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Safety Hub
Safety messages and practical flying reminders from the Kapiti Aero Club safety team.
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Fuel Bowser Displays
CAA has recently highlighted a change to BP fuel bowsers that is catching some pilots out. The dollar amount is now shown large at the top of the display, with the number of litres below in a smaller font.
Ground Ops8 October 20261 min read
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17 articles in Ground Ops
Ground Ops8 October 20261 min read
Fuel Bowser Displays
CAA has recently highlighted a change to BP fuel bowsers that is catching some pilots out. The dollar amount is now shown large at the top of the display, with the number of litres below in a smaller font.
Ground Ops8 May 20261 min read
A Dropped Dipstick Is Runway FOD
A dipstick left on a wing once fell onto the runway during take-off – always account for it; it belongs only in your hand or in the aircraft.
Ground Ops24 April 20262 min read
Securing Aircraft on the Ground
Secure parked aircraft against wind: hangar first, then fixed tie-downs, otherwise a crossover picket kit with ropes led outboard and forward.
Ground Ops20 February 20261 min read
Engine Run-Up Etiquette on Taxiway Charlie
Point prop wash at the grass during run-ups on Taxiway Charlie, take only half the taxiway, and use the Western apron if space is tight.
Ground Ops30 January 20261 min read
Keep the Dipstick in Your Hand or the Aircraft
When refuelling, the dipstick should only ever be in your hand or back in the aircraft – never on a wing, cowling or fuel trailer.
Ground Ops19 September 20251 min read
Return Equipment and Keep the Apron Clear
Apron safety is shared – look out for anything out of place and return towbars, tie-downs and other equipment as soon as you've finished with them.
Ground Ops12 September 20252 min read
Tie-Down Techniques for Windy Conditions
Before windy weather, review how to secure parked aircraft: hangar or fixed tie-downs first, otherwise a crossover picket kit hammered in front of the wing.
Ground Ops1 August 20251 min read
Hang Up Tie-Downs When Not in Use
Don't leave tie-downs on the ground – they're a trip hazard and can damage aircraft or vehicles; hang them on the fence beside the flight line.
Ground Ops25 July 20251 min read
Keep the Baggage Compartment Tidy
Return covers and gear to their proper place after every flight – a messy baggage compartment causes wear, safety risks, lost items and costs for the club.
Ground Ops16 May 20251 min read
Apron Habits That Keep Everyone Safe
Walk behind aircraft, never push one in front of a running aircraft, start up pointing somewhere safe with the beacon on, keep passengers close and pick up loose items.
Ground Ops10 April 20251 min read
Make Sure Airside Gates Latch Shut
Check airside gates fully close and latch behind you – re-enter the PIN if needed – to keep the apron secure from unauthorised access.
Ground Ops27 February 20251 min read
Start Up in a Safe Position and Direction
Before start-up, check the aircraft is positioned and pointed so its exhaust won't blow into hangars, other aircraft or other sensitive areas.
Ground Ops3 January 20251 min read
Keep Aircraft Clean and Free of FOD
Inspect the aircraft after every flight, remove rubbish and loose items, and leave it clean and secure for the next pilot.
Ground Ops21 November 20241 min read
Point Your Prop Wash Away During Run-Ups
During run-ups on Taxiway Charlie, point the prop wash at the grass, use only half the taxiway, and move to the Western apron if there isn't room.
Ground Ops27 September 20241 min read
Push and Pull Aircraft the Right Way
Push on the inner propeller near the hub (never the spinner), use both hands on the towbar, and always disconnect the towbar when it isn't in your hand.