Canada’s pilot fatigue rules are changing… maybe

The following is my own opinion and may not represent the opinion of my employer.

On February 12, 2009, at around 10:20 PM a Dash 8 Q400 operated by the regional airline Colgan Air for Continental Airlines crashed near Clarance Center, New York killing all 49 passengers and crew, plus one person on the ground. The investigation that followed identified many causes, but there was one area that made a big impact on US aviation laws – fatigue. Continue reading Canada’s pilot fatigue rules are changing… maybe

Expecting the unexpected on a stable approach

Stable approach is an important topic in the industry. Unstable approaches are statistically associated as a factor in approach and landing accidents. Pilots are being taught to plan and fly stable approaches. Different companies have different procedures, but by establishing a plan of action and keeping the aircraft within an acceptable performance window will help maintain a stable approach and safe landing. Continue reading Expecting the unexpected on a stable approach

Pilot Incapacitation

 

The Australian Safety Bureau has published an interesting report on Pilot Incapacitation from data collected between 2010 and 2014. The data included incidents reported in Australia and on Australian registered aircraft.

Pilot incapacitation is when a pilot is unable to continue their duties due to a medical related issue or a change in the working environment. This can range from full incapacitation, being unable to perform any duties, to partial incapacitation where a pilot is able to perform limited duties. Continue reading Pilot Incapacitation

Tell your MP why fatigue rules are important

We are just under a week away from the new Canadian Liberal government announcing Justin Trudeau’s cabinet. When the cabinet is announced, it will be important to remind the new Minster of Transport, and your local MP, about how significant revisions to the current pilot fatigue rules are. Continue reading Tell your MP why fatigue rules are important