Flightnav.co.uk

Well unfortunately it's that time of year again, and it seems that there has been a dramatic change in the weather of late, so it's time to remind everyone of steps we can all take to ensure we have a safe winter flying season.  The CAA have released a reminder leaflet which is available here: http://www.caa.co.uk/docs/33/ga_srg_09webSSL03October.pdf so go take a look. 

As a quick reminder, print out the information below and take it with you

• Stay out of icing conditions for which the aircraft has NOT been cleared.
• Note freezing level in the aviation weather forecast. Don’t go unless the aircraft is equipped for the conditions.
• Have warm clothing available for pre-flight and in case of heater failure or forced landing.
• Mud, snow and slush will lengthen take-off and landing runs. Work out your distances.
• Remove all frost, ice and snow from the aircraft – there is no such thing as a little ice.
• Check carefully that all essential electrical services, especially pitot heat, are working properly.
• Check that the heater/demister are effective. Watch out for any signs of carbon monoxide poisoning.
• Be extra vigilant for carb ice.
• If ice does start to form, act promptly, get out of the conditions by descending (beware of high ground), climbing or diverting.
• If you encounter ice, tell ATC so that others can be warned.
• During the approach if you suspect tailplane ice, or suffer a severe pitch down, RETRACT THE FLAPS.
• If you have to land with an iced up aeroplane, add at least 20% to the approach speed.
• Snow-covered, icy or muddy runways will make the landing run much longer and crosswinds harder to handle.
• THERE IS NO SUCH THING AS A LITTLE ICE

Happy flying....