> [!note] From Jack > While not the only way, here is how I prefer to checkout a new aircraft. > [!tip] > Checkout flights could be structured to cover [[WINGS - Pilot Proficiency Program|WINGS]] activities, and later used as part of a [[~ WINGS Flight Review]]. ## General Approach ### Ground Work Before First Flight - [ ] Read [[POH]] for this aircraft and its avionics - [ ] Create initial [[Gait Chart]] based on [[POH]] to be confirmed in first few flights - [ ] Set up [[ForeFlight]] profile and glide info^[[ForeFlight equipment codes](https://support.foreflight.com/hc/en-us/articles/360049193173-ICAO-Equipment-and-PBN-Code-Setup-Guide) may be useful] - [ ] Complete ground review form with school - [ ] Purchase, find, or create a checklist you plan to use ### First Flight - [ ] Find an instructor knowledgeable in the aircraft and set up a lesson - [ ] Practice all stages of flight and [[PPL.D Suggestions for Solo Flight Practice|maneuvers]] - [ ] Note parts of the checklist and areas of your [[Gait Chart]] that should be updated ### After First Flight - [ ] Review ground form with instructor - [ ] Practice avionics and/or aircraft in sim, if able ### Subsequent Flights with Instructor - [ ] Use and improve your checklists/gaits - [ ] Practice all emergencies, especially procedures different from planes you already know - [ ] Practice instrument procedures, if applicable - [ ] Your instructor will tell you when they feel you're ready to fly on your own, depending on the complexity of the aircraft ### Subsequent Flights without Instructor - [ ] Practice with all avionics and their features on the ground - [ ] Practice all [[PPL.D Suggestions for Solo Flight Practice|private]] (and [[CPL.C Ideas for Solo Commercial Practice|commercial]], if you know them) maneuvers to develop proficiency at various speeds/attitudes - [ ] File and fly [[IFR]], even in [[VMC]], if applicable - [ ] Fly many full stop patterns, until able to consistently meet ACS standards ## Suggested Content from [[AC 90-109]] ### (1) Systems: Fuel, Electrical, Hydraulic, Flight control, Landing gear, Ventilation/heating/pressurization, Avionics, Powerplants, Autoflight systems, Flight instruments, Warning systems, Oxygen systems, and Emergency equipment. ### (2) Procedures: Normal, Abnormal, and Emergency. ### (3) Performance: Takeoff and landing, Climb, Cruise, Descent, One-Engine Inoperative (OEI), and Glide. ### (4) Limitations: Weight, CG, V speeds, Kinds of operation, Crosswind, and Landing surface. #todo :: Consider pulling in content from [[AC 90-109]].