5 for 5. Toilet check: no one gets on the plane (including myself) without having visited the toilet first. I don't want anyone asking me to land while in route, and I definitely don't need my mind on a bathroom break while I'm landing an airplane.
5 for 5 - one thing I do that i have not seen others do is when I am inspecting the tires, I ensure that the dot on the tire is aligned up with the valve stem on the rim. This ensures that the tire was correctly installed.
5 for 5! Some things I do beyond the checklist include checking the rudder and elevator cables, and after checking the oil I look into the engine through the little door just to make sure there isn't anything that's not supposed to be in there.
5 for 5. I also check for any loose screws as well as ensuring the cowling latches are closed in the right position. I actually found loose bolts on my trim about 2 years ago during my preflight check and asked the local mechanic to tighten them. The mechanic proceeded to tell me that it was a great call on my part to abort the flight. I also encountered a partially open cowling latch after one of my annuals. IMHP you should always check visually the plane, you never know....
5/5. I check the shock on the nosewheel (at least four fingers) and push down it to make sure it's holding firm. The other thing is is when testing the ailerons, hold the aileron in the up position with one hand while checking the bolt that goes into the middle of it. If someone else brings the aileron down on your finger, you could have broken bones.
5/5 After I finish my preflight, I turn on the master and do what I call an electrical walk-around. I make sure all the position and anti-collision lights are working, and I check the pitot heat and the stall warning. I do this even for day VFR flight.
5 for 5 from a PPL in Canada! Great series!! One the things I always do on a pre-flight, is write down the fluid quantities on my kneeboard pad. L tank, R tank, and oil. This gives me some peace of mind, and a verifiable way of double checking. Also, if there were any issues, I have proof that in fact there was "X" amount, prior to my flight. Safe flying everyone!!
5 for 5! I’m loving this! Thank you Jason! You guys ROCK! I’m a student pilot with 19 hours, plus I’m an aircrew member in the Civil Air Patrol. One of the many things that I check carefully is the tires. The thought of a tire blowing on landing is frightening to me. Plus I know that the tires on a plane used for training take a serious beating. I know that I’ve landed hard way more often than I’ve had a butter landing.
5/5. Love these videos. I train in a C172 from 1976. We always check the attachment of the cowling and the state of the nosewheel (1 inch clear of dirt) and basically everything mechanical in our walkaround. We also check for apparent structural damage (wrinkles in the skin) from hard landings and such. And check that the cargo door is closed and locked. Flew my first solo today BTW.
I also pour a little fuel on a white piece of paper. 100LL when poured on paper dry without leaving residue, there is impurities or junk in it when the paper dries it leaves dark patches or a ring. My Pre-Check starts with a complete walk-around, front view to make sure the aircraft is level, follow the checklist, make sure I have a flashlight to check the belt and actually see when under the cowling.
5 for 5 i would highly recommend checking fluids even if someone tells you they have already checked them. One time the line guy pulls out the 172 and tells me it’s at full tanks. I preflight the whole plane and I wait for my instructor to come outside and decided to just double check the fuel and we had 6 gallons onboard. Not even an hour so definitely check that! One thing that I always do, I always checked all my lights, even if it’s just a short daytime flight i still check!
5 for 5: I fly a Piper Cherokee 6-260. One area I really focus on are the hinge/attachment points for my flight controls. I check to make sure every nut an bolt is secure. And I love my checklist. I have it in hand every time I preflight. A good habit my CFIs have instilled in me.
5 for 5! I own a Piper Cherokee 160 with a CGR-30P engine analyzer that measures my fuel flow and provides an indication of total fuel on board. This is easier with a low wing... the extra thing I do in my walk around is measure my fuel levels in each tank with a dip stick and record them. When back in the aircraft, I compare the total of the measured readings with the total indicated by the CGR and adjust the CGR to match the measured readings.
One thing I learned is that if you preflight your aircraft and leave it unattended such as going inside while you wait for the fuel truck or leaving to use the bathroom, you should another walk around. Don’t assume the aircraft is in the same condition as you left it. I witnessed two hit and runs in one year on the ramp. I also watched a fuel truck operator place chalks and tiedowns before fueling. When the student and instructor returned they jumped in, started up and was about to taxi. I had to run over and wave them off to cut the engine. Always check again if you leave your plane.
5 for 5. Finishing my PPL, something I started over 30 years ago and decided it was time to complete. Besides what you had mentioned, I always make sure to have spare batteries for my handheld radio. If they’re a couple months old by the date I wrote on the package from purchase date, I put those in the handheld and buy new batteries. Then I check the power level in the handheld to make certain it’s showing full batteries.
5 for 5. My checklist item is ‘remove chocks’. I am a low time pilot who learned to fly on a hangered Remos LSA. Chocks had to be removed to pull the thing out of the hanger. Recently got checked out in a 172 and took my wife for a flight. The line crew pulled the plane out of the hanger and chocked it. I did my preflight and started the engine before I realized that the chocks were still in place. Sheepishly, I told my wife, “standby for just a moment” killed the engine, unbuckled, got out and slid the chocks out of the way. So much for looking cool on our first flight together. But at least I didn’t roll over them.
