Day 25 of the 31-Day Safer Pilot Challenge
Day 25 of the 31-Day Safer Pilot Challenge dives into a crucial topic that affects every pilot regardless of experience level – weight and balance. Jason Schappert reminds pilots how something as simple as a miscalculation can turn a routine takeoff into a life-threatening event. As the 2024 Safer Pilot Challenge nears an end, the importance of returning to aviation.
The NTSB Report: What Really Happened?
On February 2, 2005, a Challenger jet (N370V) prepared for a charter flight from Teterboro, NJ to Chicago Midway (MDW). As the jet accelerated down Runway 6 with 11 people onboard, it failed to rotate for takeoff. The crew realized too late that the aircraft’s center of gravity was significantly forward of the acceptable limit – well outside of the takeoff envelope. Despite attempting a high-speed rejected takeoff, they had already passed V1, the critical decision speed beyond which takeoff must continue. The aircraft careened off the runway, crossed a highway, hit a vehicle, and crashed into a building.
Incredibly, all passengers and crew survived, some with minor to serious injuries. The NTSB concluded that the pilots failed to ensure the aircraft was properly loading within its weight and balance limits – an error that directly led to the inability to achieve lift-off.
Why Weight and Balance Must Never Be Overlooked
This incident reminds pilots that complacency can be deadly. While many view weight and balance checks as a box to tick during their preflight procedures, it remains a critical responsibility for pilots at all levels. Flying the same aircraft regularly can lead to overconfidence. Small variations in fuel, passengers, baggage, or even oil can change the flight characteristics of one’s aircraft. Pilots must understand that every flight is unique and must be treated as such.
Day 25 of the 31-Day Safer Pilot Challenge, emphasizes the importance of verifying weight and balance before every flight – whether using an EFB or manually with charts and calculations. This is not just about passing a checkride – it’s about safety, professionalism, and responsibility.
Small Decisions, Big Consequence
The Challenger incident also highlights the importance of timely decision-making during critical phases of flight. The crew had multiple opportunities to abort or recalculate. Delays in recognizing and reacting to a problem only compounded the risk. As pilots, we must be proactive, not reactive. By conducting thorough preflight planning – including proper weight and balance – pilots give themselves the margin to handle the unexpected.
Promotion
Ready to ace your checkride? Take preparation to the next level with the MzeroA Checkride Book Series. Packed with in-depth knowledge, real-world scenarios, and insight, these books are designed to help you walk into your checkride with confidence. Whether you’re a student or a seasoned pilot looking to brush up on your knowledge, check out the Private, Instrument and Commercial books today! Copies are available in paperback, audio and e-book.