The Risk of Startle Reflex

A startle reflex may arise during flight as a result of a sudden and unexpected development which, especially if it affects the ‘Pilot Flying’, can trigger an instantaneous and potentially inappropriate response in relation to the control of an aircraft. Its occurrence, and the resultant risk which may follow, is suspected to have its origins…… Continue Reading →

Unexpected Go-Arounds

The most likely scenario for a go-around is probably either a still-occupied runway or visibility which prevents continuation of an approach at or near the applicable minima. If this happens, the possibility will often – but not always – have been foreseen. These are also the sort of go-arounds which feature in every simulator session,…… Continue Reading →

Understanding RNP Approaches

Many years experience of Performance Based Navigation (PBN) based on GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite Systems) such as GPS for en-route and terminal area navigation has led to an extension of the same principle to RNAV approaches as an alternative to those relying entirely on ground-based aids. The good understanding of the RNP approach is essential…. Continue Reading →