There are several checklists pilots can use to mitigate risk when flying. One them is the GRABCARD checklist. The GRABCARD checklist is used by a pilot to ensure that the aircraft is equipped with all required equipment for IFR.

Generator or alternator

Generators and/or alternators are engine-driven power sources that generate, regulate, and distribute electrical current to the electrical system for inflight operations. They also maintain the battery charge. They are important for instrument flight because they power lights and sometimes instruments.

Rate of turn indicator

The rate of turn indicator senses change in the attitude of an aircraft is used by pilots in instrument flight to see the direction and rate of turn. The turn indicator indicates the number of degrees of heading change per unit of time (usually measured in seconds). A standard rate turn is accomplished at three degrees per second which results in a 180 degree course reversal in one minute, or a complete 360 degree circle in two minutes.

Attitude Indicator

The attitude indicator provides the orientation of the aircraft relative to the miniature horizon. In actual IFR conditions you are unable to refer to the actual horizon using visual cues, so the attitude indicator serves as your visual reference as to the orientation of the aircraft.

Ball (inclinometer)

The inclinometer is included on both the traditional turn and slip indicator as well as the turn coordinator. The inclinometer has a slight curve to it and contains a ball which indicates how coordinated - or not - the aircraft is. In a perfect world, the ball is kept between two lines to ensure coordinated flight.

Clock

Certain approaches require you to be able to time them. At times during IFR there is no way to judge distance over the ground, and so distance must be measured using time.

Altimeter

An altimeter indicates the altitude of the aircraft above a fixed level. There are various types of altitude. An altimeter is required for VFR and IFR flight.

Radio/navigation system

A radio navigation aid is a facility or system external to the ground that generates signals used by aircraft navigation systems for position determination and flight path guidance. Radio navigation aids supply the pilot with information that enhances and maintains the safety of flight.

Directional gyro

A directional gyro, also known as a heading indicator (HI) is a flight instrument that indicates to the pilot what direction the aircraft is heading, and is used as a navigation aid.

Ensuring an aircraft is airworthy is very important as a pilot. The GRABCARD checklist serves as a useful memory aid in ensuring all legal requirements are met for the safe operation of an aircraft during IFR.

Commit the GRABCARD checklist to memory. It will prove useful to you whether you simply fly recreationally on occasion, or have a career in aviation.

By Engine Sales Representative, Joshua Denton