5 for 5, checking in from London. Couldn't go for my qualifying cross country! English weather!!! Loving this series. That oil cap issue!!!! So true!!!! When I do my walk around, I always write down the fuel in each tank and the oil amount on my kneeboard. It helps to not forget which tank is the more full. As part of my checklist, I always make sure sure I have two spare pens and a spare pair of sunglasses / glasses in the side pocket. You never know...
Previously flew in San Diego 25 years so never had these or concerned myself. But now in Boston so this is part of winter pre-flight check list: check fuel primer injectors to ensure soldiered. I didn’t one day and fuel from broken line shot directly into engine compartment. Had actual flames shooting out of cowling. 5 for 5. Keep it rolling, Jason.
23MZ looking good! Flying during colder months, I always check that the front nose strut is working properly and I ALWAYS do a final walk-around after I’ve completed the checklist. I haven’t found anything on that final walk-around yet (key word = yet).
5/5 Michigan has cotton floating in the air all spring - we ALWAYS check the air intake filter ensuring it is clear… Excellent series, thanks Jason!! Bill&Robin😊
5 for 5, Jason. Thank you for another helpful video. The GATS jar demonstration was great. The flying club I belong has several post-flight requirements on the securing checklist of our Skyhawks. Two of the post flight items are to loosen the oil dipstick and leave the oil filler access door open. This serves as a reminder to the next pilot to both check the oil and secure the dipstick. It also alleviates "hulk mode" encounters :) Our aircraft are hangared so this may not be a good practice for planes tied down outside though.
5 for 5. I've learned to check for areas on the outside of the plane that would indicate leaking fluids, like oil or gas stains. There was a time when I found a gas leak because I saw gas streaks on the wing.
5 for 5 in 2023! I was taught a flow method of moving around the plane starting outside the plane at the baggage door and moving toward the tail and circling the plane. When I return to the pilots seat I review the check list to make sure I checked everything. If I missed something, I go back and check it.
5 for 5! One of the things I check carefully is the condition of the landing gear, tires, and brakes. I meticulously check all control surfaces' screws, bolts, and cotter pins and ensure they are all present and in good condition. I always make sure my checklist is with me. After I'm done, I still double check everything during the final walk around.
5 for 5 Jason from Waukegan illinois. . i check also the cables for the flaps and ailerons being in a flying club the tires and brakes are another thing that i inspect thoroughly. Love what you're doing for aviation keep up the great work.
Thanks, Jason! I like to make sure the windscreen is reasonably clean and clear of bugs and debris. Better to notice on the preflight than right before you buckle in. And please do not place your headset up on the dash during pre-flight! Sooner or later that habit can get the inside of your windscreen permanently scratched. Thanks - Don - Tillsonburg Flying School (CYTB). We teach in the 1976 Cessna 172M.
5 for 5. When inspecting my flight controls I like to make sure the hinges and hardware are in good condition and all cotter pins are installed properly. Getting my A&P license has also helped me understand more about my plane and what to look for during preflight
5 for 5 Always learning something new with each video. Thanks for the hard work. One good thing with the training I was getting before I had to stop, was that I was taught to think about the quality of the fuel, oil and alternator belt. I did put in a squawk once for a plane (Cessna 152) that had recently come out of its 100 hr maintenance and the oil was darker than it should have been for getting an oil change.
5/5 Thanks MzeroA Team! I don’t ever want to take your work for granted. You all are appreciated! I do get concerned when I see body parts near or passing through the propeller arc. What’s the fail safe? What exactly does “respect the propeller” mean when we have to reach through the propeller arc on preflight?
Day 5. It's been a long time since I have flown, but before I ever went to the plane I used to go over the Maintenance binder and board for the plane and see what has been done since I last flew or if there was anything new written up by the previous student
545, excellent video. Had no idea what the fuel looked like with water added. I’ve never experienced water in my fuel sump but knowing it separates like oil/water will allow me to be more aware of its appearance. Thx Jason 👊🏾 VKX
5/5. Check the actual fuel levels in the tanks - never trust the analogue gauges. Check the tyres. Look for any fluid leaks in the brake lines. Check the disk pad wear. Check for any blockages in pitot tube, static ports, fuel drain outlets, air intakes. Check that the aircraft is sitting square (ie no hard landing damage - hired aircraft). Throttle cables. Leading edge damage on wings, vertical and horizontal stabilisers. Movement of ailerons (plus all the hinges and actuator nuts and bolts). Gentle pressure on flaps and rudder to check for excess slack. Spinner not loose, plus the items mentioned in your video, of course.
