The Common Aviation Joint Steering Committee (GAJSC) is urging pilots and plane operators to pay nearer consideration to an often-overlooked however vital step earlier than flight: verifying the Approval for Return to Service within the plane logbook.
A latest security enhancement matter highlights a troubling development—pilots taking off in plane which can be nonetheless present process upkeep or haven’t been formally returned to service. In a number of deadly accidents, the widespread thread was a lacking or incomplete logbook entry approving the plane as airworthy.
Backside line? If it’s not within the logbook, it’s not able to fly.
In response to 14 CFR §43.9, any upkeep or alteration have to be accompanied by a written entry that features a description of the work carried out, the date, the technician’s identify, and—most significantly—the signature and certificates variety of the particular person authorizing return to service.
Pilots are inspired to carry out an “superior preflight” after upkeep, starting with an intensive evaluation of the plane’s documentation. Even when the “Do Not Fly” placard is gone or the mechanic provides a verbal thumbs-up, you have to affirm that the logbook accommodates a signed return-to-service assertion.
Pilots are inspired to carry out an “superior preflight” after upkeep.
Further suggestions:
Use a guidelines throughout your preflight.
Examine areas affected by upkeep for leaks, unfastened {hardware}, or reassembly points.
Keep within the sample for the primary flight post-maintenance.
For extra steering, see the FAA’s Upkeep Information Advisory Round and Superior Preflight After Upkeep reality sheet.
In relation to plane readiness, don’t depend on assumptions—at all times verify the e-book.
Learn the entire discover.
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