Even the most experienced pilots can have a lapse in judgment which leads to devastating and often fatal results. We’re not talking about pre-flight checks or in-flight emergencies. Today’s discussion revolves around propellers. Let this story of a 62-year-old retired lieutenant colonel in the Air Force who owned a well-regarded bush-flying school remind you that anyone is subject to mistakes around propellers.
Whether you’re a pilot, passenger, or airport employee, you have a responsibility to keep yourself and others safe around aircraft propellers. You know the basics, but we’re reviewing them anyway. It’s easy to let yourself become lax and that’s when mistakes happen.
Pilots
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Never attempt to load or unload an airplane with the engine running.
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Instruct your passengers about which areas to avoid.
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Pay attention to spectators or observers around an aircraft. The noise and excitement may disorient or distract them. Guide unescorted spectators back to restricted areas.
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Pay attention to passengers and other pilots. Experienced staff may become complacent around aircraft and move into propeller danger zones without thinking.
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Always assume the engine is on and could start at any moment.
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Make a habit of avoiding propeller danger zones even after hours when the plane is parked in the hanger.
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Consult a professional about painting contrasting blade-tip stripes on the propeller to increase visibility.
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Ensure all personnel are clear of the rotor blades before starting an engine.
Passengers
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Observe the location of the propellers on any aircraft before you approach it. Many propellers are invisible when they are spinning or in low-light conditions such as at night.
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Don’t touch a propeller even if it’s not spinning. The blades can be sharp.
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Never approach an airplane’s propeller.
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Stay behind the wing when approaching or departing any fixed-wing aircraft.
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Do not approach a helicopter from the back.
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Follow instructions for returning to the terminal when deplaning.
Airport Personnel
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Pay attention to spectators or observers around an aircraft. The noise and excitement may disorient or distract them. Guide unescorted spectators back to restricted areas.
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Pay attention to passengers and other pilots. Experienced staff may become complacent around aircraft and move into propeller danger zones without thinking.
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Always assume the engine is on and could start at any moment.
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Make a habit of avoiding propeller danger zones even after hours when the plane is parked in the hanger.
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Do not walk through airplane operations areas unless your job requires it.
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Never touch a plant’s propeller unless your job requires it.
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Ensure all personnel are clear of the rotor blades before starting an engine.
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Follow through on recurrent safety training to refresh safety protocols.