I do all three of the items you demonstrated on every preflight; when checking the GATS jar, I use a white part of the aircraft as the backdrop to see if there’s any separation or evidence of any other contamination in the fuel. And yes, the visible difference between new oil and oil at the 50 hour mark is rather obvious. The last tip, checking the alternator belt, was one I repeatedly missed/overlooked when I was training for my PPL until my CFI noticed. Once he showed me how to check it, I have always done it since. 5 of 5
5 for 5! I check for loose rivets around fairings, leaks around landing gear (brake fluid or oil), worn tires, integrity of light covers/lenses, the regular checklist and my CFI always has me do what you did in the video. It should be a part of every checklist. Thanks for the videos!
5 for 5 great series again Jason. Relatively new PPL here and your videos have been very helpful along the way. I always make sure I check for the correct number of bolts on the elevator connector rods, not just the operation.
5/5 - I have a Cherokee 180. The stabilator is a unique design that needs extra checking beyond just movement like tend to do with most elevators. I was shown how the bearings wear on the stabilator and the first indication is subtle play in the pivot that you only notice by very gently lifting up on the stabilator from each outside tip. So that's something I've added to my preflight while I'm checking the movement of the stabilator and anti-servo trim tab.
It takes me about 30 mins to preflight the Cirrus SR20. I definitely have a method and flow. I've added notes to my checklist on things that I have found or happened that was not part of the checklist. I walk around the entire airplane before I get the checklist out. I touch all the bolts on flaps, tires, wings, everything. Running my hand around the nose cone feeling for anything loose, out of place or different than last time. When you wash planes or do maintenance you really learn to look more closely at things on preflight. I’ve found a piece of chicken wire in the cowling before, bird nests between the ailerons and flaps, loose screws, etc.. I also preflight the inside of the plane which a lot of people I don’t think do but I’ll check seatbelts, seats, doors, windows, circuit breakers, the yoke, throttle, etc.. One of my preflights on the cirrus the yoke handle was loose so I would move it and the ailerons wouldn’t respond until I moved the handle enough to catch. Just the difference in feeling that response was different than normal. Got the mechanic to take a look and tighten it up. Preflight is like prep work for painting a house or installing flooring. The more time and more precise your prep the better the final product.
Loving the videos, Jason! I added checking under the seats to my checklist after a water bottle came rolling out towards the rudder pedals. Apparently, it was left under there by another student.
Appreciate the work and effort you put in your channel. Jealous of your Florida weather, always t shirt weather during pre flights. It was -1 a week ago here, I couldn’t feel my fingers or toes after I preflighted that day!
5/5. I fly the C172 as a student and I also check the air filter and tap the exhaust pipe with the edge of the checklist or my fingernail - it should ring like a bell - if not: it may have a crack in the exhaust! Thanks M0A!
5 for 5 👌🏻 Thank you for the effort you put into these videos, always filled with great knowledge! I also really enjoyed the online ground school and felt that I understood and retained much more than I would have with a more traditional style.
5 for 5, I never knew you could slowly pour the fuel back out of the fuel tester and the water would stay in - crazy! One of the things I learned from an old-school pilot that is not on our checklist to check on a preflight is to gently tap the rear fuselage and listen for loose rivets.
5 for 5 - as a renter I check the tires for skids and the landing gear for any damage from hard landings, and take pictures if I find anything that is different (paint scratched off, etc.) from when I flew that airplane last, unless there is already a squawk for the issuse.
5 for 5. One thing I learned EARLY in my flying is to always start your preflight walkaround from the same part of the airplane. That way you get accustomed to doing the pre-flight the same way each time. For example, I always start on the left side of the nose cowling and work my way around clockwise, finishing where I began. In other words, don't start your walkaround from the left wingtip today and the right side of the tail next flight, then the nose on the flight after that. Pick a spot that you want to start from (typically found in the checklist), and always start and end from the same place.
Awesome 👏 great video teach me a lot;) Thank you very much! Additional check Antennas (COM1-2, GPS, ELT, VOR’s) The bottom edge of the Rudder (Trim Tab) have to be a little banded.
5 for 5. One thing I earn from my instructor was to run my finger along the break line from the fuselage to the tire and just make sure that you don't have a break line crack or fluid leaking slowly.
5 for 5! I preflight a 172M as my plane of choice. I always check the screws on the cowling! The vibrations loosen the screws and could become a bigger problem. I learned this from my Private Pilot DPE to always carry a screw driver.
5/5 for me. On our piper warrior 1973 we replaced the air duct that attaches to the fan and hangs in the back behind the baggage area. It came loose with vibrations and landings and I found it hanging on top of the cables that control the rudder and elevator. My yolk had been a bit tight but it also needed lubrication but this could have possible affected it as well.
Seat security: I had a seat go CLICK and slip back a notch while excelerating during the take off role in a 172. So now I check whilst seated the seat is locked in place. Low experience level at the time so that bang or click gave me a bit of a fright ... 😱 Mark in OZ
5 for 5, huge fan of checklists, both the M20E and the C172 I fly have modified checklist, everything from the POH plus additional content that brings them to a modern checklist. Great work on all you do to educate learners and pilots and promote aviation, Thank You. At 5:17(ish) you mention a 50hr “Minimum?” oil change.. should that have been Max instead?
