AIM Text
- The 10 most frequent causal factors for general aviation accidents that involve the pilot‐in‐command are:
- Inadequate preflight preparation and/or planning.
- Failure to obtain and/or maintain flying speed.
- Failure to maintain direction control.
- Improper level off.
- Failure to see and avoid objects or obstructions.
- Mismanagement of fuel.
- Improper inflight decisions or planning.
- Misjudgment of distance and speed.
- Selection of unsuitable terrain.
- Improper operation of flight controls.
- This list remains relatively stable and points out the need for continued refresher training to establish a higher level of flight proficiency for all pilots. A part of the FAA's continuing effort to promote increased aviation safety is the Aviation Safety Program. For information on Aviation Safety Program activities contact your nearest Flight Standards District Office.
- Alertness. Be alert at all times, especially when the weather is good. Most pilots pay attention to business when they are operating in full IFR weather conditions, but strangely, air collisions almost invariably have occurred under ideal weather conditions. Unlimited visibility appears to encourage a sense of security which is not at all justified. Considerable information of value may be obtained by listening to advisories being issued in the terminal area, even though controller workload may prevent a pilot from obtaining individual service.
- Giving Way. If you think another aircraft is too close to you, give way instead of waiting for the other pilot to respect the right‐of‐way to which you may be entitled. It is a lot safer to pursue the right‐of‐way angle after you have completed your flight.
Source: FAA Aeronautical Information Manual · current edition · paragraph 7-6-1.
Research Notes
AIM 7-6-1 introduces Cold Weather Operations — the additional considerations when operating in cold temperatures and winter conditions.
Cold weather hazards:
- Engine starting difficulties (cold-soaked oil, weak battery)
- Carburetor icing (paradoxically common in cool, humid summer)
- Structural ice accumulation in flight
- Pitot/static system icing
- Snow/slush on runways
- Reduced battery capacity
- Frozen control surfaces
- Cold-weather altimeter error (true altitude lower than indicated)
Preflight in cold weather: Carefully inspect for frost, snow, or ice on wings, tail, and control surfaces. "Clean wing" is the rule — even thin frost can disturb airflow enough to prevent takeoff or cause stall during climb. Several fatal accidents are attributable to taking off with contaminated wings.
Reference: AC 91-74B (Pilot Guide: Flight in Icing Conditions); AC 135-17 (Pilot Guide for Small Aircraft Cold Weather); AIM 7-6-1.