7.17 Aircraft Handling & Storage Flashcards
What is the definition of Foreign Object Damage/Debris (FOD)?
Any article or substance which is alien to an aircraft, or system, which could potentially cause damage.
What are the two types of FOD hazards?
- External FOD hazards
- Internal FOD hazards
List three examples of external FOD hazards.
- Bird strikes
- Hail
- Ice
What is the primary responsibility of an aircraft marshaller?
To guide the aircraft safely to its designated parking spot.
True or False: The marshaller has the final decision on whether to obey marshalling signals.
False
What must a marshaller wear for identification?
A distinctive fluorescent identification vest.
Fill in the blank: Aircraft taxiing refers to the controlled movement of an aircraft on the ground, using its own power, during the _______ and post-flight phases of operation.
[pre-flight]
What equipment is commonly used to tow an aircraft?
A tug with a towing arm/bar attached to the nose wheel.
Describe one safety precaution when taxiing an aircraft.
Ensure that the undercarriage is locked and that it has ground lock pins fitted.
What are the roles of marshalling personnel during taxiing?
- Directing pilots during taxiing
- Parking
- Departure or arrival procedures
What is the maximum steering angle for nose-wheel steering?
+/- 70°
List two internal FOD hazards.
- Items left in the cockpit
- Tools left inside the aircraft
Name the procedures used by aircraft maintenance teams to control tools.
Strict tool control procedures, including toolbox inventories.
What must be ensured regarding personnel during taxiing operations?
The correct number of personnel are available, including a supervisor.
What is a towbar used for?
To attach a towing vehicle to an aircraft’s nose landing gear.
True or False: All aircraft can occasionally lose small parts during take-off and landing.
True
What must be checked when first moving the aircraft?
The brake system must also be checked.
What is the role of the Airport Air Traffic Control (ATC) during taxiing?
To be fully aware of the aircraft movement and times.
Fill in the blank: The nose wheels are steered hydraulically via the _______ steering system.
[nose-wheel]
What color must wands used for signalling be during daylight hours?
Daylight fluorescent-colored.
What does the signal ‘Normal stop’ entail?
Fully extend arms and wands at a 90-degree angle to sides and slowly move to above head until wands cross.
Describe the action for the signal ‘Start engine(s)’.
Raise right arm to head level with wand pointing up and start a circular motion with hand.
What does the signal ‘Cut engines’ indicate?
Extend arm with wand forward of body at shoulder level and move hand to top of left shoulder.
What safety measure must be taken regarding Foreign Object Debris (FOD) during taxiing?
Ensure no FOD can be blown away or ingested by the engines.
What is the purpose of the towing bar/arm during towing operations?
To steer the aircraft.
What is the significance of the crash of Air France Flight 4590?
It demonstrated that accidents can still occur due to FOD.
How should the route for taxiing be prepared?
It must be planned, with call signs for each location known and a map available.
What action is taken to ensure aircraft safety from fixed objects at the arrival point?
Fully briefed personnel must be available.
What is the maximum pressure required for the brake system?
The brake system must be pressurized to operate the brakes.
Fill in the blank: The aircraft is normally taxied with all engines running, but in exceptional circumstances may be taxied on _______.
[one engine]
What is the primary function of the towing arm/bar?
To attach a towing vehicle to the aircraft for movement.
What signaling device should be used at night for marshalling?
Illuminated wands.
Describe the signal for ‘Affirmative/all clear’.
Raise right arm to head level with wand pointing up or display hand with ‘thumbs up’.
How are aircraft equipped with tail wheels generally towed?
By attaching the towbar to the main landing gear.
What must be done to the tail wheel before towing an aircraft equipped with a tail wheel?
The tail wheel must be unlocked.
How are aircraft equipped with tricycle landing gear towed?
By attaching a towbar to the axle of the nosewheel.
What is a key design feature of towbars?
They are designed with sufficient tensile strength but not for torsional loads.