I’m a drone pilot my checklist involves checking for any updates on the firmware, basically, making sure my battery power is up on both my transmitter and my batteries, making sure that my props are secure, that the gimbal free to rotate and move, that there are no damaging marks on the props or the body of the drone and that there’s no swelling of the batteries that I’m putting in. Then I will check the before you fly app to make sure that I am clear for takeoff, I will check my mini radar screen to see that no other aircraft around my area, and I will also check the UA forecast to see the temperature, wind direction, wind, speed, gusts, I will also get into my settings make sure that my return home altitude is that high enough so that it will not hit any type of obstacles on its way back. If I have to do an emergency return home. And after I raise the drone up, I will let it over there for 5 to 10 seconds to make sure I have a good GPS lock. Oh this is what I do for a drone, how much more is a pilot up in aircraft checking theirs?
Five for five. Before I fire up I do a trip to the bathroom, plus a final sanity-check walkaround - fuel caps, cowl, tow bar, etc. Is the plane ready to go? Am I ready to go?
I check the horse shoe part on the Rudder cable's. I had a rudder failure on landing a while ago and it turned the the horse shoe section that the rudder cable's where attached to was corroded
5 for 5. On Piper PA28s, inspect the stabilator actuator rod to ensure the lock nut is on there. Ditto for the rudder pivot. For Arrows equipped with the Backup Gear Extender, ensure its air sensor is free of crud.
One thing I notice that is ALWAYS missed on PA28s, and often NOT on the checklist, is the pitot-static drains. Make sure you’re pushing those two little button valves to makes sure there’s no water your pitot-static lines!
5 for 5. Keep 'em coming!! I fly a Grumman Tiger, so some differences are checking the ailerons for play (they are attached with a long rod), ailerons counter weights, and the rudder deflection (since its not connected to the nose wheel). I would appreciate some advise on checking tire pressures around the wheel fairings. I've attempted to mark the wheels where the valve stems are, but I haven't been able to get the pressure gauge under the fairing without a lot of maneuvering. Thoughts? Thank you!!
I must admit, I don't use a physical check list. I probably should. But, I've owned my Archer since 1985. So, I kind of know it by heart. I check for water in the fuel every flight, although I never found any in all my years of flying. I have noticed the blue dye at times. Then, I know it's time to clean the drains, and I need to fly more. (-: 5/5
5/5 My feeling is that you can't be criticized for spending too much time on preflight! One morning, I noticed a little bit of straw on the ground (owned a Cherokee a few years ago) Opened the cowl, and found a very complete bird nest on top of the engine, near the carburetor air intake! If I was even able to start the engine, it could have sucked the straw into the carburetor, and the flight would have become very interesting rather suddenly! I had flown the plane the day before, so the "construction" happened overnight... From that point on, whenever I was parked on an outside tie-down, full inspection inside the cowl (and tail) became a requirement. Even now, in a hangar with our Comanche, I still check under the hood, since it is hinged and easily accessible.
If the aircraft has static wicks, make sure the earthing braid is present intact and secure. Check the tank breathers are secure and facing forwards, check hinges for the correct number of screws and the slide pin is centralised. Ensure any cable attachments on control surfaces have locking wire.
5 for 5 from Hungary 🇭🇺 What additional things I check during a preflight? Probably knocking the underside of the fuselage (C152, C172) while walking towards the tail section - a mechanic once told me that if something would have disconnected in there, I’d hear the pieces rattling around.
5 for 5. Toilet check: no one gets on the plane (including myself) without having visited the toilet first. I don't want anyone asking me to land while in route, and I definitely don't need my mind on a bathroom break while I'm landing an airplane.
5 for 5 - one thing I do that i have not seen others do is when I am inspecting the tires, I ensure that the dot on the tire is aligned up with the valve stem on the rim. This ensures that the tire was correctly installed.
5 for 5! Some things I do beyond the checklist include checking the rudder and elevator cables, and after checking the oil I look into the engine through the little door just to make sure there isn't anything that's not supposed to be in there.
5 for 5. I also check for any loose screws as well as ensuring the cowling latches are closed in the right position. I actually found loose bolts on my trim about 2 years ago during my preflight check and asked the local mechanic to tighten them. The mechanic proceeded to tell me that it was a great call on my part to abort the flight. I also encountered a partially open cowling latch after one of my annuals. IMHP you should always check visually the plane, you never know....
5 for 5 love the preflight video..I train in the C172, and I always double check that fuel cap is on and tightened above the wings.
5/5. I check the shock on the nosewheel (at least four fingers) and push down it to make sure it's holding firm. The other thing is is when testing the ailerons, hold the aileron in the up position with one hand while checking the bolt that goes into the middle of it. If someone else brings the aileron down on your finger, you could have broken bones.
5/5
After I finish my preflight, I turn on the master and do what I call an electrical walk-around. I make sure all the position and anti-collision lights are working, and I check the pitot heat and the stall warning. I do this even for day VFR flight.
