Position Paper IFALPA: Take-off Performance Considering Inversions
A rise of the OAT during climb-out at an inversion layer does happen often. Whenever there is a condition that the engines are operating at or close to the maximum flat rated temperature, a temperature rise leads to a loss of thrust. This can be in a range of 8-12% for a rise of 10°K (...)
Position Paper IFALPA: Weather Radar
There are multiple weather hazards that can be identified by a weather radar, e.g. thunderstorms, towering cumulus clouds, cumulonimbus clouds, clouds with potential icing, windshear. There is no plausible justification for an aircraft to be exposed to such hazards if it is carrying only crew and no passengers (...)
Position Paper IFALPA: Unapproved Techniques
It has been discovered that in past events, Operators have introduced techniques which were not in agreement with the Manufacturer’s recommendations. In one example, the NTSB determined1 "that the probable cause of this accident was the in-flight separation of the vertical stabilizer as a result of the loads beyond ultimate design that were created by the first officer’s unnecessary and excessive rudder pedal inputs (...)
Position Paper IFALPA: Preflight Checks
Thorough preflight checks are crucial for flight safety to eliminate possible threats. The list given by ICAO covers significant items, but it is missing two essential subjects: The purity of fuel and the cover of pitot tubes and static ports.
Position paper: Individual Flotation Devices
Some Regulators allow seat cushions instead of life vests as individual flotation devices. This includes takeoffs and landings at coastal or near-coastal airports. When in water, especially when cold or turbulent, it is much more difficult to hold on to a cushion for an extended period than to keep floating with a life vest.
Position Paper IFALPA: Safety in the event of a Failed or Released Propeller Blade
There have been several accidents which serve to illustrate the safety threat posed by a failed or released propeller blade. Some examples are listed below. No certification standards currently address this safety threat.