I've always thought that the "flow" system was best checklist system for
light aircraft allowing for their simplicity and my penchant for keeping
things simple.
I remember from pilot training days in the T-33, the before starting
engine checklist was "Left to right-Checked". Huh? That's it to start a jet?
The method was to flow" from left to right checking to ensure all switches
and other items were in the correct position. I submit that this would
be a good system for the Ercoupe owing to its. simplicity. Actually, some
airlines use this system also, claiming the checklist is not a "do list".
The drill: Before starting engine - Left to right (Fuel on, primer,
ignition both, master switch on). I use a simple memory jog "1-2-3-4", or
you
could use an acronyms like FFIM.
The starting engine checklist is simple. After all, it's like starting a
car. Start the engine then, check OIL PRESSURE immediately. That's only
one item but a very important one.
Before taxi is another simple cockpit check, left to right, glancing and
setting appropriate items, such as Transponder Standby, Radio on,
Altimeter set, GPS on and whatever else you want to set.
The taxi checklist could include only two items, brakes (checked
immediately as you begin to taxi and flight instruments, i.e., turn and slip
indicating left/right turn, mag compass-bowl full of fluid no bubbles and
indicating turns. BF.
The before take off checklist I like to use is MAGIC, standing for
Magnetos, Aircraft trim, Gas, Instruments (oil pressure, amps) and Controls
(free
and easy, left aileron up, right down, elevator up down and rudder
left/right if you have rudder pedals).
Taking the active would be Transponder-Alt or On, Carburetor heat-Off.
CT. (I use CI because I still want to call the transponder the IFF).
For descent, not much to do except carburetor heat on, if required, maybe
mixture rich if you have one. (I usually have carb heat on for descent as a
matter of habit).
Before landing, if you have a mixture control ensure it is set rich and
check carb heat on
After landing, not much to do here except carb heat off and transponder
standby. CT again.
I know everyone will want to add/delete items from this but this system is
workable and keeps your eyeballs looking outside while taxiiing and while
flying. In any event KISS and keep the blue on top and green on the
bottom.
Bart