5 for 5 from a PPL in Canada! Great series!! One the things I always do on a pre-flight, is write down the fluid quantities on my kneeboard pad. L tank, R tank, and oil. This gives me some peace of mind, and a verifiable way of double checking. Also, if there were any issues, I have proof that in fact there was "X" amount, prior to my flight. Safe flying everyone!!
I agree and do the same as I have forgotten to switch tanks on a 1hr flight luckily they were both full.
5 for 5! I’m loving this! Thank you Jason! You guys ROCK! I’m a student pilot with 19 hours, plus I’m an aircrew member in the Civil Air Patrol. One of the many things that I check carefully is the tires. The thought of a tire blowing on landing is frightening to me. Plus I know that the tires on a plane used for training take a serious beating. I know that I’ve landed hard way more often than I’ve had a butter landing.
5/5. Love these videos. I train in a C172 from 1976. We always check the attachment of the cowling and the state of the nosewheel (1 inch clear of dirt) and basically everything mechanical in our walkaround. We also check for apparent structural damage (wrinkles in the skin) from hard landings and such. And check that the cargo door is closed and locked. Flew my first solo today BTW.
5 for 5 and stay’n alive ✈️
I also pour a little fuel on a white piece of paper. 100LL when poured on paper dry without leaving residue, there is impurities or junk in it when the paper dries it leaves dark patches or a ring. My Pre-Check starts with a complete walk-around, front view to make sure the aircraft is level, follow the checklist, make sure I have a flashlight to check the belt and actually see when under the cowling.
5 for 5 i would highly recommend checking fluids even if someone tells you they have already checked them. One time the line guy pulls out the 172 and tells me it’s at full tanks. I preflight the whole plane and I wait for my instructor to come outside and decided to just double check the fuel and we had 6 gallons onboard. Not even an hour so definitely check that! One thing that I always do, I always checked all my lights, even if it’s just a short daytime flight i still check!
5 for 5: I fly a Piper Cherokee 6-260. One area I really focus on are the hinge/attachment points for my flight controls. I check to make sure every nut an bolt is secure. And I love my checklist. I have it in hand every time I preflight. A good habit my CFIs have instilled in me.
5 for 5! I own a Piper Cherokee 160 with a CGR-30P engine analyzer that measures my fuel flow and provides an indication of total fuel on board. This is easier with a low wing... the extra thing I do in my walk around is measure my fuel levels in each tank with a dip stick and record them. When back in the aircraft, I compare the total of the measured readings with the total indicated by the CGR and adjust the CGR to match the measured readings.
One thing I learned is that if you preflight your aircraft and leave it unattended such as going inside while you wait for the fuel truck or leaving to use the bathroom, you should another walk around. Don’t assume the aircraft is in the same condition as you left it. I witnessed two hit and runs in one year on the ramp. I also watched a fuel truck operator place chalks and tiedowns before fueling. When the student and instructor returned they jumped in, started up and was about to taxi. I had to run over and wave them off to cut the engine. Always check again if you leave your plane.
5 for 5 ! Great tips in here and taught me a little more than I realized about the fuel sumping! Thanks for always teaching above the minimums Jason.
5 for 5. Finishing my PPL, something I started over 30 years ago and decided it was time to complete. Besides what you had mentioned, I always make sure to have spare batteries for my handheld radio. If they’re a couple months old by the date I wrote on the package from purchase date, I put those in the handheld and buy new batteries. Then I check the power level in the handheld to make certain it’s showing full batteries.
5 for 5. My checklist item is ‘remove chocks’. I am a low time pilot who learned to fly on a hangered Remos LSA. Chocks had to be removed to pull the thing out of the hanger. Recently got checked out in a 172 and took my wife for a flight. The line crew pulled the plane out of the hanger and chocked it. I did my preflight and started the engine before I realized that the chocks were still in place. Sheepishly, I told my wife, “standby for just a moment” killed the engine, unbuckled, got out and slid the chocks out of the way. So much for looking cool on our first flight together. But at least I didn’t roll over them.
5 for 5, checking in from London. Couldn't go for my qualifying cross country! English weather!!!
Loving this series. That oil cap issue!!!! So true!!!!
When I do my walk around, I always write down the fuel in each tank and the oil amount on my kneeboard. It helps to not forget which tank is the more full.
As part of my checklist, I always make sure sure I have two spare pens and a spare pair of sunglasses / glasses in the side pocket. You never know...
Previously flew in San Diego 25 years so never had these or concerned myself. But now in Boston so this is part of winter pre-flight check list: check fuel primer injectors to ensure soldiered. I didn’t one day and fuel from broken line shot directly into engine compartment. Had actual flames shooting out of cowling.
5 for 5. Keep it rolling, Jason.
23MZ looking good! Flying during colder months, I always check that the front nose strut is working properly and I ALWAYS do a final walk-around after I’ve completed the checklist. I haven’t found anything on that final walk-around yet (key word = yet).
5 for 5. Great information on going beyond just checking boxes in your pre-flight. Actually spend some time ensuring the plane is safe to fly.
