Weather Hazards

The Dangers of Fog

Weather plays a huge role for pilots and the safety of others. Additionally, weather can also be a challenging factor for pilots to maneuver through. However, fog poses a huge threat to not only inexperienced pilots but for experienced pilots as well. When a pilot can’t see the runway, it becomes dangerous for a safe departure and landing. Also, “fog the second-most fatal factor, was associated with 40% of all accidents, fatal accidents, and fatalities within the ceiling, visibility, or precipitation-related category” (Flutz 2016).  Furthermore, it’s the pilot and air traffic controller’s job to ensure every flight is safe. “Having weather information available to pilots, air traffic controllers, and meteorologist is crucial, improper understanding and misutilization of this information can prove just as dangerous (if not more dangerous) as not having that information at all” (NTSB 2014).

“Fog is a cloud that is on the surface. It typically occurs when the temperature of the air near the ground is cooled to the air's dew point. At this point, water vapor in the air condenses and becomes visible in the form of fog” (PHAK 12). Look at it this way, it’s hard to drive in fog no matter what he or she is operating. Whether the operator knows the roads very well or not, the bottom line is, when operating a vehicle and unable to see it becomes dangerous. The same concept applies to a pilot flying an aircraft. It’s harder for them to effectively fly an aircraft when relying on the instruments. Although pilots are trained to fly in adverse weather conditions, landing can still be a challenging task when the pilot is unable to see the runway. This is why the FAA has certain reports to help pilots make a safe assessment. Additionally, the most commonly used reports are, aviation routine weather report (METAR), pilot weather reports (PIREPs), and runway visual range (RVR) (PHAK 13). Also, “the FAA and the industry are working together to identify risk, pinpoint trends through root cause analysis, and develop safety strategies” (FAA 2018).

In conclusion, there can be unwanted weather conditions that pose a threat, but there are several approaches the pilot can take to safeguard everyone on the aircraft. Whether it's delaying or canceling the flight, the pilot and tower need to make a proper assessment of the conditions to ensure the safety of everyone. "Aviation weather reports are designed to give accurate depictions of current weather conditions. Each report provides current information that is updated at different times" (PHAK 13). The reports are implemented to ensure pilots make a safety assessment before operating the aircraft. At the end of the day, life is not worth making a simple mistake to ensure the aircraft takes off. So be smart and always take precaution when operating an aircraft.

References

Flutz, A. & Ashley, W. (2016). Fatal weather-related general aviation accidents in the United States. Physical Geography. Retrieved from http://chubasco.niu.edu/pubs/Fultz%20and%20Ashley%202016.pdf

National Transportation Safety Board. (2014). General Aviation: Identify and Communicate Hazardous Weather. Retrieved from https://www.ntsb.gov/safety/mwl/Pages/mwl7_2014.aspx

Federal Aviation Administration. (2016). Weather Theory. Pilots Handbook of Aeronautical Knowledge FAA-H-8083-25B chapter 12 14-15. Retrieved from https://www.faa.gov/regulations_policies/handbooks_manuals/aviation/phak/media/14_phak_ch12.pdf

Federal Aviation Administration. (2016). Aviation Weather Services. Pilots Handbook of Aeronautical Knowledge FAA-H-8083-25B chapter 13 5-6. Retrieved from https://www.faa.gov/regulations_policies/handbooks_manuals/aviation/phak/media/15_phak_ch13.pdf

Federal Aviation Administration. (2018). Fact Sheet-General Aviation Safety. United States Department of Transportation. Retrieved from https://www.faa.gov/news/fact_sheets/news_story.cfm?newsId=21274

Air Traffic Control Entities

Airspace Classifications

There are many types of controlled airspace that are organized by specific classifications. These classifications range from Class A to Class G and each class has its own restrictions as well. To give you an idea on what these restrictions are, Class A airspace is for an aircraft operating at 18,000 feet MSL up to and including FL 600 where Class C is restricted to the surface on the airport to 4,000 feet above airport elevation (FAA, 2016). Also most airports have their own classification, based on its size and volume of aircraft that arrive and depart on a daily basis.

