Originally published in 1999
By Bill Gunn
Aviation Division
I don’t under rand some things, aircraft accidents being one of them. Oh, I know the mechanics of the crash, a list of thing done poorly, incorrectly, or not at all; actions done too soon or too late, perhaps, mechanical failure rarely will cause a plane to crash.
What I do understand is that statistics of most aircraft accidents point to the pilot in command as the primary cause for the mishap – 75 percent of the time!
We are all creatures of habit. Best advice is to develop good habits when flying. A simple and easy mnemonic can really make a difference. In your mind’s eye evaluate yourself and check yourself before you fly. Ready? I’m SAFE! Illness-Medication-Stress-Alcohol-Fatigue-Eating (nourishment).
Some pilots will privately write down this “list of things to do” before the flight and carefully review their situation. Others like me, say this list out loud and will check to see, if I measure up at this moment to my personal standards.
When you have passed your evaluation, the key is to stick to your decisions once you have made them.
How much is too much? A great deal when it comes to the safety of yourself and your passengers!