5/5
Michigan has cotton floating in the air all spring - we ALWAYS check the air intake filter ensuring it is clear…
Excellent series, thanks Jason!! Bill&Robin😊
5 for 5, Jason. Thank you for another helpful video. The GATS jar demonstration was great. The flying club I belong has several post-flight requirements on the securing checklist of our Skyhawks. Two of the post flight items are to loosen the oil dipstick and leave the oil filler access door open. This serves as a reminder to the next pilot to both check the oil and secure the dipstick. It also alleviates "hulk mode" encounters :) Our aircraft are hangared so this may not be a good practice for planes tied down outside though.
5 for 5. I've learned to check for areas on the outside of the plane that would indicate leaking fluids, like oil or gas stains. There was a time when I found a gas leak because I saw gas streaks on the wing.
5 for 5 in 2023! I was taught a flow method of moving around the plane starting outside the plane at the baggage door and moving toward the tail and circling the plane. When I return to the pilots seat I review the check list to make sure I checked everything. If I missed something, I go back and check it.
5 for 5 and loving these videos! I love that you show all the items in detail as you are speaking about them and the checklist process.
5 for 5! One of the things I check carefully is the condition of the landing gear, tires, and brakes. I meticulously check all control surfaces' screws, bolts, and cotter pins and ensure they are all present and in good condition. I always make sure my checklist is with me. After I'm done, I still double check everything during the final walk around.
5 for 5!! Enjoy these every time!
5 for 5 Jason from Waukegan illinois. . i check also the cables for the flaps and ailerons being in a flying club the tires and brakes are another thing that i inspect thoroughly. Love what you're doing for aviation keep up the great work.
Thanks, Jason! I like to make sure the windscreen is reasonably clean and clear of bugs and debris. Better to notice on the preflight than right before you buckle in. And please do not place your headset up on the dash during pre-flight! Sooner or later that habit can get the inside of your windscreen permanently scratched. Thanks - Don - Tillsonburg Flying School (CYTB). We teach in the 1976 Cessna 172M.
5 for 5. When inspecting my flight controls I like to make sure the hinges and hardware are in good condition and all cotter pins are installed properly. Getting my A&P license has also helped me understand more about my plane and what to look for during preflight
5 for 5.On the 172's I fly, I check the aileron weights to make sure each side has the same amount of weights to prevent aileron flutter.
5 for 5 Always learning something new with each video. Thanks for the hard work. One good thing with the training I was getting before I had to stop, was that I was taught to think about the quality of the fuel, oil and alternator belt. I did put in a squawk once for a plane (Cessna 152) that had recently come out of its 100 hr maintenance and the oil was darker than it should have been for getting an oil change.
Five for five from a student pilot in Missouri! Love these!
5/5 Thanks MzeroA Team! I don’t ever want to take your work for granted. You all are appreciated! I do get concerned when I see body parts near or passing through the propeller arc. What’s the fail safe? What exactly does “respect the propeller” mean when we have to reach through the propeller arc on preflight?
Day 5. It's been a long time since I have flown, but before I ever went to the plane I used to go over the Maintenance binder and board for the plane and see what has been done since I last flew or if there was anything new written up by the previous student
5/5. Great explanation. I appreciate the time and effort you put into your content delivery.
545, excellent video. Had no idea what the fuel looked like with water added. I’ve never experienced water in my fuel sump but knowing it separates like oil/water will allow me to be more aware of its appearance. Thx Jason 👊🏾 VKX
5/5. Check the actual fuel levels in the tanks - never trust the analogue gauges. Check the tyres. Look for any fluid leaks in the brake lines. Check the disk pad wear. Check for any blockages in pitot tube, static ports, fuel drain outlets, air intakes. Check that the aircraft is sitting square (ie no hard landing damage - hired aircraft). Throttle cables. Leading edge damage on wings, vertical and horizontal stabilisers. Movement of ailerons (plus all the hinges and actuator nuts and bolts). Gentle pressure on flaps and rudder to check for excess slack. Spinner not loose, plus the items mentioned in your video, of course.
I do all three of the items you demonstrated on every preflight; when checking the GATS jar, I use a white part of the aircraft as the backdrop to see if there’s any separation or evidence of any other contamination in the fuel. And yes, the visible difference between new oil and oil at the 50 hour mark is rather obvious. The last tip, checking the alternator belt, was one I repeatedly missed/overlooked when I was training for my PPL until my CFI noticed. Once he showed me how to check it, I have always done it since. 5 of 5
5 for 5!!!! Keep them coming. Great job!!!!!
This video series is AWESOME!
5 for 5! I check for loose rivets around fairings, leaks around landing gear (brake fluid or oil), worn tires, integrity of light covers/lenses, the regular checklist and my CFI always has me do what you did in the video. It should be a part of every checklist. Thanks for the videos!
5 for 5 great series again Jason. Relatively new PPL here and your videos have been very helpful along the way. I always make sure I check for the correct number of bolts on the elevator connector rods, not just the operation.
