Pre-flight Checklist

What is this about?

A pre-flight checklist does not take over decision-making responsibility or prove that a flight is suitable on its own. Its role is to make equipment, communication, site and personal-preparation points visible before a routine lets them slip by. For training flights the responsible instructor, and for individual flights the pilot, remains responsible for the current assessment.

1. Pilot and personal readiness

Personal condition is part of a sound flight plan. Fatigue, illness, distraction, a sense of rushing or confidence that does not match the conditions should not be excluded from the assessment.

• Is my current experience, level and state of mind realistic for today?
• Are helmet, suitable clothing and footwear ready?
• Is the communication and emergency plan clear in the site briefing?

2. Wing, harness and reserve system

A daily equipment check does not replace manufacturer instructions or periodic maintenance. It can, however, help address observable issues such as an incorrect connection, open zipper, untidy arrangement or another visible concern before launch.

• Is there anything unusual on the wing or lines?
• Are harness, connections and helmet orderly?
• Is the reserve system aligned with its maintenance and packing plan?

3. Weather, site and flight plan

One app or a single wind figure is not enough for a flight decision. Current forecast, site observation, wind character, landing area, possible change and the pilot's level limit need to be considered together.

Before launch, the landing area, an approach concept, alternatives and the choice to stand down should have been discussed. FAI encourages a checklist habit and a flight-planning chain of information, observation, assessment, decision and execution.