Operational Procedures
What the exam tests
Operational Procedures covers pre-flight preparation, mass and balance, fuel, normal and emergency checklists, MEL usage, TCAS, EGPWS, oxygen, icing, runway incursion avoidance and security procedures.
Core rules
- Pre-flight action includes weather, NOTAM, performance, fuel, mass and balance, and aircraft serviceability.
- Emergency memory items are performed first; the checklist is then used to confirm and complete the drill.
- A rejected take-off is normally initiated before V1; after V1, continue unless the aircraft is incapable of flight.
- TCAS traffic advisories and resolution advisories require prompt response; follow the RA unless it conflicts with a safer immediate action.
- Sterile flight deck rules apply during taxi, take-off and landing; non-essential conversation stops.
Worked example
During take-off, a loud bang is heard and the aircraft yaws before V1. Reasoning: before V1 there is sufficient runway to stop, so reject the take-off, reduce thrust, maintain directional control and brake. After V1, the decision changes: continue, because stopping may overrun the runway. The key is the V1 call, not the noise alone.
Traps
Continuing a take-off after V1 for a non-catastrophic fault; skipping memory items; using an MEL item without the required conditions; allowing distraction during taxi; ignoring EGPWS warnings.