5/5 - I have a Cherokee 180. The stabilator is a unique design that needs extra checking beyond just movement like tend to do with most elevators. I was shown how the bearings wear on the stabilator and the first indication is subtle play in the pivot that you only notice by very gently lifting up on the stabilator from each outside tip. So that's something I've added to my preflight while I'm checking the movement of the stabilator and anti-servo trim tab.
It takes me about 30 mins to preflight the Cirrus SR20. I definitely have a method and flow. I've added notes to my checklist on things that I have found or happened that was not part of the checklist. I walk around the entire airplane before I get the checklist out. I touch all the bolts on flaps, tires, wings, everything. Running my hand around the nose cone feeling for anything loose, out of place or different than last time. When you wash planes or do maintenance you really learn to look more closely at things on preflight.
I’ve found a piece of chicken wire in the cowling before, bird nests between the ailerons and flaps, loose screws, etc..
I also preflight the inside of the plane which a lot of people I don’t think do but I’ll check seatbelts, seats, doors, windows, circuit breakers, the yoke, throttle, etc.. One of my preflights on the cirrus the yoke handle was loose so I would move it and the ailerons wouldn’t respond until I moved the handle enough to catch. Just the difference in feeling that response was different than normal. Got the mechanic to take a look and tighten it up.
Preflight is like prep work for painting a house or installing flooring. The more time and more precise your prep the better the final product.
Loving the videos, Jason! I added checking under the seats to my checklist after a water bottle came rolling out towards the rudder pedals. Apparently, it was left under there by another student.
Appreciate the work and effort you put in your channel. Jealous of your Florida weather, always t shirt weather during pre flights. It was -1 a week ago here, I couldn’t feel my fingers or toes after I preflighted that day!
5/5. I fly the C172 as a student and I also check the air filter and tap the exhaust pipe with the edge of the checklist or my fingernail - it should ring like a bell - if not: it may have a crack in the exhaust! Thanks M0A!
5 for 5 👌🏻
Thank you for the effort you put into these videos, always filled with great knowledge! I also really enjoyed the online ground school and felt that I understood and retained much more than I would have with a more traditional style.
I took a lot of notes on this one. I also check for any loose screws on the wings and other impotrant parts of the plane.
Another great series Jason...thank you
5 for 5…..all caught up Jason!
Thank you for the videos!
Great additional tips ! thank you again Jason
5 for 5, I never knew you could slowly pour the fuel back out of the fuel tester and the water would stay in - crazy! One of the things I learned from an old-school pilot that is not on our checklist to check on a preflight is to gently tap the rear fuselage and listen for loose rivets.
5 for 5 - as a renter I check the tires for skids and the landing gear for any damage from hard landings, and take pictures if I find anything that is different (paint scratched off, etc.) from when I flew that airplane last, unless there is already a squawk for the issuse.
5 for 5. One thing I learned EARLY in my flying is to always start your preflight walkaround from the same part of the airplane. That way you get accustomed to doing the pre-flight the same way each time. For example, I always start on the left side of the nose cowling and work my way around clockwise, finishing where I began.
In other words, don't start your walkaround from the left wingtip today and the right side of the tail next flight, then the nose on the flight after that. Pick a spot that you want to start from (typically found in the checklist), and always start and end from the same place.
Awesome 👏 great video teach me a lot;)
Thank you very much!
Additional check Antennas (COM1-2, GPS, ELT, VOR’s)
The bottom edge of the Rudder (Trim Tab) have to be a little banded.
5 for 5. One thing I earn from my instructor was to run my finger along the break line from the fuselage to the tire and just make sure that you don't have a break line crack or fluid leaking slowly.
5 for 5! I preflight a 172M as my plane of choice. I always check the screws on the cowling! The vibrations loosen the screws and could become a bigger problem. I learned this from my Private Pilot DPE to always carry a screw driver.
5/5 for me. On our piper warrior 1973 we replaced the air duct that attaches to the fan and hangs in the back behind the baggage area. It came loose with vibrations and landings and I found it hanging on top of the cables that control the rudder and elevator. My yolk had been a bit tight but it also needed lubrication but this could have possible affected it as well.
You know, I always wondered why there was a screen on my fuel tester! Good stuff!
Seat security: I had a seat go CLICK and slip back a notch while excelerating during the take off role in a 172. So now I check whilst seated the seat is locked in place. Low experience level at the time so that bang or click gave me a bit of a fright ... 😱
Mark in OZ
5 of 5. Very informative.
5 for 5, huge fan of checklists, both the M20E and the C172 I fly have modified checklist, everything from the POH plus additional content that brings them to a modern checklist. Great work on all you do to educate learners and pilots and promote aviation, Thank You. At 5:17(ish) you mention a 50hr “Minimum?” oil change.. should that have been Max instead?
