Tecnam Pre-Flight Inspection

The general idea of a Pre-Flight Inspection is to SYSTEMATICALLY move from one point on the exterior of your aircraft in a consistent direction all around your aircraft back to where you began. Firstly, ensure that the park brake is ON, the ignition switches are OFF, the throttle is fully OUT, and the key is removed from the ignition. You will be looking for anything that is unusual; loose nuts, bolts, screws; loose or working rivets (evidenced by a shadow that can be wiped clean); the integrity of all control surfaces; hinges; leaks; sound brake lines. In short: anything different or unusual or suspicious. By checking fuel levels prior to the airframe check, any added fuel will have a chance to settle during the walkaround so your fuel integrity check will be more reliable.

Under the engine cowling, you will be checking oil and coolant levels; soundness of wires, hoses, spark plugs and exhaust springs. Check for leaks - by keeping your lower cowling clean, you will more easily detect a single drip of oil/coolant/fuel. Again, by learning what is USUAL and NORMAL under your cowling, you will be better equipped to detect when something is DIFFERENT.

And if you have any doubt about anything at all, contact someone who can advise you.

Remember, our Pre-Flight Inspection is the last chance we get to examine our aircraft with no pressure on us whatsover, prior to becoming airborne. A thorough and informed Pre-Flight Inspection plays a major part in enabling our proposed flight to be the enjoyable and exhilarating experience that we seek.

Safe Flying,

The Tecnam Team, Australia