Pilot in Command Responsibilities and Flight Operations

Responsibilities of a Pilot in Command

Before Flight Requirements

Appropriate Passenger Safety Briefing

The pilot in command (PIC) must ensure that all passengers receive a comprehensive safety briefing before flight. The briefing should include information on emergency exits, seat belt use, operation of oxygen masks and life jackets, smoking prohibitions, and the use of portable electronic devices. Safety briefings must be delivered post-boarding and before take-off, ensuring all passengers clearly understand the instructions Passenger Safety Briefings | CASA.

Starting and Ground Operation of Engines

The PIC is responsible for following strict protocols during engine start and ground operations. This includes pre-start checks, ensuring personnel safety, and monitoring during the starting process. Training requirements and emergency procedures must be adhered to according to CASA guidelines Engine Ground Run Training and Assessment | CASA.

Fuels and Oils

Aviation fuels, classified as flammable liquids, must be handled in compliance with work health and safety laws. Safe storage, handling, and use are vital, with fuel systems inspected before the first flight each day, and after each refueling, to ensure fuel quality and absence of contaminants Aviation Refuellers | WorkSafe.qld.gov.

Fuelling of Aircraft

Only trained personnel should handle aircraft fuelling. Proper grounding methods, contamination checks, and adherence to safety procedures are mandated to ensure safety. Fuel quality control and regular equipment maintenance are critical elements Aircraft Fuelling Safety | CASA.

During Flight Requirements

Authority and Responsibilities of the Pilot in Command

The PIC has ultimate authority and responsibility for aviation safety and legal compliance. Their duties include issuing safety directives, reporting hazards or emergencies, prohibiting the boarding of impaired individuals, and ensuring all operations align with CASA regulations Authority of Pilot in Command | CASA.

Dropping of Things from an Aircraft in Flight

Part 138 and Part 137 of the CASR outline the regulations for dropping objects from aircraft. All operations must comply with these specific rules, ensuring adherence to safety and legal requirements for any aerial work operations Aerial Work Operations | CASA.

Legislative Requirements During Phases of Flight

Before Flight

Security of Doors, Hatches

Ensuring all doors and hatches are securely latched and sealed is a primary responsibility of the PIC before any flight. Visual verification and functionality checks of locking mechanisms are necessary to prevent accidental openings during the flight Aircraft Maintenance: A Guide to Safety | Aviation Author.

Security of Safety Harness Prior to Solo Flights

Safety harnesses must be checked for functionality and security before solo flights in dual control aircraft. Instructors must verify condition and proper attachment to prevent disengagement Safety Harnesses | CASA.

Carriage of Passengers in a Control Seat

Control seats should be occupied by authorized individuals only, including appropriately licensed pilots or operator employees, to maintain safety Occupancy of a Dual Control Plane | Bob Tait’s Aviation Theory School.

Fuel System Inspection

Fuel system inspections are required before the first flight of the day and after each fueling. Checks include assessing for contamination like water presence and ensuring fuel quality Fuel System Inspection Guidelines | Bob Tait’s Aviation Theory School.

Instrument Checks

The PIC must ensure that all flight instruments are functioning correctly before takeoff. This includes verifying operational competence through an instrument proficiency check every 12 months Instrument Proficiency Check | CASA.

Removal of Frost and Ice

While specific guidelines for frost and ice removal were not identified in CASA documentation, ensuring the aircraft’s aerodynamic surfaces are free of such contaminants before flight is critical.

Carriage of Infants and Children

CASA regulations specify the required restraints and seating arrangements for infants and children during flights, focusing on safety equipment like life jackets and infant flotation devices Infants and small children | CASA.

Testing of Flight Controls

Flight controls that undergo pre-takeoff testing will ensure proper operational function. This is critical for flight safety, despite the absence of specific CASA documentation.

Tank Caps

No specific current regulations were found regarding tank caps. Historical directives suggested chain attachments, but these were revoked, suggesting a need for updated exploration.

Removal of Locking Devices

Before flight, all locking devices must be removed to ensure free movement of controls, certified and logged as per operational standards Maintenance Guide for Pilots.

During Flight

Adjustment of Seats

Proper seat adjustments must ensure full control accessibility and minimize strain on pilots. It is essential for safety and operational control throughout the flight Adjusting the Pilot’s Seat | CASA.

Manipulation of Aircraft Controls

Only authorized persons under Part 61 of the CASR are permitted to manipulate aircraft controls. The PIC must ensure that unauthorized individuals do not interfere with controls during flight Passenger manipulation of control | Recreational Flying.

Wearing of Seatbelts

Regulations stipulate that all passengers and crew must wear seatbelts during taxiing, takeoff, and landing to prevent injuries during turbulence or sudden movements Seatbelt and Safety Harness | CASA.

Occupation of Seats

Occupation of control seats must comply with CAR 226 and CAO 20.16.3 regulations, ensuring authorized individuals only occupy these seats to maintain flight safety Making sure your flight is legal | CASA.

This section comprehensively covers the responsibilities and legal requirements that a pilot in command must adhere to based on CASA regulations, ensuring safety throughout the various phases of flight.