Hello, my name is Ben Lovegrove and in this video I'm going to read a section of the CAA's
Safety Sense Leaflet Number 3 - Winter Flying.
The content has been reproduced here in video format with the permission of the CAA.
To download a copy of this (or any other in the series) to print off or store on your
device please visit www.caa.co.uk/safetysense
INTRODUCTION. The
purpose of this video is to advise pilots/operators of aeroplanes, helicopters and microlights
of some of the problems they may encounter while flying in winter.
AIRCRAFT PREPARATION.
a) During the pleasant days of summer, items of equipment may have 'disappeared'. Make
sure the aircraft has serviceable pitot head covers, static vent plugs, control surface
locks and, if parked outside, proper tie-downs. Having made sure you have got them – use
them.
b) Some engines may need the aircraft manufacturer's approved winter cooling restrictor to allow
the oil and cylinders to reach and maintain correct operating temperatures. After fitting,
keep an eye on the oil temperature/cylinder head temperature, especially if the weather
turns warmer.
c) The grade of engine oil may need to be changed when operating in colder conditions.
Consult the Manufacturer’s Manual or Maintenance Organisation.
d) Check that the cabin heater/demister is working properly before you really need to
use it. A faulty cabin heater, either combustion or exhaust, can allow exhaust gases, including
carbon monoxide, into the cabin. If in doubt, have the heater pressure-tested. Carbon monoxide
is colourless, odourless, tasteless, insidious in its effects and lethal. One of the first
symptoms may be a severe headache, drowsiness or dizziness.
e) ‘Spot’ type carbon monoxide detectors only have a limited life when unwrapped. Use
a ‘fresh’ one and read the instructions. f) The pitot-static system should be checked
for water which can freeze and block the system. If static drains are fitted, know where they
are and how to use them.
g) The battery is worked harder in winter, so make sure it is in good condition and well
charged. If you’ve had to make prolonged attempts to start the engine, when it does
start allow plenty of time for the battery to re-charge before using heavy electrical
loads. In a single-engined aircraft it's all you are left with if the electrical charging
system fails in flight.
h) Some aircraft require the addition of Iso-propyl alcohol in the fuel for operation in low ambient
temperatures. (See Flight Manual.)
i) Check that all the airframe, propeller and windscreen systems are operating correctly.
De-icing systems suffer from neglect and may prove faulty when required. Leaks may have
developed in inflatable boots especially on the tailplane (due to stones thrown up by
the landing gear/propellers), so check that they ALL inflate properly.
j) Make sure engine crankcase oil breather pipes are clear and free from deposits which
can freeze, causing a pressure build-up that could force engine oil seals out of their
housings. k) Control cable tensions may need to be adjusted.
That's the end of the this section of the CAA's Safety Sense Leaflet Number 3 - Winter
Flying. If you have any additional tips or experiences you would like to pass on then
please post a comment below.
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