ALL LANDINGS PERFORMED BY A STUDENT OR RENTER WITHOUT A PPFT INSTRUCTOR PRESENT MUST BE DONE TO A FULL STOP. NO TOUCH AND GOES!
SOLO NIGHT TIME OPERATIONS WILL NOT BE CONDUCTED BY PRIMARY STUDENTS
CEILING/VISIBILITY MINIMUMS AND MAXIMUM WINDS FOR DISPATCHING AIRCRAFT
Solo students may have additional maximum wind limitations imposed by assigned wind limitation numbers. Refer to LIMITING WIND CONDITIONS section which follows.
DUAL VFR LOCAL FLIGHTS shall be dispatched to the practice area only under the following conditions: (1) The weather at the departure airport, enroute, and in the practice area is at least equal to or better than the following criteria and forecast to remain so for the duration of the contemplated flight plus 1 hour.
(a) Primary Students Ceiling 1,500 feet - Visibility 4 miles
(b) Advanced Students Ceiling 1,400 feet - Visibility 3 miles
(c) Surface Wind All Aircraft - 25 kts
(d) Crosswind All Aircraft - Not to exceed crosswind component for aircraft being flown
SOLO VFR LOCAL FLIGHTS shall be dispatched to the practice area only under the following conditions: (1) The weather at the departure airport, enroute, and in the practice area is at least equal to or better than the following criteria and forecast to remain so for the duration of the contemplated flight plus 2 hours.
(a) Primary Students Ceiling 2,000 feet - Visibility 5 miles
(b) Advanced Students Ceiling 1,500 feet - Visibility 4 miles
(c) Surface Wind All Aircraft - 20 kts
(d) Crosswind All Aircraft - 10 kts
DUAL VFR CROSS-COUNTRY FLIGHTS shall be dispatched only under the following conditions: (1) The weather at the departure airport, enroute, and all airports of intended use are forecast to be at least equal to or better than the following criteria and forecast to remain so for the duration of the contemplated flight plus 2 hours.
(a) Primary Students Ceiling 3,500 feet - Visibility 5 miles
(b) Advanced Students Ceiling 3,000 feet - Visibility 4 miles
(c) Surface Wind All Aircraft - 25 kts
(d) Crosswind All Aircraft - Not to exceed crosswind component for aircraft being flown
SOLO VFR CROSS-COUNTRY FLIGHTS shall be dispatched only under the following conditions: (1) The weather at the departure airport, enroute, and at all airports of intended use are forecast to be at least equal to or better than the following criteria and forecast to remain so for the duration of the contemplated flight plus 3 hours for flights estimated over 3 hours or plus 2 hours for flights under 3 hours.
(a) Primary Students Ceiling 4,000 feet - Visibility P6SM
(b) Advanced Students Ceiling 3,000 feet - Visibility P6SM
(c) Surface Wind All Aircraft - 20 kts
(d) Crosswind All Aircraft - 10 kts
SOLO VFR LOCAL TRAFFIC PATTERN FLIGHTS shall be dispatched only under the following conditions: (1) The weather at the airport of operation is at least equal to or better than the following criteria and forecast to remain so for the duration of the contemplated flight plus 1 hour.
(a) Primary Students Ceiling 1,500 feet - Visibility 5 miles
(b) Advanced Students Ceiling 1,400 feet - Visibility 4 miles
(c) Surface Wind All Aircraft - 15 kts
(d) Crosswind All Aircraft - 10 kts
RENTER FLIGHTS shall be dispatched only under the following conditions: (1) The weather at the airport of operation is at least equal to or better than the following criteria and forecast to remain so for the duration of the contemplated flight plus 1 hour.
(a) Ceiling Limited by the level of certification of the renter and equipment aboard aircraft THOUGH CEILING ON DEPARTURE MUST BE AT LEAST AS HIGH AS THE LOWEST APPROACH MINIMUMS AVAILABLE FOR RETURN TO DEPARTURE AIRPORT.
(c) Surface Wind All Aircraft - 25 kts
(d) Crosswind All Aircraft - Not to exceed crosswind component for aircraft being flown
DUAL IFR FLIGHTS shall be dispatched into instrument meteorological conditions only under the following circumstances:
(1) The flight instructor has been authorized by the Chief Flight Instructor to instruct in instrument conditions in the type of aircraft involved.
(2) All the required flight instruments, communications and navigation equipment, including transponder, onboard are known to be functional.
