In this detailed safety seminar, DPE and CFI Seth Lake walks pilots through an enhanced preflight inspection process—going beyond the surface-level checks most pilots perform. Using real NTSB accidents from Arkansas, Seth highlights how minor oversights—like frayed throttle cables, loose spark plugs, or degraded exhaust components—can result in catastrophic failures.
You'll learn practical, actionable techniques to integrate deeper inspections into your routine, including:
How to test your autopilot and detect early signs of control cable issues
Why checking static RPM on takeoff matters
A simple method for detecting exhaust leaks using soapy water
What to look for under the cowl—fire sleeves, linkages, baffling, and more
Fuel system checks, selector testing, and collapsed bladder detection
Critical brake, nose gear, and wiring issues pilots often miss
When and how to do a proper mag check and fuel selector shutoff test
🔧 Designed for renters, owners, and CFIs alike, this seminar will help you build a smarter monthly inspection routine that can catch hidden risks early.
📎 BONUS: Includes discussion of checklist accuracy, placard requirements, and how STCs affect airworthiness.
🛠️ Don't just walk around—dig deeper. Risk is always present, but better habits can minimize it.
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Chapters:
00:00 Introduction to Enhanced Pre-Flight Inspection
02:47 Analyzing Past Accidents for Learning
06:08 The Importance of Thorough Pre-Flight Checks
09:01 Autopilot and Control Cable Inspections
11:57 Engine Checks: RPM and Exhaust Leak Tests
15:13 Critical Components: Carburetor and Linkages
18:05 Fire Safety and Engine Baffling
20:56 Final Thoughts on Pre-Flight Inspections
25:18 The Importance of Enhanced Pre-Flight Inspections
29:12 Fuel System Checks and Common Issues
32:33 Overlooked Areas in Aircraft Maintenance
36:49 Panel Blind Spots and Electrical Safety
40:41 Final Thoughts on Safety and Maintenance Practices