1. Pre-Flight Exterior Inspection.
Before starting the engine, it is important to make sure that the exterior of the aircraft is in good condition and that all necessary components are working properly. This includes inspecting the wings, landing gear, flaps and slats, control surfaces, and other external trim pieces. It is also important to check for loose objects, such as stones or debris that may be lodged into any of the components.
2. Cold and Dark to Engine Start.
After ensuring the exterior is in good condition, it is important to confirm all necessary settings are correct prior to starting the engines. This includes checking power sources, switch positions and fuel levels. Once these items have been verified, then you can proceed with starting the engine(s).
3. Before Taxi.
Before taxiing, it is important to ensure that all essential systems are functioning properly and that all appropriate checklists have been completed. This includes verifying flaps and slats settings, navigation instruments (GPS/INS/VOR), communication radios, autopilot functions, and de-icing/anti-ice systems.
4. Before Takeoff.
Before taking off, it is important to confirm that all necessary checklists are completed, including pre-flight exterior inspection and before taxi checks. Additionally, pilots should verify the aircraft weight and balance, engine idle settings, flap settings, fuel mixture settings, wind speed/direction and other environmental factors.
5. After Takeoff.
Once airborne, it is important to monitor any changes in the aircraft's performance or unusual behavior while checking instruments such as airspeed indicators, altimeters and attitude indicators. Additionally, pilots should be sure to check for any alerts from their navigation radios or autopilot systems during this phase of flight.
6. Cruise.
During cruise, it is important to continuously monitor the aircraft's performance and instruments. Additionally, pilots should also be sure to continuously adjust their heading and altitude as necessary in order to follow their planned route of flight.
7. Before Landing.
Before initiating a descent for landing, pilots should review all necessary checklists and confirm their approach speed, desired rate of descent, landing gear settings, and other necessary items prior to beginning the approach.
8. Landing.
During the final phase of flight, attention must be paid to any changes in windspeed/direction or other environmental factors that may affect the aircraft's performance or its ability to land safely on the runway. Additionally, pilots should ensure that they are lined up with the proper runway and in the correct position to make their approach.
9. After Landing.
After landing, it is important to confirm that all necessary checklists have been completed and that all systems are functioning properly. Additionally, pilots should also verify that their aircraft is securely parked on the apron or ramp and that no other items need to be taken care of before shutting down the engines.
10. Parking.
Finally, prior to parking the aircraft, pilots should confirm that all instruments are powered off and that all control surfaces/flaps/slats are set correctly for parking. It is also important to ensure any necessary post-flight maintenance tasks have been completed prior to powering down the engine(s).