One of the most important concepts that safe pilots understand is the difference between what is “legal” in terms of the regulations, and what is “smart” or “safe” in terms of pilot experience and proficiency.$_{ }$ 

## P = Pilot in Command (PIC) 

The pilot is one of the risk factors in a flight. When considering that risk, a pilot may ask, “Am I ready for this trip?” in terms of experience, currency, and physical and emotional condition. The IMSAFE checklist (described later in this chapter) combined with proficiency, recency, and currency helps provide the answer. 

## A = Aircraft 

What limitations will the aircraft impose upon the trip? Ask the following questions: 

⦁ $_{Is this the right aircraft for the flight? }$ 

⦁ $_{Am I familiar with and current in this aircraft? Aircraft performance figures and the AFM are based on a }$ brand-new aircraft flown by a professional test pilot. Keep that in mind while assessing personal and aircraft performance. 

⦁ $_{Is this aircraft equipped for the flight? Instruments? Lights? Navigation and communication equipment }$ adequate? 

⦁ $_{Can this aircraft use the runways available for the trip with an adequate margin of safety under the }$ conditions to be flown? 

⦁ $_{Can this aircraft carry the planned load? }$ 

⦁ $_{Can this aircraft operate at the altitudes needed for the trip? }$ 

⦁ $_{Does this aircraft have sufficient fuel capacity, with reserves, for trip legs planned? }$ 

⦁ $_{Does the fuel quantity delivered match the fuel quantity ordered? }$ 

## V = EnVironment 

Weather is a major environmental consideration. Earlier it was suggested pilots set their own personal minimums, especially when it comes to weather. As pilots evaluate the weather for a particular flight, they should consider the following: 

⦁ $_{What are the current ceiling and visibility? In mountainous terrain, consider having higher minimums for }$ ceiling and visibility, particularly if the terrain is unfamiliar. 

⦁ $_{Consider the possibility that the weather may be different than forecast. Have alternative plans and be ready }$ and willing to divert should an unexpected change occur. 

⦁ $_{Consider the winds at the airports being used and the strength of the crosswind component. }$ 

⦁ $_{If flying in mountainous terrain, consider whether there are strong winds aloft. Strong winds in }$ mountainous terrain can cause severe turbulence and downdrafts and can be very hazardous for aircraft even when there is no other significant weather. 

⦁ $_{Are there any thunderstorms present or forecast? }$ 

⦁ $_{If there are clouds, is there any icing, current or forecast? What is the temperature-dew point spread and }$ the current temperature at altitude? Can descent be made safely all along the route? 

⦁ $_{If icing conditions are encountered, is the pilot experienced at operating the aircraft’s deicing or anti-icing }$ equipment? Is this equipment in good condition and functional? For what icing conditions is the aircraft rated, if any? 

