CASA media release - Monday 18 June 2007
Winter flying - beware the dangers
General aviation pilots are being reminded of the importance of being prepared for winter flying.
Less daylight hours, low temperatures and unpredictable weather can all be potential threats to safe flying in general aviation aircraft.
In Eastern Australia weather patterns have returned to more normal winter conditions, with higher rainfall, strong winds, ice and snow.
In general aviation aircraft these conditions can lead to carburettor icing, airframe icing and the need for diversions to avoid bad weather.
The latest edition of CASA's flagship safety publication - Flight Safety Australia magazine - examines the risks of winter flying in detail.
In a series of articles Flight Safety Australia says while the risks are clearly highest when flying in the mountainous areas of NSW, Victoria and Tasmania, pilots need to plan for winter conditions right across the southern half of Australia.
"Generally it is best to plan your flight a few days in advance," Flight Safety Australia says.
"Watch the progress of the weather pattern along your route for a few days before your flight.
"Aim to be on the ground at least an hour before the end of daylight, unless you have the appropriate training and experience under your belt."
Unexpected bad weather is a real risk, so pilots must update weather in-flight and be ready to divert from the planned route.
"Have an escape route planned. Don't fly yourself into a situation where you have no alternatives but to look below you for a scrap of land to head for."
Flight Safety Australia analyses an accident at Mt Hotham in Victoria two years ago as part of the focus on winter flying.
Media contact:
Peter Gibson
mobile 0419 296 446
Ref: MR0739