RDU vs FAY

   As illustrated in the chart above, there is a big difference between a Class B (surface to 10,000 feet MSL) and a Class C airport (FAA, 2016). Two airports that can be used as an example is Fayetteville Regional Airport (FAY) and Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU). While RDU is a Class B Airport, FAY is a smaller airport and categorized as a Class C airport. Although there are multiple similarities with both the airports, there are several differences that could be explored as well. Additionally, these similarities are directed to how they support air traffic management as well. Even though RDU is larger than FAY, the similarities extend to all airports in general. All airports are strategically placed into an airspace classification, they all have directed landing requirements that are in place, and they have specified altitudes they must operate. Also, they all have communication requirements and monitoring that they must abide to as well. Due to these similar requirements, this has assisted in the success of how each airport operates.

Differences

As for differences, there are several of those aspects as well, especially with RDU in comparison to FAY. With a larger airport like RDU, Air Traffic Controllers (ATC’s) must be highly proficient in their duties. The reason is because hundreds of flights leave on a daily basis and there is so much air space traffic that one mistake could be a fatal mistake if not actioned correctly. Also, RDU has more lighting and visual aids due to having more runways so that departing and arriving aircraft can distinguish between where they are to land and depart from. An airport like FAY, since it is a smaller airport, might not have as much lighting and less visuals due to having only one runway. Also, that makes an ATC’s job a lot easier since they do not deal with the volume that RDU deals with. Lastly, with FAY, there is less of a chance of having communication congestion due to small amount of volume that it has compared to RDU. 

Conclusion

 The FAA has directed Airspace Classifications for a reason. There are many airports and they need to be categorized based on their size and volume of aircraft that depart and arrive on a daily basis. As compared above, there are many similarities and differences between a Class B and Class C airport. Although those similarities apply to all airports, the differences can range or change depending on the classification of the airport. Most importantly, understanding these classifications will illustrate how each entity supports air traffic management and what level is needed to in regards to air traffic management for each of these classifications.  

References

FAA. (2016). Pilots Handbook of Aeronautical Knowledge. U.S. Department of Transportation, Federal Aviation Administration. Retrieved From https://www.faa.gov/regulations_policies/handbooks_manuals/aviation/phak/media/17_phak_ch15.pdf

The Airport and the Environment

Deicing Concerns 

Every winter certain airports run into issues during winter. The aircrafts have to be deiced, and the runways salted. However, this process sparks concerns for the environment. Additionally, managers run into the issues of getting the aircraft up and running in colder environments.  “Airports across the country spray millions of gallons of deicing chemicals onto airliners and allow the runoff to trickle away. When the chemicals end up in nearby waterways, the deicing fluid can turn streams bright orange and create dead zones for aquatic life” (2009).

Harsh winters have an impact on aircrafts, that’s why the deicing process is critical for the overall performance of the aircraft. “The buildup of ice and snow on critical surfaces of an aircraft decreases lift and can lead to disastrous results” (2010). The process is essential for aircrafts and progression of the aviation industry. However, those same chemicals should have just as much an impact in protecting our environment as well. The industry can improve the situation in three easy steps. The first step, acknowledge and address the problem. Secondly, develop the best course of action to clean up the hazardous chemicals. The third step, implement and support the course of action to clean up the hazardous chemicals. If the environmental program is proactive with those three steps, environmental hazards in the aviation industry could be an afterthought down the road.

Deicing chemicals are a growing issue that needs to be addressed. Certain airports have started implementing restrictions and banning certain compounds in deicing products. However, there is still a lot of work that needs to be done to improve the problem. Additionally, manufacturers need to be more accountable for what they are producing while developing improved methods for those products. Also, the aviation industry must come together in agreement with the FAA regulations and implement those regulations immediately. Until that happens, hazardous chemicals from the deicing process will continue to deteriorate the environment and be a growing concern for years to come.

