Fly Safely, Every Time!
General aviation saw 68 tragic losses in 2023. At EASA, we believe we can do better! Over the coming weeks, Yngvi and Wendell are going to be diving into the different safety challenges the analysis of recent accidents has identified as common causes of accidents in recreational flying.
Top 4 things to focus on:
- Manage Your Flight – Prepare thoroughly, and stay alert at all stages.
- Stay in Control – Practice your emergency reactions to maintain control even in stressful situations.
- Cope with Weather – Don’t take chances! Know how to handle tricky weather conditions.
- See and be Seen - Avoid mid-air collisions by keeping good awareness of where you are and where other aircraft are.
Managing the Flight
Effective flight management begins long before takeoff. From pre-flight checks to post-flight reviews, pilots must ensure that every element of their flight plan is meticulously prepared. Pilots are encouraged to systematically check critical components, such as mass and balance calculations, route and fuel planning, and the condition of the aircraft. Attention to these details can prevent avoidable accidents caused by minor oversights, such as inadequate fuel or unchecked flight controls.
Staying in Control
Loss of control is a leading cause of fatal accidents, particularly during takeoff. Data from the ASR shows that 41% of these accidents occur during takeoff, compared to 21% during landing. Pilots must prepare their minds for immediate action in case of engine failure or other emergencies. Proper training, including visualizing potential failure scenarios and practicing emergency procedures, is crucial for maintaining control of the aircraft and ensuring a safe flight.
Coping with Weather
One of the most dangerous situations for a pilot is flying from visual flight rules (VFR) into instrument meteorological conditions (IMC). Despite awareness of the risks, pilots continue to find themselves in situations where visibility is severely limited, leading to accidents categorized as controlled flight into terrain (CFIT). EASA urges pilots to be prepared for deteriorating weather by maintaining instrument proficiency, using autopilot when available, and communicating with air traffic control when necessary.
See and be Seen
Avoid mid-air collisions by keeping good awareness of where you are and where other aircraft are.
Conclusion
EASA’s ASR underscores the importance of preparation, training, and situational awareness in general aviation. Pilots who take the time to manage their flight, maintain control in emergencies, and cope with weather challenges can drastically reduce the risk of accidents. By adopting these practices, pilots will ensure their safety and continue to enjoy flying for years to come.
Your safety is in your hands! Check out the main Annual Safety Review at the link below and find out more. Tell us what you think about the analysis and what concerns you have when you go flying.
Let’s keep flying safely and return to the skies another day! 
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