|
From NAFI's Chair
Simple Things Matter — Part Four
The 800-hour pilot was well prepared for their flight review. After an enjoyable ground session, we departed for in-air activities. Upon reaching cruise altitude, the pilot reduced power, completed the cruise checklist and tightened the throttle friction lock. During a subsequent power reduction, it was clear from the effort required that the friction was significant. The pilot explained that they liked the friction at that level to prevent the throttle from inadvertently slipping.
Throttle slippage can occur, and I’ve been in aircraft where it happened at low altitude during the initial climb. It’s one important reason we teach pilots in primary training to keep their hand on the throttle after takeoff. Ironically, slippage may actually result from a pilot doing exactly what they believe prevents it, as overtightening can over time cause throttle creep. Cranking the friction tight and then moving the throttle can strip the threads, eventually resulting in throttle slippage.
When throttle friction is set too high, throttle control becomes stiff and binding. High friction can make the throttle stick while the pilot attempts precise adjustments, then jump when more pressure is applied. Friction that is too high also accelerates cable wear and increases the risk of a frayed cable binding or failing in flight.
Similar to throttle friction being set too high or too low, an improperly trimmed aircraft increases workload. Although not specifically tested on pilot exams, aircraft trimming is a vital workload management skill that sometimes receives little attention. The result can be a pilot who struggles with altitude control or requires additional time to develop precision early in instrument training.
Learning to use sight pictures during flight is another skill that may be lightly touched on in training but foundational to pitch and bank control. I recently flew with a 200-hour pilot who impressed me with their attention outside the cockpit and their precision in maintaining heading and altitude. Adjustments were continuous and almost imperceptible. They had been taught by an instructor who emphasized using sight pictures in flight until the practice became second nature. The initial effort to ingrain that skill set will reap benefits for the pilot throughout the remainder of their flying days.
Karen Kalishek
NAFI Board Chair
| 