What component is incorporated into towbars to avoid snatching movements?
A shock absorber system, typically a large spring.
What is the purpose of the shear pin in a towbar?
To prevent excessive loads between the tractor and the nose landing gear.
What feature do many towbars have for mobility?
Small wheels that allow them to be drawn behind the towing vehicle.
What type of towbars are specifically designed for particular aircraft?
Special types of towbars built by the aircraft manufacturer.
What are multi-head towbars?
Towbars that allow operators to swap out the head attachment for various aircraft.
What has the introduction of towbarless tugs eliminated?
The need for various aircraft towbars.
How do towbarless tugs operate?
They use hydraulic actuators to lift the landing gear nose off the ground.
What is a remote control tug?
A tug that can push and steer aircraft from underneath the belly.
In what circumstances might bridle (cable) towing be necessary?
When the ground is boggy or very uneven.
What should be done if towing attachments are not provided on main landing gear legs?
Bridles should be passed around the legs, avoiding fouling on adjacent structures.
What is a key safety precaution when towing aircraft?
A qualified person must be on the flight deck to operate the brakes.
What should the towing vehicle speed be in enclosed areas?
Limited to walking pace.
What is the role of wing walkers during aircraft towing?
To ensure adequate clearance of any obstruction in the path of the aircraft.
What must be verified before towing an aircraft with a steerable nosewheel?
The locking scissors must be set to full swivel.
What should not be done while the towbar is attached to the aircraft?
Persons should not attempt to steer or turn the nosewheel.
What is the maximum towing speed relative to the walking team members?
Should not exceed that of the walking team members.
What must be done to the aircraft brake system before each towing operation?
It should be charged.
What should be checked before towing any aircraft?
All tyres and landing gear struts for proper inflation.
What should be avoided to prevent unnecessary stress during towing?
Starting and stopping suddenly.
What should be done to terminate towing safely?
Leave the aircraft in a straight line.
Where should aircraft be parked?
In specified areas only.
What should be placed fore and aft of the main landing gear of parked aircraft?
Wheel chocks.
What type of locks should be used while the aircraft is parked?
Internal or external control locks.
What must be done before moving aircraft across runways or taxiways?
Contact the airport control tower for clearance.
What should be done to an aircraft parked in a hangar?
It should immediately be statically grounded.
What are the different types of aircraft jacks?
- Axle / bottle jack
- Bipod jack
- Tripod jack
- Quadrupod jack
Each type of jack has specific applications and benefits, with tripod and axle jacks being the most common.
What are the common features of tripod and axle jacks?
- Portability
- Hand pump operation
- Self-contained oil reservoir
- Central ram with a hole to accept different jack point adaptors
- Locking collars on the rams
These features ensure the effectiveness and safety of the jacking process.
Describe the primary use of a tripod jack.
Used for lifting entire aircraft straight up
What is the purpose of an axle jack?
To lift a single landing gear for maintenance without raising the whole aircraft
What should be done before using any jacks?
Consult the aircraft maintenance manual and aircraft jack manuals for specific procedures
What can improper use of jacking equipment lead to?
Structural failure of the jacking equipment, damaging the aircraft and injuring personnel
List the checks that must be performed before using jacks.
- Inspect the condition of the jacks
- Check for any bent or stressed components
- Verify all fluid levels
- Check welded joints for signs of fatigue
- Inspect for missing or damaged components
- Examine the condition of the locknuts
- Check the condition of the pins
- Never use a jack that is leaking oil
These checks are crucial for safe operation.
What is a jack pad and its purpose?
Engineered to protect the airframe from the jack
What is shoring in the context of aircraft maintenance?
A method of relieving stresses on the aircraft while performing maintenance
What is the role of the team lead during the jacking process?
To observe the aircraft and ensure it goes up and down in a level fashion
True or False: Wheel chocks are used to prevent aircraft movement while parked.
True
What are the essential components of wheel chocks?
