PIF 07-08

SAFETYGRAM

11 June 07

Landings

Last month we discussed the takeoff portion of the new FAA Safety Team emphasis items. This month, as promised, we will discuss landings. Remember, the 2006 Nall Report lists that the takeoff/climb and landing phases of flight accounted for nearly 57% of pilot related accidents in 2005 (latest data available). The landing phase alone accounted for 41% of the pilot related accidents. There were a total of 1072 pilot related accidents in 2005 of which 446 occurred landing. On a positive note, only 8 were fatal. Reducing landing accidents would really improve the overall accident rate. So, here comes the discussion of landings.

How can a pilot reduce the chance of being involved in a landing accident? AOPA provides four common accident scenarios for landings in an AOPA Pilot magazine article series titled “Ounce of Prevention”. Do any of these scenarios sound familiar? Each is an all too common accident cause in NTSB reports.

1. Lack of eye-hand coordination
2. Failure to handle windy conditions properly
3. Fatigue or complacency after an uneventful flight
4. Inadequate crosswind correction or improper technique

Just like last month, we won’t talk about the causes without giving some solutions. Here are some recommended actions to help prevent landing accidents. They will ensure pilots have a good plan, and are either proficient enough to execute the plan, or wise enough not to attempt the landing in the prevailing conditions.

1. Know the weather and wind conditions at the airport of intended landing.

2. Know your limitations—never attempt a landing in conditions beyond your capabilities.

3. Know the airplanes capabilities—never attempt a landing beyond the airplanes capabilities.

4. Fly a good pattern and be stabilized on final approach—most good landings start out as good approaches; and bad landings usually come from bad approaches.

5. Never try to force an airplane onto the ground.

6. “Fly” the aircraft until it is safely stopped—don’t relax just because the mains are on the ground.

7. If any of the above conditions are not favorable for landing—Go Around!

Of note, probably the best strategy is the “Go-Around.” Early use of this action would prevent almost all landing accidents…profound, isn’t it?

The bulk of the summer flying season is approaching rapidly. If you haven’t already done so, perhaps now would be a good time to schedule an instructor and hit the pattern for an hour or so – and look for some crosswinds to practice in with an instructor. Know your personal limits and live with them! As always….

FLY SAFE!