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The “Test” Flight. Civil Air Patrol. www.squadron188.org. The first flight after maintenance __________________________. The Risk.
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The “Test” Flight Civil Air Patrol www.squadron188.org The first flight after maintenance __________________________
The Risk • “Arguably, among the most challenging and potentially hazardous missions a pilot undertakes are post-maintenance test flights”, Richard N. Aarons | Business & Commercial Aviation
Regulations • What’s the rule? • § 91.407 Operation after maintenance, preventive maintenance, rebuilding, or alteration. • (a) No person may operate any aircraft that has undergone maintenance, preventive maintenance, rebuilding, or alteration unless - • (1) It has been approved for return to service by a person authorized under § 43.7 of this chapter; and • (2) The maintenance record entry required by § 43.9 or § 43.11, as applicable, of this chapter has been made. . . .
Know what work was done • Annual/100hr inspection • Cowling removed • All panels and inspection plates removed • All seats removed • Oil changed • Spark plugs removed and cleaned • Timing checked and adjusted • Wheel bearings repacked • Prop spinner removed • Check discrepancies in WMIRS
Check the paperwork • Logbook Entries (14 CFR 43.9, or 43.11) • Ensure all work performed is logged in the appropriate logbook (airframe, engine, propeller, avionics). • Weight & Balance • If any equipment was removed or installed, ensure an updated weight & balance is provided. • Form 337 (14 CFR Appendix B to Part 43) • If any minor or major repairs or modifications were made ensure a from 337 was provided and submitted to the FAA
The Preflight Inspection • Follow the checklist! • Pay extra close attention to areas that were worked on. • Ensure seats and seat belts are properly installed. • All inspection covers installed and secure. • Cowling and other removable panels secure. • Flight controls free and CORRECT!
The “Test” flight • Preform a comprehensive run-up. • Never at night or in IFR conditions. • Stay close to the airport if possible. • Avoid mountainous terrain and large bodies of water. • Depart from longest runway.
Post flight inspection • After the “Test” flight perform a post flight inspection • Loose parts • Oil leaks, etc…
Real world occurrences • Aileron cables rigged in reverse. • Rudder control cable hooked under bracket. • Defrost hose disconnected. • Incorrect timing. • Wrench left in engine compartment. • Pitot heat wiring mixed up with stall warning.
References • https://www.planeandpilotmag.com/article/the-post-maintenance-check-flight • AC 20-106 • 14 CFR Part 43 • 14 CFR Part 91 • http://aviationweek.com/business-aviation/two-chances-lost-pilot-and-mechanic-both-miss-aileron-hook-error
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