- Sturdy material (wood or rubber)
- Concave profile to contour the wheel
- Rubber coating on the bottom surface for grip
These features enhance the effectiveness of chocks in preventing movement.
What is the purpose of securing an aircraft after each flight?
To prevent damage from sudden storms
Fill in the blank: The practice of tying down an aircraft is known as _______.
[mooring]
What should never be done when securing light aircraft?
Rope must never be tied to a lift strut
What is the recommended position for an aircraft during mooring?
Head into the wind
What safety precautions should be taken when jacking an aircraft?
- Never put hands between an aircraft jack and the corresponding jack pad
- Never align a jack by pounding or kicking the jack legs
- Always lower hand wheel safety nut(s) after fully under load
- Use aircraft tail stand or nose stand for stability
- Inspect legs of the aircraft jack
These precautions help ensure safety during jacking operations.
What should be done if a jack begins to tip during operation?
Lower the aircraft and reposition the jack
What is the role of the plumb bob or spirit level in aircraft levelling?
To aid the team lead in keeping the aircraft level during the jacking process
What should the rope used for tying down an aircraft never be tied to?
Lift strut
Tying to the lift strut can cause bending if the rope slips.
How much slack must be provided for manila rope when tying down an aircraft?
Approximately 25 mm (1 in)
This slack is necessary for movement as manila rope shrinks when wet.
What happens if ropes are too tight when securing an aircraft?
They put inverted flight stresses on the aircraft
Aircraft are not designed to handle inverted flight stresses.
What should be followed for securing aircraft not equipped with tie-down fittings?
Manufacturer’s instructions
Always refer to specific guidelines provided by the manufacturer.
What are the two methods used to tie down heavy aircraft?
Rope or wire cable
The choice depends on the anticipated weather conditions.
What must be engaged or installed when securing heavy aircraft?
Surface control locks
The method of locking varies by aircraft type.
What type of equipment should be used for securing aircraft?
Approved tie down equipment
This includes aircraft cables, ropes, or straps.
Where should the aircraft be tied down?
At designated tie down points
These are typically located at the main landing gear or wing struts.
What should be checked to ensure effective tie down of an aircraft?
For obstacles
Ensure there are no debris, equipment, or other aircraft that could interfere.
What is important regarding the tension of the tie down system?
Use adequate tension
It must keep the aircraft stable without causing damage.
How often should the tie down system be checked?
Periodically
Regular examination ensures security and checks for damage.
In what direction should the aircraft be positioned when tying down?
Into the prevailing wind
This helps stabilize the aircraft.
What additional measures should be taken when securing an aircraft?
Install control locks, covers, and guards
These measures help protect the aircraft.
What should be done to the wheels of the aircraft when tying down?
Chock all wheels fore and aft
This prevents any unwanted movement of the aircraft.
What maintenance tasks are required for aircraft parked for prolonged periods?
Maintenance tasks include:
* Checking aircraft stability in high winds
* Special cold-weather procedures
* Installing protective devices
* Closing avionics ventilation skin valves
* Logging tasks in the technical logbook
What safety precautions must be adhered to when an aircraft is in storage?
Safety precautions include:
* Parking on a flat surface
* Adjusting weight based on expected wind
* Installing safety devices on landing gears
* Ensuring flaps, slats, spoilers, and thrust reversers are retracted
* Setting Trimmable Horizontal Stabiliser (THS) to neutral
* Positioning wheel chocks
* Grounding the aircraft
Why is the installation of protective devices necessary?
Protective devices prevent the ingress of moisture and insects into the inlet and exhaust ducts of the APU and engines
What procedures are required to return an aircraft to operation after less than two days?
Procedures include:
* Removing all safety devices and blanks
* Resetting any deactivated systems
* Conducting a visual inspection for damage and leaks
What are the requirements for parking an aircraft for extended periods?
