Airmanship(airport layout plan)

Introduction

There are two quite separate aspects of flying ; one is the use of the controls to fly the aircraft, and the other is rather like road sense when cycling. Quite apart form pushing the pedals and steering, it is doing the right thing at the right time -- both for one's own safety and that of everyone else.

The pilot of an aircraft needs something very close to a 'road-sense' of the air to help him fly safely, and this ability or sense, coupled with experience and training, is called Airmanship. There are many things in Airmanship that a pilot must think about if he is to fly safely in the crowded skies.

Taxying

Although taxiways are not as crowded as roads, pilots must keep a very good look-out for obstructions such as other aircraft, workmen and station vehicles.

The aircraft brakes should be tested as soon as possible after starting to taxy, whilst the speed is low. During taxying, the brake pressure (shown on a gauge in the cockpit) should be checked frequently, and if it falls significantly the aircraft should be stopped before the brakes lose their effectiveness. In general, the amount of power used should be low (as brakes quickly overheat) and the speed should be kept low to limit the stresses on the undercarriage, especially when turning.

In tail-wheel aircraft where the centre of gravity (C of G) is behind the main wheels, there is a tendency for a turn, once started, to tighten up. In nose wheel aircraft where the C of G is ahead of the main wheels a natural directional stability results and the turning force has to be maintained to sustain the turn.

In large aircraft it is normal to post crew members in suitable positions, or to use the ground crew as additional look-outs when turning in confined spaces. |f the forward view is restricted by the nose of the aircraft (as in the Chipmunk) the pilot has to taxy slowly, and yaw the aircraft from side to side to ensure the way ahead is clear.

The runway used for taking-off and landing is normally the one into wind. Unless on an operational 'scramble' the pilot stops the aircraft at the holding position. The holding position is a white line across the taxiway, from which the pilot has a good view of the runway, and the finals approach. Light aircraft normally turn about 45 degree into wind, whilst large aircraft are stopped heading along the taxiway.

at the holding position the pilot completes his 'vital actions' before take-off. They are called 'vital' because they are checks which are essential to the safety of the aircraft. Checks in large transport aircraft are normally done from a printed lists, whilst a fighter pilot completes them from memory. wing to the high fuel consumption and small fuel load of jet fighter aircraft, vital actions are carried out whilst taxying to the holding position. Also at the holding position is the runway controller's caravan. One of the runway controller's functions is to scrutinize aircraft about to take-off and check for loose panels, fuel or hydraulic leaks etc.

下一頁