Private Pilot (Airplane) Systems & Equipment Malfunctions Lesson Plan

Schedule:

Attention Getter:

• Research a mishap case study:
  • Emergency Descent Case Studies
• Discuss how the initial conditions developed into an incident/accident/mishap
• Relate similar personal experiences of the same type of incident/accident/mishap
• Consider incorporating a case study as a guided scenario

Motivator:

• PIC is directly responsible for and is the final authority as to the operation of that aircraft
• Pilots must be prepared to act in the event of an abnormal condition (abnormalities not time threatening) or an emergency (immediate action required)
• In an emergency requiring immediate action, the pilot-in-command and remote pilot-in-command may deviate from FAR 91 or FAR 107 respectively, to the extend required to meet the emergency
  • If the PIC choses to deviate from the provisions of an ATC clearance, the PIC must notify ATC as soon as possible and obtain an amended clearance
    • Note this is not a blanket clearance to perform unnecessary deviations!
  • Unless deviation is necessary under the emergency authority of 91.3, pilots of IFR flights experiencing two-way radio communication failure are expected to adhere to the procedures prescribed under "IFR operations, two-way radio communications failure"
• Troubleshooting is important but don't fix an airplane airborne when you can safely land first
• Be directive, if you want something, tell them, don't let ATC drive you
• Declare emergencies with general terms, use "electrical" or "engine" for example
• The PIC must notify ATC as soon as possible and obtain an amended clearance
• Discrete emergency frequencies may be assigned by ATC
  • By default use CTAF or guard (121.5/243.0)
  • You must hear different radio communications
• Emergency hand signals are listed in 6-5-3
• First 3 seconds, ask yourself, where am I? What do I have? Is the light valid?
• With every emergency there will be primary and secondary signals
  • It is important to realize that secondary indications may, or may not be present

Required Materials:

• Writing instrument (pen, marker, etc.).
• Writing surface (paper, whiteboard, etc.).
• Pilot Operating Handbook
• Weight & Balance Form Template
• Airman Certification Standards.
• Student jacket.

Optional Materials:

• Instructor endorsement log.

Reference Materials:

• Risk Management Handbook.
• Airplane Flying Handbook.
• Pilot Handbook of Aeronautical Knowledge.
• Airman Certification Standards:
  • Hard copies of the ACS and Oral Exam Guides are available on Amazon.
  • Digital copies of the ACS are available on the FAA's website.

Re-Motivation:

• With a foundation on the requirements to meet certification standards, students can envision a path to certification completion.

Closure:

• Advise students that this lesson will be used as a starting point for the next lesson
• Assign study materials for the next lesson