(3) The weather at time of takeoff and the forecast for the duration of the contemplated flight plus 2 hours are such that return to the base of operations or an approved airport can be anticipated using the available visual or instrument approach procedures.
(4) A suitable alternate airport that meets the requirements of FAR part 91.169 is available and filed with ATC.
(5) There are no known or forecast hazardous conditions such as icing, thunderstorms, high winds or other hazards to flight in the area of the contemplated flight.
FLIGHTS SHALL NOT BE DISPATCHED REGARDLESS OF CEILING, VISIBILITY AND WIND CONDITIONS, IF KNOWN OR FORECAST HAZARDOUS WEATHER CONDITIONS SUCH AS ICING, THUNDERSTORMS, HIGH WIND, ETC. EXIST WITHIN THE AREA OF OPERATIONS THAT MAY ENDANGER THE FLIGHT
LIMITING WIND CONDITIONS
(1) All students in all courses, before being authorized for solo in any aircraft, shall be assigned a maximum surface wind limitation and a maximum crosswind component limitation for that make and model aircraft. The maximum surface wind, the maximum crosswind component, and the aircraft make and model shall be recorded in the student's training record and pilot logbook.
(2) A crosswind computer shall be used to determine the crosswind component for takeoffs and landings. A sample crosswind computer is included in this manual. (Appendix A)
CHECKLISTS
(1) Each aircraft is provided with a checklist that covers all phases of ground and flight operations, day or night, VFR and IFR, and all commonly anticipated emergencies. Both instructor pilots and students shall be familiar with the checklists for the aircraft they are flying and adhere to them.
(2) Students flying their own aircraft in a flight course shall furnish a checklist suitable to the aircraft, and acceptable to the school
PROPELLER DANGER AREAS
(1) Any area within 6 feet of a propeller arc should be considered a hazardous area whether the engine is running or static. Inspection of the propeller, propeller hub, nose section, etc., should be made visually. The propeller should be handled at all times as though the engine were going to start. It could! Walking through or putting any part of the body into the propeller arc is extremely hazardous and shall be avoided. Hand turning of the propeller is prohibited.
STARTING OF AIRCRAFT
(1) The starting of all aircraft shall be in accordance with the appropriate checklists and established procedures and the following general precautions:
(a) On the preflight walk around ascertain that the propeller area and the taxi area are clear of all loose objects and debris such as chocks, tow bars, etc. If necessary, reposition the aircraft so that a brake failure on start will not cause the aircraft to roll into an area where collision damage could occur before the engine could be shut down.
(b) Ensure that the parking brake is set or hold the foot brake (if applicable) before engaging the starter. Turn on the anti-collision light to warn nearby personnel the engine is about to be started and VISUALLY clear the propeller danger area. Call CLEAR! to warn nearby personnel.
(c) Engine speed should not be allowed to go above 1,100 RPM on start in order to minimize wear and tear (unless the aircraft flight manual states otherwise). Shutdown the engine if oil pressure has not started upward within 30 seconds or 60 seconds in very cold weather. The maintenance supervisor or his assistant should investigate the cause.
(d) Entering or leaving an aircraft with the engine running is extremely hazardous and shall be avoided. For that reason, on dual flights, the engine will not be started until both the flight instructor and the student are in the aircraft.
(e) Under no circumstances shall any aircraft be started by hand propping. Contact the maintenance supervisor if auxiliary power is needed for starting.
TAXIING
(1) The hangar and ramp areas are confined and often congested and a great deal of caution is required while maneuvering in these areas. The pilot in command is solely responsible for the safety of the aircraft from the time he or she enters it for flight, until it is shutdown and secured. While others may assist a taxiing aircraft in close quarters, the responsibility remains with the pilot in command. If in doubt, STOP!
(2) When taxiing in ramp areas or other confined areas, taxi speed shall be no faster than a normal walk.
(3) When taxiing on taxiways, taxi speed shall be no faster than a brisk walk.
(4) A good rule about taxi speeds is never taxi so fast that you could not stop safely without brakes.
(5) Always use the proper application of the flight controls for existing wind.
(6) Yellow lines may be painted on taxiways and in the ramp areas. While these lines are not infallible, taxiing with the nose wheel on the yellow line will clear the aircraft of all normal obstacles. Departure from the yellow line should be done only to avoid obstacles or to clear other aircraft or vehicles.