Requirements include:
* Keeping fuel tanks full
* Draining and cleaning toilet and water systems
* Covering seats to prevent UV damage
* Removing or disconnecting the battery
* Applying special greases to door seals
* Performing periodic visual inspections
Fill in the blank: The longer the aircraft is parked, the more _______ the requirements are for returning the aircraft to service.
[in-depth]
What typical tasks are required for aircraft parked for more than two days?
Typical tasks include:
* Carrying out water drain checks on the fuel system
* Periodic visual inspections at seven and 15-day intervals
* Checking for bird nests or excrement
* Moving the aircraft periodically to prevent brinelling
True or False: The aircraft should be parked with the nose landing gear wheel off the aircraft axis.
False
What additional maintenance checks should be completed for an aircraft in storage?
Additional checks include:
* Draining oil systems of engines and APU
* Filling fuel tanks with inhibitors
* Checking tyre inflation pressures for long-term storage
* Conducting periodic inspections weekly, bi-weekly, monthly, and every three months
What are the typical checks required for aircraft storage?
Typical checks include:
* Weekly: Visuals for leakage and bird nests
* Bi-weekly: Moving aircraft to prevent brinelling
* Monthly: Reapplying protective greases to door seals
* Every three months: Testing avionic and ice protection systems
Fill in the blank: When using adhesive tape for protection, discolouration of the aircraft paint or _______ can occur.
[transfer of colours]
What are the two main categories that aviation fuels fall into?
Aviation gasoline and Turbine fuels
Why is it important to use the correct type and grade of aviation fuel?
Using the wrong type, grade, intermixed, or contaminated fuels can lead to failure of the pumps, valves, or engine
What are the two general refuelling methods?
Gravity or over-wing and Pressure refuelling
What is Aviation Gasoline (AVGAS) formulated to do?
Burn smoothly in piston engine aircraft without detonation or knocking
How are Aviation Gasoline grades color-coded?
- 80 – Red
- 100 – Green
- 100LL (Low Lead) – Blue
What are the types of Turbine fuels?
- Jet A – Freeze point -40 °C (-40 °F)
- Jet A-1 – Freeze point -47 °C (-52 °F)
- Jet B – Freeze point -50 °C (-58 °F)
What is the primary characteristic of turbine fuels?
Colourless or light straw colour
Describe Gravity or Over-wing Refuelling.
Uses a similar method as cars, with filler points generally on the top of the tank
What is Pressure Refuelling used for?
Commonly used for larger aircraft with a single point fuelling system
What is the maximum refuelling pressure for Pressure Refuelling?
Up to 50 psi
What is one method used for defuelling?
Gravity or Pressure method
How is fuel removed using the Pressure Defuelling method?
By utilizing a small negative pressure or aircraft pumps
What must be done with removed fuel?
It must be disposed of correctly with regard to local instructions and the environment
What are two essential safety precautions during refuelling?
- Grounding and bonding of both the aircraft and the fuel truck
- Respecting the fuelling safety zone
Why is grounding important during refuelling?
To ensure electrical continuity and minimize the risk of static discharge sparks
What is bonding in the context of refuelling?
Connecting the fuel truck to the aircraft to guarantee a consistent flow of electricity
What is the recommended minimum distance for no smoking signs from fuelling equipment?
15 m (50 ft)
What must be maintained during fuelling operations to minimize fire risk?
Fire appliances must be readily available
What is a safety zone in the context of refuelling?
An area established to keep personnel safe during refuelling operations
What is a non-exhaustive list of safety precautions during refuelling?
- Approach the aircraft with caution
- Set the hand brake of the fuel truck
- Ground and bond the aircraft and fuel truck
- No smoking within 15 m of fuelling equipment
- Establish fuelling zones before operations
Fill in the blank: The connection between the refuelling hose and the aircraft can be either a sealed coupling or a _______ operated nozzle.
hand
What must be checked after refuelling an aircraft?
The fuel for contamination
What tool is commonly used to perform a water check on fuel?
