Blue Skies and High Temperatures: Summer safety tips
With the summer around the corner, it is time to refresh your knowledge and share tips about safely flying in warm weather conditions. Most pilots do not consciously think about the diffe- rence between flying in the summer and the winter season. Let’s skip the rainy season because nobody likes that...
So, what do you have to think about when flying in summer conditions? Well, let’s dive right into it. Helicopter Performance can be affected significantly by the following factors: Outside air temperature: Air density de- creases as the temperature increases. As the air becomes less dense, more power is required to maintain lift. Humidity: As the relative humidity increases, the air becomes less dense, thus reducing the lift generated by the rotor system. Wind: Generally, there is less wind pres- ent during the summer season. This can be a disadvantage for hover or low air- speed operations requiring more power. Do a proper performance calculation before your flight according to the flight manual. Human performance can be affected by the following factors: Temperature: In cockpits without A/C it can get quite hot in the sum- mer. Remember to frequently hydrate throughout the day and wear loose / breathable clothing. When you feel fatigued, land! Visibility: Remember to always bring your sunglasses and/or a hat before jumping into the pilot seat. It doesn’t only look cool, it improves visibility due to sun glare significantly and prevents a headache. Remember IMSAFE! General flight safety can be affected by the following factors: Bugs: Bugs on the windshield can be confused with traffic, when they accumu- late throughout the day it can be harder to see actual traffic or easier to ignore
The summer season can be especially busy in the airspace, which means there are extra precautions you need to take as a pilot.
happen to see a wasp, stay calm and focus on your flight. Thunderstorms: There is a much higher chance of thunderstorms during the summer season. Be aware of this and always mitigate them. Examine the weather precisely before commencing your flight, even if the skies are blue…! Traffic/Gliders: Most private pilots only fly when the weather is nice leading to busy airspace on sunny days. Make sure to check for traffic regularly and contact ATC for any traffic information. Also be cautious for gliders in the area, especial- ly when the ground has been warming up all day. Keeping the above in mind, I wish you all as many safe takeoffs as landings. Do not forget to enjoy whilst you are navigating through the blue skies! KOEN V.D HEYDEN Safety Manager, EHC Netherlands
traffic. Clean the windshield before every flight to enhance your ability to see other traffic easier / quicker. Wasps: Make sure that there are no wasps inside the cockpit before com- mencing your flight. You don’t want to be stung while on short final…! If you do Koen Van Der Heyden, Safety Manager at EHC Netherlands, shares his top tips for flying during the summer season.
18 Unlock The Skies – Your Guide to Helicopter Training & Careers
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