KSGF News
May 2002

President’s Message - Here we are again.

Some of us fly different airplanes regularly and others, like me, usually fly only one. Have you ever looked real hard at the airplane during preflight? Do you "know the airplane" and decide that it was okay last time we flew so I will cut the preflight short?

The other day, I watched a preflight on a little twin at Avn Enterprises. First the left engine top cowl was removed and then the right. I went over and was told that there was a large nest in front of oil cooler, noticed while checking the oil level. How many times have we given a cursory look at the oil level but not looked inside the cowling? The hidden danger can usually be seen without too much trouble.

I have to say I have been lucky in my flying career. No major errors or injuries. I have to admit I have to remind myself to check in the cowling because I fly one airplane all the time. The walk around can become routine since we flew only a day or two before, we put it in the hangar and it has not move since. So I try to keep it interesting by convincing myself that it is a new/different aircraft that I know nothing about. It helps but even then I catch myself slipping into the old habit of not looking where I really should.

We all have our procedures for preflight and most work well with the planned flight completed safely. But what would happen if your procedure was interrupted or shortened? Would you be safe? Would you have any problems with/doubts about the airplane while you were flying? Just remember - proper preparation makes for a safer flight.

Good flying and keep the shiny side up.

Tom Holmer, Vice President

This month's MPA Chapter meeting is Tuesday May 21th at Café SGF, Springfield/Branson Regional Airport. Social hour begins 6:30P.M. Buffet dinner is at 7:00 P.M. Cost is $10.00 per person.
Program: Collin Hughes on Insturment Training and Currency.

Calendar of Events

5/3-5 MPA Convention, Ramada Inn, West Plains, MO. Hosted by the South Central Chapter. Plan on attending this years Convention! See our MPA Web Site, http://www.mopilots.org for info.

5/12 MPA Board Meeting, Columbia Regional Airport, Columbia, MO. Board Meets at 1:00 P.M. in old FSS Bldg. All MPA Members Welcome!

5/23 FAA Aviation Safety Seminar. Cox N Hospital Fountain Plaza Room. 7:00-9:30 P.M. For more information contact Larry G. Harmon 417-863-6939 e-mail MPALHARMON@aol.com

5/16 EAA Chapter 821 Monthly Meeting. Air & Military Museum of the Ozarks, 2305 E. Kearney (Lurvey Plaza) 7:00 P.M. For more information contact President Larry G. Harmon (417) 863-6939 or E-mail EAALHARMON@aol.com

6/9 MPA Board Meeting, Columbia Regional Airport, Columbia, MO. Board meets at 1:00 P. M . in old FSS Bldg. ALL MPA Members Welcome!

Robin