References

Associated Press. (2009). EPA: Limit plane deicing chemical runoff. Retrieved from http://www.nbcnews.com/id/33071411/ns/us_news-environment/t/epa-limit-plane-deicing-chemical-runoff/#.XKLtGphKhPZ

Joe McGrail. (2010). Deicing/ Anti-icing: Environmental Innovation in Deicing Fluid. Retrieved from https://www.aviationpros.com/gse/deicing-anti-icing-equipment-services/article/10370775/deicingantiicing-environmental-innovation-in-deicing-fluid

Legislative Act

The aviation industry is advancing every day and continues to refine its current aircraft into an even more advanced piece of equipment. The problem that occurs with the continues refinement of aircrafts, programs, and policies is how to implement them. Additionally, the industry is strategically developing programs to enforce safety standards. However, the turnover for those programs take time to implement. That’s why everyone should understand how legislative laws have an impact on the aviation industry.

The “Federal Aviation Act was created to promote safe air travel, and to protect lives and property of people on the ground as well as air travelers” (USLegal, 2016). The industry knew they were struggling when certain events started to unfold. Unfortunately, the act was created after several disasters happened. Additionally, corporate decided enough is enough, they needed a legislative act to set the foundation for safety. Furthermore, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) set the foundation of creating a safer environment, implementing policies and holding all airlines to the same standards. At the end of the day, the FAA has a huge impact in the aviation industry. Without the FAA, the industry wouldn’t have a strong safety program nor run efficiently.

In conclusion, there will always be flaws in the aviation industry. However, they know there has to be different legislative acts to prevent or mitigate accidents from happening and create a safe working environment. At the end of the day, it’s better to be safe than sorry. If you have to think twice about whether it’s safe or not, the answer is most likely a no. However, flying can be a tedious job, but the regulations implemented are there for the safety of everyone. So always follow the regulations and policies in accordance with the FAA, because one day the Federal Aviation Act may save a life.

Reference

USLegal. (2016). Federal Aviation Act. Retrieved from

           https://aviation.uslegal.com/government-regulation-and-control/federal-aviation-act/

Team-Based Human Factors Challenges

Human Error

 There are several challenges the aviation industry faces on a day to day basis. Additionally, having to work with several people to form a team can be very challenging. Whether it’s dealing with stress or servicing an aircraft, there’s a list of human errors that come with the job description. However, the industry understands humans have many flaws, that’s why risks management procedures and regulations are set in place. Furthermore, according to the FAA’s Aviation Handbook, “It is universally agreed that 80 percent of maintenance errors involve human factors. If they are not detected, they can cause events, worker injuries, wasted time, and even accidents” (2018).

The military and other industries face a challenge working together as a team. When dealing with multiple people and trying to work together as a team it can be a very difficult task. Also, taking into consideration the different personality types as well. Furthermore, when working with a team there is always going to be a leader of the group and the rest of them are the followers. At the end of the day, the military is forced to work together as a team and if someone is unable to blend, it creates conflict for the rest of the team. From the words of Andrew Eifler, “A team is only as strong as its weakest link” (2013). The same rules apply in the aviation industry. However, there is always going to be someone that makes an error and causes the whole team to fail. That is why several challenges are associated with team based activities.

Aircraft servicing is a very tedious task, the overall process takes several people working together as a team to complete the service. Look at it like a puzzle, if a piece of the puzzle is out of place then the puzzle is not complete. Just like technicians, if a member of the team messes something up and refuses to comply with FAA regulations and adhere to the maintenance process it may cause risks, which then takes longer to complete the puzzle. Additionally, that is why the industry has several systems to make sure everything is running correctly and the pieces are getting put back together in the correct places.

