In this video, I will demonstrate a VFR departure briefing along with a departure which utilizes some of that briefing. It is important that pilots be aware of what they're about to launch into... but many people I train with aren't as ready as they ought to be for anything beyond the norm to happen in those first few seconds of flight. Performing a VFR departure briefing is a good way to prepare for the unexpected ... and ensure the appropriate (and timely) reaction!
As I mention in this video, Mike was able to act quickly and deploy the CAPS when his engine failed right after departure. He could do this because he makes it a requirement to do a departure briefing (not in that video so we could feature it here) and because he uses the "Flaps and CAPS" call every time he departs.
Here you can listen to me perform the briefing and depart using some of those elements:
A VFR departure briefing is going to be difficult for most established pilots to start performing. I have heard the excuses, but they really boil down to, "I have been flying this long and it works fine. I know what to do if something happens, I can handle this." Of course we think we could handle it. If we didn't, then why climb into the airplane in the first place? That wouldn't be very smart...
But what we find when doing simulator training is that many pilots aren't all that prepared to make a tough call fast. A pretty hefty margin of experienced Cirrus pilots don't make the decision to pull the CAPS handle soon enough, espeically when there's something like a low altitude engine failure involved and time is short. After a few scenarios in the sim, we find those habits changing quickly.
If you have seen our other videos, you'll remember that we're now offering a program that will allow pilots unlimited access to an instructor and our simulator for a really low price. You can find out more about the program by clicking here.
The short form is that for the price of 3,295 you get all the simulator training and instruction that you want for a year. This is equal to about two and a half days of training so if you could find an excuse to do even that much, you'd be ahead. Spouses are allowed to attend training and take part in a pinch-hitter style course at no cost. We're also working with Starr Aviation Underwriters to offer a 10% discount off your insurance premiums.
Give us a call at (866) 557-1501 or an email at info@theflightacademy.com if you'd like to talk about this program. Don't forget to view our options for people from out of town and some examples of the training you can receive found under the tab along the top titled Unlimited Simulator.
Safe flying!
John Fiscus
Chief Pilot, The Flight Academy
www.theflightacademy.com 
Posted
5 Jan 2010 10:44
by
John Fiscus