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FLSC Ground Operations

FLSC Ground Operations

Operations Manager

  • Must be on field at 9:00am to get ready for 9:30 first launch. Towpilots – 9:00 too.
  • Find OPS notebook – get fresh OPS log, cash receipt log & towplane log
  • Make sure hand-held VHF radios are charged and ready
  • Refile ETF cards
  • Organize members to pull aircraft out of hangar before 9:30AM (what if only 1 available?)
  • Confer with tow pilot and instructor(s) on operational conditions, active runway, etc
  • Organize aircraft tie-downs (into wind, canopies down & latched) & the launch queue (tails towards fence)
  • Select wing runners & towplane monitors – review their responsibilities
  • Set priorities for training flights, check-rides, regular member flights, & commercial rides
  • Keep the launch queue moving (make sure pilots & instructors are ready to launch) (delays cost gas & allow fewer flights)
  • Keep children & spectactors off the runways & launch queue.
  • Make sure landing gliders are quickly cleared from the active runway(s) (instructor debriefing student on runway)
  • Supervise return of aircraft to hangar
  • Mail OPS log, cash receipt log & towplane log to treasurer
  • Fill out glider logbooks
  • Your job is to organize & direct others
  • Be tactful, but assertive
  • VERY IMPORTANT JOB – CRITICAL TO SAFETY, AS WELL AS ALLOWING EVERYONE A CHANCE TO FLY
  • If you cannot make assigned day, it is your responsibility to get coverage. Notify Secretary of swap.
  • No-show problem (Board is planning to crack down)

 

Ground Tug Operation

  • Constantly check for obstacles
  • Make sure speed is not too fast for wing person
  • Tie-down into wind
  • Launch queue – tails toward fence
  • High-wind operation
  • Make sure canopy is down & latched, speed brakes open & tail dolly removed
  • Dismounting
    • Always shut down engine
    • If walking away, always disconnect glider
  • Always cross active runways at 90 degrees (better visibility up & down runway; minimum crossing time)

 

Operational Issues

  • Picnic table talk-fest
  • Everyone needs to pay attention to ongoing operations & volunteer to help (especially inexperienced Operations Manager)