In conclusion, the industry deals with several factors. Human error will always be the biggest risk in any working environment. Additionally, having the understanding when more than one person is completing a task that someone is always going to make a mistake. Whether it’s something simple or not, everyone needs to comply with the regulations set in place to help mitigate the overall human error factor in the aviation industry. Lastly, always be a team player and comply with safety regulations. Also, be aware of your surrounds at all times. So be smart and take everything into consideration when working in the aviation industry.

References

United States, Department of Transportation, Federal Aviation Administration. (2018). Retrieved March 18, 2019, from https://www.faasafety.gov/files/gslac/courses/content/258/1097/AMT_Handbook_Addendum_Human_Factors.pdf

Andrew Eifler. (2013). A team is only as strong as its weakest player. Retrieved March 18, 2019, from http://www.andreweifler.com/a-team-is-only-as-strong-as-its-weakest-player/

Aviation Security

The Importance of Training

More than several billion people fly on a day to day basis and the numbers are only increasing. Weather it’s flying for work, school, or personal pleasure, there has to be an approach to safeguarding everyone on the flight. TSA needs to safeguard not only themselves and the flight crew but everyone else as well. Additionally, the industry has multiple ways of safeguarding everyone. Also, knowing the right form of protection and when to implement the training depends on the current situation. This why training is very important for the security system.

Before the high jacking happened on September 11th, flying used to be a very different experience for travelers. Not only was it easy to make it through prescreening, it was also easy to pass through TSA with banned items. Additionally, insider threats were becoming more evident in the aviation industry. However, it was a huge wakeup call for the aviation industry after the terrorist attack took place. Also, the industry knew they had to improve the overall security system to make flying a safe and enjoyable experience. They knew training would be a very important role in the “20 Layers of U.S. Aviation Security” (TSA, 2017).

In conclusion, training is very important for not only the military but the aviation industry as well. One of the many mottos in the military is, “Train as you fight” (Melody, 2017).  If there’s someone untrained in a situation, how are they able to effectively safeguard or eliminate the threat. At the end of the day, training could save a life or end it. This is why training is very important in the overall security plan. 

Reference:

TSA. (August 2017). Inside Look: TSA Layers of Security. Retrieved March 11, 2019 from https://www.tsa.gov/blog/2017/08/01/inside-look-tsa-layers-security

Melody Everly. (June 2017). Train as you fight, fight as you train. Retrieved March 11, 2019 from  https://www.army.mil/article/189059/train_as_you_fight_fight_as_you_train

Aircraft Systems: Fuel Injection Systems

From gravity fed to fuel pumps there are many different types of fuel injection systems. All components in a fuel system are very important for operating aircrafts. Additionally, the fuel is either fed from the pump or gravity fed. Just like a vehicle the fuel provides combustion for the engine to run. Lastly, several issues may arise if any piece of the fuel injection system is not operating properly.

First, failure in the fuel injection system can cause serious injuries or further damage to the aircraft. If a fuel pump doesn’t work the engine will ultimately not start up due to the lack of fuel to create combustion for the engine to turn over. Second, any leak in the system may cause a massive fire. The slightest spark to aircraft fuel (Jet A-1), may cause the aircraft to explode. However, to properly mitigate the risks of failures the fuel injection system needs to be properly maintained. Just like any other component in the aircraft conducting preventative maintenance and regular services can mitigate the risks of an explosion.

In conclusion, the fuel injection system may cause several major issues. However, always make sure to proceed with caution and adhere to the aircrafts manual for proper handling of fuel injection systems. Additionally, making sure the aviation technicians are adhering to proper handling in accordance with the technical manuals. The Jet A-1 is a highly combustible fuel, so making sure there are no fuel leaks is very important. At the end of the day a life is not overlooking a simple mistake or not adhering to the manuals. So in addition, make sure to always put safety first over anything else.

References:

Corey Doggett. (2017). Flight Mechanic, Fuel Injection Systems. Retrieved March 4, 2019 from http://www.flight-mechanic.com/fuel-injection-systems-part-one/