I’m a drone pilot my checklist involves checking for any updates on the firmware, basically, making sure my battery power is up on both my transmitter and my batteries, making sure that my props are secure, that the gimbal free to rotate and move, that there are no damaging marks on the props or the body of the drone and that there’s no swelling of the batteries that I’m putting in. Then I will check the before you fly app to make sure that I am clear for takeoff, I will check my mini radar screen to see that no other aircraft around my area, and I will also check the UA forecast to see the temperature, wind direction, wind, speed, gusts, I will also get into my settings make sure that my return home altitude is that high enough so that it will not hit any type of obstacles on its way back. If I have to do an emergency return home. And after I raise the drone up, I will let it over there for 5 to 10 seconds to make sure I have a good GPS lock. Oh this is what I do for a drone, how much more is a pilot up in aircraft checking theirs?
545 --- on the cessnas---especially the 150 & 152, inspect the rudder horn for corrosion
5 for 5 from Australia. Keep up the good work.
5 for 5. I have a 73 Piper PA28-180 Cherokee Challenger. My extra preflight is checking the 4 bolts holding the stabilator onto the airplane.
Five for five.
Before I fire up I do a trip to the bathroom, plus a final sanity-check walkaround - fuel caps, cowl, tow bar, etc. Is the plane ready to go? Am I ready to go?
5/5 have both manual and electronic checklist that is done EVERY TIME we fly- no exception!
Great video!!! Missed it yesterday
I check the horse shoe part on the Rudder cable's. I had a rudder failure on landing a while ago and it turned the the horse shoe section that the rudder cable's where attached to was corroded
5 for 5. On Piper PA28s, inspect the stabilator actuator rod to ensure the lock nut is on there. Ditto for the rudder pivot. For Arrows equipped with the Backup Gear Extender, ensure its air sensor is free of crud.
5 for 5! Loving this!
5 for 5 Love the video great information.
5/5 - When I check my lights I also turn my pitot heat on and check that it is working by touching the pitot tube and making sure it's warm.
5-5 flying the cirrus Sr20, really important to make sure the caps deployment area isnt damaged at all
5 for 5 Thank you for the wonderful job you do.
5 for 5, great detailed info on those preflight items, thank you.
5 for 5! Thanks Jason!
Great job sir. Thank you.
5 for 5. After doing my pre-flight, I always make a point to walk around the plane making sure all tie downs are free and coiled properly.
One thing I notice that is ALWAYS missed on PA28s, and often NOT on the checklist, is the pitot-static drains. Make sure you’re pushing those two little button valves to makes sure there’s no water your pitot-static lines!
5! Double and triple checks. It’s your life as well as others that you are protecting. Last minute weather checks also.
5 for 5. Thanks Jason!
5 for 5. Keep 'em coming!! I fly a Grumman Tiger, so some differences are checking the ailerons for play (they are attached with a long rod), ailerons counter weights, and the rudder deflection (since its not connected to the nose wheel).
I would appreciate some advise on checking tire pressures around the wheel fairings. I've attempted to mark the wheels where the valve stems are, but I haven't been able to get the pressure gauge under the fairing without a lot of maneuvering. Thoughts? Thank you!!
5 for 5. I always stick the fuel tanks with a Fuel Hawk gauge made for my make/model. It is good to know how much fuel is really in there.
5 for 5!
I really check to make sure there isn’t any break fluid leaking
I must admit, I don't use a physical check list. I probably should. But, I've owned my Archer since 1985. So, I kind of know it by heart. I check for water in the fuel every flight, although I never found any in all my years of flying. I have noticed the blue dye at times. Then, I know it's time to clean the drains, and I need to fly more. (-: 5/5
Like to use the back of my hand/fingers when checking the prop. The back of the hand is more sensitive when feeling for nicks etc.
5/5 My feeling is that you can't be criticized for spending too much time on preflight! One morning, I noticed a little bit of straw on the ground (owned a Cherokee a few years ago) Opened the cowl, and found a very complete bird nest on top of the engine, near the carburetor air intake! If I was even able to start the engine, it could have sucked the straw into the carburetor, and the flight would have become very interesting rather suddenly! I had flown the plane the day before, so the "construction" happened overnight...
From that point on, whenever I was parked on an outside tie-down, full inspection inside the cowl (and tail) became a requirement. Even now, in a hangar with our Comanche, I still check under the hood, since it is hinged and easily accessible.
My last builder could take a tip or two on construction time lines from that little birdy .....🐦
If the aircraft has static wicks, make sure the earthing braid is present intact and secure. Check the tank breathers are secure and facing forwards, check hinges for the correct number of screws and the slide pin is centralised. Ensure any cable attachments on control surfaces have locking wire.
5 for 5. C172N I always check the lights and pitot heat on an initial walk around before doing the checklist
5 for 5 from Hungary 🇭🇺
What additional things I check during a preflight? Probably knocking the underside of the fuselage (C152, C172) while walking towards the tail section - a mechanic once told me that if something would have disconnected in there, I’d hear the pieces rattling around.
5 for 5. Great video!
5 for 5! Thanks for the videos!
Aileron belt on SR20 and I also step back to see if the composite is collapsing which could be a sign of fatigue
5/5 always check the safety wiring and cotter pins!
5 for 5! I have a nanchang cj6. Have to pull the prop through minimum 10 blades to check for hydraulic lock!