(7) Never follow small aircraft at a distance of less than three or four airplane lengths; get that close only while waiting in line for takeoff.
(8) Use extreme caution when taxiing behind large propeller driven aircraft and jets. Breakaway taxi thrust engine exhaust velocities can be as high as 45 MPH within 350 feet behind a large jet. When taxiing behind a large aircraft is unavoidable maintain at least 500 feet separation and exercise extreme caution.
(9) Under no circumstances are aircraft to be taxied into or out of hangars.
AIRCRAFT FIRES
(1) The subject of aircraft engine and electrical and cabin fires is a part of every students checkout in an aircraft. Follow the procedures outlined in checklists and take action as dictated by the situation and good judgment.
(2) In the event of a fire on the ground, attempt to call for assistance on any radio frequency (tower, ground control, unicom, etc.). Do not hesitate to evacuate the aircraft if you determine the fire is uncontrollable. Contact the Dispatcher and Maintenance Supervisor if away from the home base.
(3) In the event of an uncontrollable fire in flight, land as soon as possible. DO NOT attempt to restart an engine that has been shut down unless an extreme emergency dictates otherwise. If circumstances permit, make radio contact with any tower, FSS, unicom, etc. and advise them of your emergency situation. Contact the Dispatcher and Maintenance Supervisor after landing.
(4) No aircraft shall be dispatched or redispatched following a fire unless approved by the Maintenance Supervisor.
(5) Smoking is prohibited in aircraft and in the vicinity of fueling operations.
(6) Aircraft shall be vacated during fueling.
REDISPATCH PROCEDURES
(1) Unprogrammed landings on airports by dual flights, for whatever reason, shall be reported to the school dispatcher. If the landing was for weather, fueling, etc. it shall be the responsibility of the flight instructor to redispatch the flight. If the landing was for mechanical reasons, the flight instructor shall contact the school Maintenance Supervisor for instructions. The chief flight instructor should be notified prior to redispatch.
(2) Unprogrammed landings on airports by solo flights, for whatever reason, shall be reported to the school dispatcher. If the landing was for mechanical reasons, the Maintenance Supervisor shall be contacted for instructions.The flight shall not be redispatched until approved by the Chief Flight Instructor and assigned flight instructor.
(3) Unprogrammed landings off airports, by dual or solo flights, shall be reported to the school dispatcher. Redispatch of the flight shall be the responsibility of the Chief Flight Instructor only after consultation with and approval of the school Maintenance Supervisor.
AIRCRAFT DISCREPANCIES
(1) All aircraft discrepancies, regardless of how minor, are of importance and shall be recorded in the Aircraft Discrepancy Record on Flight Circle.
(2) Aircraft with known discrepancies shall not be dispatched unless approval for return to service is recorded on Flight Circle and verified by the Chief Flight Instructor.
(3) No pilot shall operate an aircraft with known discrepancies that have not been verified and approved by the Chief Flight Instructor. If a discrepancy is noted during preflight inspection, it should be reported immediately.
SECURING OF AIRCRAFT
(1) It is the sole responsibility of the pilot in command to assure that the aircraft is properly secured prior to leaving it, whether at the home base of operations or at another airport. Proper securing shall be accomplished by reference to the aircraft checklist and the following general procedures.
(a) At the home base, the aircraft shall be tied down and left with the brakes off and all doors and windows closed. After the last flight of the day, all covers (airplane, pitot, inlet, etc.) should be installed.
(b) At airports other than home base, the aircraft shall be properly parked, tied down, left with the brakes off, doors and windows closed and locked. In addition, all covers (airplane, pitot, inlet, etc.) should be installed.
(c) During enroute fueling stops on cross country flights, wheel chocks shall be used if tie-down is not available.
(d) If any equipment or instruments necessary for the securing of the aircraft are noticed missing, a PPFT Manager or Chief Flight Instructor should be notified immediately.
FUEL RESERVES
(1) IFR FLIGHTS proceeding on flight plans filed with ATC shall be governed by the provisions of FAR Part 91.167 insofar as fuel and reserve fuel requirements are concerned.
(2) DUAL AND SOLO VFR LOCAL FLIGHTS, day or night, shall be planned and executed so as to arrive at the base of operations with a minimum of 1 hour usable fuel on board, computed at normal cruising altitudes and power settings.
