What Pilots Know: The Secrets of Flying Aircraft

As much as the act of piloting an aircraft appears to be a simple task to the untrained eye, pilots possess a vast range of specialized knowledge that only they can truly understand. This article delves into the intricacies of what pilots know and why their expertise is invaluable to both themselves and their passengers.

Understanding the Basics of Flight

Even the fundamental knowledge of flight goes beyond what most people realize. For example, many believe that a stall occurs due to engine failure, which is a common misconception. A stall happens when the wing stops producing lift, and this has nothing to do with the engine's performance. Pilots are well-versed in the FAA rules and regulations as well as the physics of flight, ensuring that their knowledge is both compliant and comprehensive.

Specific Knowledge for Aircraft Ratings

While the basic principles of flight remain consistent across different aircraft types, pilots also know specific details unique to their particular rating. These details can range from unique control locations to specialized instruments and systems. Here are a few examples:

Speeds and Controls

Never Exceed Speed: Every aircraft has a specific speed beyond which it cannot safely operate. Pilots are trained to recognize and respect this limit to avoid structural damage or loss of control. Trim Tabs, Wheels, Switches, and Buttons: Different aircraft have unique control surfaces and switches. Pilots know where to find and how to use these controls efficiently.

Instruments and Systems

Specialized Instruments: Each aircraft has different instruments designed for its specific needs, such as weather and collision warning systems. Computers and Avionics: Modern aircraft rely on sophisticated computer systems for navigation, communication, and safety. Pilots are proficient in operating these systems.

The Check Flight for Ratings

Pilots must pass a thorough check flight with an experienced instructor before gaining a rating for a specific type of aircraft. This process acquaints them with the aircraft's unique handling characteristics. For instance, how much control input is needed to execute a flare during landing, banking, yawing, or sideslipping varies significantly among aircraft types. By thoroughly understanding these nuances, pilots can safely operate their aircraft under various conditions.

More Than Just Flying

Being a pilot is more than just flying an aircraft. Pilots are responsible for ensuring the safety and comfort of their passengers. They learn to manage weather conditions, mechanical issues, and unexpected delays by relying on their extensive knowledge and experience. In the following quote, a pilot emphasizes the importance of maintaining proper technique:

“The only detail about flying is that there’s no such intricate details. Flying is easy peasy all you’ve got to do is maintain attitude. Everything else is intuitive the only damn thing you should do is maintain attitude. If you do it you can do everything you want. Landing flare perhaps is an exception however if you maintained attitude you maintained speed and you maintained glide slope and you are the lord of the energy so you can easily kill the energy at landing. That’s all”

Pilots are often taught a prayer before every flight:

“Oh My Lord! I wish my landings were half the soft than I think.”

Despite the apparent complexity, maintaining the proper attitude is the key to successful flying. This attitude not only ensures safety but also enhances the overall experience for the pilot and the passengers.

Conclusion

Pilots possess a wealth of knowledge beyond what many people imagine. Their expertise in areas such as specific aircraft ratings, unique handling characteristics, and maintaining the right attitude are critical to their role as protectors of lives and property during flight. Understanding the world of pilots and their knowledge can help us value their profession even more. As the saying goes, 'Look mum no hands!'

For those interested in learning more about the intricacies of flying, watching documentaries like "One Six Right" can provide valuable insights. These stories offer a glimpse into the complex, yet exhilarating, world of aviation.