Shell water detector capsules
What are the specific requirements for cold weather servicing?
Requirements based on:
* Cold-weather experience
* Available equipment and materials
* Climatic conditions at bases
These requirements ensure safe operation and minimize downtime.
What is the typical before flight check for cold weather servicing?
Typical before flight checks include:
* Remove covers, blanks, and locks
* Remove ice and snow from the airframe and engines
* Pre-heat engines
* Fill systems and check for leaks
* Check all heaters and instruments
* Carry out normal before flight inspection
* Repeat ice removal and pre-heat if necessary
Thorough inspections are crucial to ensure safety.
What are the effects of ice on an aircraft?
Effects include:
* Decrease in lift
* Increase in drag
* Decrease in propeller efficiency
* Propeller vibration
* Loss of control movement
* Increased risk of control surface flutter
* Increased load and wing loading
* Loss of inherent stability
* Malfunction of flight instruments
* Loss of vision
* Ice debris damage
* Increased stalling speed
Ice accumulation severely impacts aircraft performance and safety.
What is the primary purpose of de-icing procedures?
To remove frost, ice, snow, and slush from aircraft surfaces.
De-icing ensures that critical flight surfaces are clean for safe operation.
What is the difference between de-icing and anti-icing?
De-icing removes existing frost or ice, while anti-icing prevents the formation of frost or ice on treated surfaces for a limited time (holdover time).
Anti-icing is a precautionary measure taken after de-icing.
What are the two methods of de-icing and anti-icing?
Methods include:
* One-step method
* Two-step method
The one-step method combines de-icing and anti-icing, while the two-step method separates them.
Fill in the blank: The Holdover Time (HOT) is the length of time an aircraft can wait after being treated prior to _______.
[takeoff]
What factors affect the Holdover Time (HOT)?
Factors include:
* Fluid dilution
* Ambient temperature
* Wind conditions
* Precipitation
* Humidity
* Aircraft skin material
* Aircraft skin temperature
These factors determine the effectiveness of anti-icing fluids.
What information must be contained in the anti-icing code?
The anti-icing code must contain:
* Type of fluid
* Percentage of fluid to water (for Type II and IV only)
* Time de-/anti-icing application began
This code aids in assessing holdover times and ensures effective communication.
What are the types of de-icing/anti-icing fluids?
Types include:
* Type I
* Type II
* Type III
* Type IV
Each type has specific characteristics and applications for de-icing and anti-icing.
True or False: Type I fluids are primarily used for anti-icing.
[False]
What is the application process for de-icing fluids?
De-icing fluids are applied heated through a high-pressure spray system.
Proper application is vital for effective de-icing.
What is the application process for anti-icing fluids?
Anti-icing fluids are sprayed cold directly onto clean aircraft surfaces after de-icing.
Timely application is crucial to prevent freezing.
What can cause the time of protection to vary?
Factors include:
* Very bad weather conditions
* High wind speeds
* Wing temperature below OAT
* Age and condition of the fluid
* Method of application
Variations necessitate pre-takeoff inspections.
What is the purpose of the Holdover Time (HOT) Calculation Table?
To develop a HOT table for airlines/operators based on various conditions and fluid types.
The table assists in determining when re-treatment is necessary.
What is the typical holdover time for Type IV anti-icing fluid?
Holdover time can range from 2 hours 40 minutes to zero minutes in extremely bad weather conditions.
This highlights the importance of monitoring weather conditions.
What are the main auxiliary power requirements for aircraft on the ground?
Electrical, hydraulic, and pneumatic systems
These systems are essential for starting engines, providing electricity, and cabin heating or cooling.
What is the typical voltage for Direct Current (dc) supplies in aircraft?
28 Vdc
What must be checked before applying electrical power to an aircraft?
Aircraft serviceability and AMM consultation
What does the dc power plug for aircraft consist of?
Three pins: positive, negative, and earth/relay control pin
What is the function of the relay in the dc power connection?