(3) DUAL AND SOLO VFR CROSS COUNTRY FLIGHTS, day or night, shall be planned to arrive at the next point of intended landing with a minimum of 1 hour usable fuel on board, computed at normal cruising altitudes and power settings.
(4) If weight limitations make the 1 hour usable fuel reserve for dual flights in items 2 and 3 impractical, reserve requirements may be reduced to the minimum fuel requirements for VFR flight in accordance with FAR 91.151 which specifies daytime minimum 30 minutes reserve or nighttime 45 minutes reserve.
COLLISION AVOIDANCE
(1) The primary responsibility for collision avoidance rests almost entirely with the pilot. Although several systems have been designed as safety aids, nothing can replace your vigilance. It is extremely important that each pilot in the aircraft exercise constant vigilance for other aircraft, both on the ground and in the air, and to inform the pilot controlling the aircraft of all such traffic that could be a factor affecting safety. Review collision avoidance procedures frequently and strive to develop them into positive habits. The following guidelines are included to assist you.
(a) Check both the approach and departure paths prior to takeoff or landing.
(b) Check both directions before taxiing across a taxiway or runway.
(c) Never taxi so fast that you could not stop without brakes.
(d) Be particularly vigilant when flying in the vicinity of navigation aids and uncontrolled airports.
(e) Fly Proper traffic patterns and be alert for the pilot who isn't.
(f) Make use of radar advisory services when available, but always keep in mind that radar does not necessarily see all aircraft.
(g) Learn and use proper scanning techniques for day and night operations.
(h) Use Common Traffic Advisory Frequency (CTAF) at non-towered airports.
(i) Operate the anti-collision light whenever the engine is running.
(j) Abide by the right-of-way rules, however, when in doubt as to the actions of the other aircraft, do not hesitate to give way.
(k) When cruising VFR, use the hemispherical rule for cruising altitudes.
(l) Use the "Spot Method" for determining the collision potential of another aircraft within your field of vision.
(m) Execute periodical "S" turns during prolonged climbs and descents in order to clear the air space in front of you. Avoid steep climbs by using cruise climb as soon as you reach a safe altitude.
(n) Know the blind spots of your aircraft, and periodically maneuver to see into the blind spots.
(o) Make clearing turns prior to entering each flight maneuver involving abnormal flight attitudes.
PRACTICE AREAS
(1) VFR practice areas have been designated by the school. A sample chart is included (Appendix B).
(2) All solo practice shall be conducted within the designated practice area(s).
(3) There are no designated routings to the practice area(s). Solo students are expected to proceed directly to and from the practice area/airport at a minimum altitude of 2,100 feet MSL.
SIMULATED EMERGENCY LANDINGS AND MINIMUM ALTITUDE LIMITATIONS
(1) All simulated emergencies practice shall be conducted on dual flights. STUDENTS ON SOLO FLIGHTS SHALL NOT PRACTICE SIMULATED EMERGENCIES.
(2) Emergency landing practice shall not be conducted over congested areas, on an airway or within a 5 NM radius of an airport.
(3) In uncongested areas, a practice emergency landing shall not descend to such an altitude that the aircraft is closer than 500 feet to any person, vehicle, vessel, or structure.
(4) No practice emergency landings shall be carried to a height of less than 200 feet above the surface.
(5) None of the foregoing is meant to preclude the practice of emergency procedures at an airport where, in the judgment of the flight instructor, the procedure can be carried to a safe landing without disruption of other airport traffic.
(6) Stalls shall not be practiced over any congested area or within a 5 NM radius of an airport.
(7) Stalls shall be practiced at an altitude that permits stall recovery at least 1,500 feet above the ground.
PHOTOGRAPHY, VIDEOGRAPHY, MUSIC, AND COCKPIT DISTRACTIONS
(1) PHOTOGRAPHY AND VIDEOGRAPHY taken in or of any asset or property under management of Perfect Pitch Flight Training, LLC is prohibited under the following conditions:
(a) Any photography or videography being used in a for-profit manner or for monetization without explicit permission from a PPFT manager.
(b) During critical phases of flight (takeoff, landing, approach) or any time increased pilot workload is required.
(2) MUSIC must not be listened to in any headset during critical phases of flight or any time increased pilot workload is required. Additionally, listening to music in headsets must not interfere with attention to radio calls or communication between pilots.
(3) UNNECESSARY COCKPIT DISTRACTIONS should be avoided at all times. Please use appropriate judgement to focus on FLYING THE AIRPLANE.