EAA863’s own Bruce Thomas led the July chapter meeting presentation with a focus on safety. Bruce presented, “Passenger Ready – A look at Airworthiness and Pilot Currency.” Bruce highlighted that the decision to fly, with or without passengers, is up to the pilot in command.
Bruce stressed the emphasis on currency, in the aircraft that you fly, and how comfortable you, as the pilot in command, feel about your aircraft. Bruce noted that pilots should be mindful of how their aircraft flew the last time they had it out and if the aircraft had just come out of maintenance. Both scenarios, if adverse, should be addressed before carrying passengers on the next flight.
Bruce kept the presentation interactive, and polled the audience with two scenarios, having his children assist with the collection of the ballots. First, Bruce polled the audience with which aircraft the audience would feel comfortable letting their children fly in. Second, Bruce polled the audience with which pilot, the audience would feel comfortable letting their children fly in. This led to some great conversations, laughs, and ultimately, a safety discussion which is what Bruce intended.
Thanks Bruce for a great presentation and a job well done!