ASOG Article of the Month | December 2022
ASOG Author | Derrick Brydges
Derrick gives some GREAT advice to non-rated or Airborne Sensor Operators who are new to the career field or junior operators looking for best practices. Specifically, he speaks to the basics of crew flying that he had to learn while operating for over thirty years as an Aerial Powerline Patrolman.
Over my long career of flying with many other flyers in different aircraft and environments worldwide, I’ve learned a few things that I would like to share with you that I think will be very helpful in your professional efforts. I know for a fact my does & don’ts (below) have kept me safe & employed for many years. I’m sure these principles will continue to keep me going for many more years.
So, if you’re interested, here are my “Does & Don’ts” I practice every time I step on the helipad or Flightline:
Does:
- Put it Away - Leave the ego & attitude behind before beginning the workday.
- Communicate – Communicate effectively with team members. It could make the difference between life & death, i.e., a paramount “Do.”
- Pacing - If the operator or pilot becomes fatigued, take a break to relax the senses, i.e., not being alert will negate the safety and effectiveness of the aerial scan.
- Corporate - On a 2-man team, offer to assist with the beginning and end of day tasks, e.g., moving aircraft, helping with preflight, refueling, and postflight activities, etc.
- Eat and Drink Properly - Eat well and stay hydrated throughout every project, i.e., during every flight, between multiple flights, and during trips away from home base.
Don’ts:
- Assume - As an ASO working in an aircraft, don’t believe you’re a pilot, e.g., assuming weather, fuel status, etc.
- Become Unorganized - As an ASO, one may have to perform various daily tasks. Along with capturing field data, the data should be filed and organized at the end of each day. On large projects, the “personal memory chip” can become overloaded; hence organized data files are easier to review during future finalizations of reports. If not, unorganized data files can lead to a long day and fatigue, which can wear on the mind and body. When required, take the proper time to organize the data, as having to “re-fly” a circuit is inefficient.
Comments
Another good read. Thanks Derrick Brydges