a visual/instrument approach.” (Excerpt adapted from Cirrus SR-20 manual, 2005, p. 4-17. Sample data added).
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