PASSENGERS NEW TO LIGHT AIRCRAFT

PASSENGER CARE (from CAA Safety Sense leaflet 2)

Those more used to holiday jets may find a light aircraft a very different experience. No one wants an early return with a sick or frightened passenger, so chat to them beforehand about:

a) The higher noise level - headsets, ear defenders or cotton wool in the ears may help.

b) Turbulence - a light aircraft will be more affected. Don’t fight it, relax and go with the motion.

c) Pressure changes and the ears - most light aircraft are un-pressurised and climb quite slowly so the ears automatically compensate. Plan to descend at about 300 ft. per minute. However, during fast descents, holding the nose and attempting to blow with the mouth closed will equalise the pressure. Alternatively, hand out a few chewy sweets.

d) Stall and other warnings - Mention horns and bells, the sudden unexpected noise on landing may startle nervous passengers.

e) Lookout - discuss the usefulness of extra pairs of eyes throughout the flight, particularly when joining the circuit. Agree on how passengers should attract your attention. Explain the blind spots. Tell them that high flying traffic can be ignored.

f) Motion Sickness - What to do if feeling unwell, but don’t mention the word ‘sick’. (Make sure there are sick bags handy.)

g) Toilets - The lack of a toilet.

h) Children - Special care is needed so that they:

• do not touch the controls, door release etc.

• keep their legs clear of the controls when sitting on a booster cushion

• keep quiet when the pilot is talking on the radio or is very busy

• tell the pilot if they see another aircraft (keeping their eyes outside helps prevent air sickness)

It helps if you can :

• keep talking to them during the flight, pointing out landmarks etc.

• avoid turbulent or windy days so that they remember their flight with PLEASURE.

PRE-FLIGHT PASSENGER SAFETY BRIEFING CHECKLIST

Have you told your passengers how to use:

•       seats/locking mechanism

•       seat belts/harnesses

•       door/emergency exit release

•       front seat-back release

•       fire extinguisher

•       life-jackets/life-raft if carried

•       where to find the first aid kit

•       what to do in a forced landing or a ditching 

FLY SAFE!