Switches out the aircraft battery supply and switches in the external supply
What is the ac power supply specification for aircraft?
115 Vac / 400 Hz / 3 phase
What is a Diesel Engine Powered GPU?
A self-contained unit mounted on a mobile platform that generates electrical power
What is a Battery Powered GPU?
Self-contained mobile units powered by batteries that utilize an inverter for ac voltage
What does a Utility GPU do?
Converts mains grid supply into aircraft-compatible power
What is the purpose of the hydraulic test rig?
To supply hydraulic pressure to aircraft systems during maintenance
What are the safety checks required before connecting a hydraulic test rig?
Ensure aircraft serviceability, pre-use checks on the rig, correct type of rig, correct fluid type, and switch position correspondence
What must be done if leaks occur during hydraulic testing?
Stop testing immediately
What is a pneumatic ground air unit used for?
To provide low pressure air for engine starting and cabin heating/cooling
What must be ensured before connecting a pneumatic air supply?
The system must not be pressurized and must be clean
Fill in the blank: The ac power supply socket typically contains ______ pins.
6
True or False: The primary power connection on an aircraft is used only when more power is required.
False
What is essential for safe work with hydraulic systems?
Full training and adherence to safety protocols
What should be done in case of a hydraulic fluid spill?
Clean up immediately
What type of air supply can air carts provide?
Low pressure air up to 50 psi
What is crucial to check before operating a pneumatic air unit?
Certificate of serviceability and air supply parameters
What happens when the external master switch is turned off?
External power is switched off and internal power is switched onto the busbars
What is the purpose of the power supply panel on an aircraft?
To control and indicate the status of external power connections
What must be installed to prevent snow and ice accumulation on an aircraft in cold weather?
Covers for engines, air conditioning system intakes, pitot static system openings, and ram air inlets
These covers help protect sensitive areas of the aircraft from harsh winter conditions.
How can glycol antifreeze compounds be used in cold weather operations?
Painted around doors and access panels to prevent freezing, applied under snow covers, and on wing or tail surfaces
Glycol antifreeze helps reduce ice formation and can save time in maintenance.
What should be done to flaps and spoilers when an aircraft is parked in snow or ice?
Flaps and spoilers must be retracted
This helps prevent ice accumulation and ensures proper aircraft function during takeoff.
What is the best method to remove snow from an aircraft?
Sweep off as much snow as possible using a line or brush
Care should be taken not to damage vortex generators on aircraft.
What must be checked before take-off in cold weather conditions?
All surfaces must be free of ice, snow, or frost
This is crucial for safe flight operations.
What can be used to prevent ice formation on propellers during engine warm-up?
Propeller de-icer
This device helps to avoid ice build-up while the engine is running.
What precautions should be taken for aircraft operating in dusty or sandy environments?
Fitting blanks and covers, extra filtration for air conditioning systems, and increased maintenance for components
These measures help protect aircraft from wear and tear due to particulate matter.
What issues can arise from hot weather operations?
High Turbine Gas Temperatures (TGT), over-heating, slower brake cooling, longer take-off and landing distances
These factors are due to lower air density in hot conditions.
What can cause electrical device malfunctions in humid conditions?
Corrosion, fungi, and moisture absorption by non-metallic materials
These issues are particularly concerning for modern aircraft with electronic systems.
What should be done with the air conditioning systems during aircraft power-up in humid conditions?
Activate the air conditioning systems
This helps eliminate condensation and prepares the systems for operation.
What is a common issue with tyres in high ambient heat?
Tyres can wear more quickly and develop flat spots
High temperatures soften the tyre material, leading to increased wear.
What must be ensured during heavy rain to prevent water infiltration in aircraft?
All covers must be fitted and drain points kept clear
This helps prevent water accumulation in critical areas.
What should be done to doors during heavy rain?
Refrain from opening them unless necessary, and ensure entrance drains are clear
This prevents water ingress into the aircraft.
