Welcome to the disPATCH
bi-weekly pilot tips from Patch Aero
Good Morning!
Welcome to the first ever Patch Aero newsletter!
I know, you're probably not used to seeing us in your inbox this much – so if you're not keen on receiving bi-weekly pilot tips from us, we totally understand. You can always adjust your preferences at the top of this email. ⬆️
For our first newsletter, we're talking about channeling a different mindset.
Here’s what’s in today’s disPATCH:
Safety First: Ending the 'Horn Before Brakes' Mindset
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Safety First: Ending the 'Horn Before Brakes' Mindset
By Casey Rice, A&P, CFI - ATP
When you step onto any Airbus A321 for your business trip, the flight attendants always deliver the same safety briefing. They demonstrate how to put on the oxygen mask and emphasize the importance of securing your own mask before assisting others. This precaution is crucial, as the high cabin pressure could cause you to lose consciousness before being able to help anyone else. It's a matter of recognizing a threat and prioritizing self-protection.
There's a concerning shift in our society where the pursuit of being right takes precedence over safety. Take, for instance, the prevalence of road rage captured on YouTube. In these videos, when someone is cut off in traffic, the immediate response is to blast the horn and gesture angrily before even hitting the brakes. This often leads to avoidable accidents that could have been prevented by first applying the brakes, changing lanes, and then, if necessary, sounding the horn. Are we allowing the need to be right to overshadow the importance of safety?
This trend permeates into the aviation community as well, particularly with the use of ADS-B. During my time in the practice area, I frequently hear frantic radio calls such as, '694C, are you there? Do you see me? You're heading right towards me! 694C, we're doing slow flight turn to the south now!' As I observe these situations unfold, it's evident that two aircraft were on a collision course. When the first radio call was made, the planes were already four miles apart. By the time both pilots reacted, they had veered hundreds of feet away from each other laterally and vertically.
Addressing this "horn before brakes" style of flying poses a significant challenge, and I don't have all the answers. In my experience flying in G and E airspace, I adopt an approach as if I don't have a radio at all. Essentially, I operate as though everyone around me is flying a J3 cub without a hand radio, and my radio calls are simply echoing through the atmosphere with nobody listening. I prioritize actively seeking to avoid potential conflicts rather than relying solely on radio communication to navigate the airspace.
Wings Program
The FAA WINGS program empowers pilots to enhance safety by addressing the leading causes of general aviation accidents. It is a proficiency program, designed to build skills, knowledge, and confidence. By staying current and improving proficiency, pilots can enjoy safer, more rewarding flights. The program includes targeted learning activities and flight tasks tailored to specific aircraft categories and classes. With WINGS, pilots gain the tools to master essential skills and fly with assurance.
Sign up Below:
https://www.faasafety.gov/
Our Super Decathlon doing a low pass!
I hope this “WingTIPS” section helps keep you safe! I’d love to hear your thoughts about it! Just hit “reply” to this email. Stay tuned, I have a bunch to share with you.
See you in two weeks,
P.S.
You might be wondering who’s behind this email—I’m Erin, a commercial pilot (single engine, land and sea) and a member of the Patch Aero family! This year I have made the leap from yachting to pursue a career in aviation, flying seaplanes. I’m here to help grow our community of aviators who are passionate about pushing their skills, sharing insights, and enjoying the journey as much as the destination.
P.P.S.
I’d love to hear from you—just hit “reply” to say hello, share your thoughts, or ask a question. Your voice matters, and I can’t wait to connect!