Pre-flight inspection: The basis of safe flight

Why is pre-flight inspection so important?

Even a minor technical fault can lead to serious problems during flight. Pre-flight inspection allows the pilot to:

• identify potential mechanical failures,
• check the fuel and oil levels,
• verify that all moving parts are functioning correctly,
• ensure that nothing is hindering safe takeoff and landing.

Basic steps of pre-flight inspection

Although the order may vary slightly depending on the type of aircraft, the general procedure is similar:

1. Documentation Check

• Validity of aircraft documents.
• Recorded aircraft deficiencies in the logbook.
• Status of mandatory inspections (50h, 100h, annual inspection...).

2. Visual aircraft walk-around

• Check the fuselage, wings, and rudder for cracks, damage, or loose covers.
• Inspect the pitot tube, drainage and vent holes (ensure they are not blocked).
• Check the tires and landing gear – tire wear, fluid leaks, shock absorbers condition.

3. Fuel and oil

• Verification of fuel quantity in tanks (visual + indicators).
• Drainage of condensate from the fuel system (using a test tube) – to check for water or contaminants.
• Check the quantity and color of engine oil.

4. Moving parts

• Test the movement of the elevator, rudder, ailerons – ensuring they move freely, without sticking.
• Inspect joints, pins, and rods – no excessive play.

5. Cockpit

• Check instruments, switches, and controls.
• Functioning of radio communication and intercom.
• Test throttle, mixture, flaps controls.

6. Before starting the engine

• Remove all covers (pitot tube, engine, propeller).
• Secure luggage and equipment in the cabin.
• Ensure that there are no people or objects near the propeller.