Summer is quickly approaching, which means warmer temperatures and more time in the air. In the aviation industry, it also means making adjustments to aircraft handling due to changes in air density. Any temperature influences aircraft operations, but when it gets hot outside, conditions can change pretty drastically.
In this blog article, we’re going to discuss some pre-flight checks to do on your aircraft before flying in the summertime, as well as some other tips for flying in hot weather and what you should be looking out for. We’ll also share a checklist you can use to make sure your aircraft is prepared for the rising temps.
Pre-Flight Maintenance Tips for Aircraft
There are a lot of precautions you can take with your aircraft before flying in hot temperatures. Here are some hot weather maintenance tips from Boldmethod for how to properly prepare for flight:
- If you’re planning to make a quick turn after landing, make sure you open the cowl and let the engine cool down as soon as you shut it down.
- Before you take off, especially on a hot day, make sure to check the density altitude. This is a key factor in aircraft performance.
- Direct sunlight can overheat your gear, so make sure to stash your electronics in a shaded spot.
- With hot weather comes thunderstorms, so make sure you’re familiar with the criteria for convective SIGMETs.
- Midday heat can make the air choppy, so plan your flights for early morning or later in the evening when the air is calmer and the thermals have settled.
- If you’re planning a longer trip, keep an eye on weather systems like low-pressure areas and frontal boundaries. Both can trigger more widespread thunderstorm development.
Pre-Flight Maintenance Checks for Aircraft
Before you take off, make sure you take proper precautions. Here is a checklist to ensure you don’t miss anything:
Engine & Cooling System
- Check oil level and ensure it is topped off with the correct viscosity for hot temperatures.
- Inspect air inlets, cooling fans, and cowling seals for obstructions or wear.
- Examine baffles for cracks, tears, or loose fittings.
Fuel System
- Check for signs of vapor lock
- Inspect fuel lines and fittings for leaks or soft spots.
- Drain a fuel sample to check for contaminants or water.
- Confirm fuel caps are secure, and vents are unobstructed.
Tires & Landing Gear
- Measure tire pressure when cold and adjust for expansion in heat.
- Look for cracks, dry rot, or uneven wear.
- Check for landing gear struts for proper inflation and fluid levels.
Cabin & Interior
- Test ventilation system and cabin fans.
- Look for sun damage (cracks, warping) on dashboards or control surfaces.
- Ensure windows, doors, and seals are intact to avoid heat-related warping.
Fluids
- Check hydraulic fluid levels and condition.
- Inspect for any leaks in the reservoir or lines.
- Reconfirm oil and fuel system are leak-free.
Flight Controls & Surfaces
- Move all flight controls through full range and feel for any stiffness (heat can cause expansion).
- Verify trim tab operation and security.
- Inspect control surface hinges and linkages for looseness or corrosion.
Learn more about required maintenance for your aircraft in our article about FAA requirements for aircraft component maintenance.
AAI is an FAA Certified and EASA Authorized Repair Station in Georgia
At AAI, we know you want certified parts for your aircraft. Cutting corners or sacrificing quality is not an option. You are responsible for the safety of everyone who boards your aircraft. When you work with us, you’re working with a company that is certified and trustworthy.
We don’t focus on “market” price. Instead, we know the margins we need to operate, which allows us to price transparently and pass saving to the customer. Additionally, we prioritize having a rapid response with customers, so they don’t have to wait any longer than needed to get answers. When you call us, you’ll talk to a real person, never a robot.
Detailed, thorough, and expert work is required to get the job done the right way. At AAI, we know your ultimate goal is to get your plane fixed so you can fly. That’s why we go above and beyond to help you avoid extra costs by creating repairs and manufacturing the parts on your aircraft that are prone to corrosion and wear, like landing gear components.
Aircraft maintenance and overhaul requires quick turnaround times. You don’t want a hangar full of planes propped up on jacks, creating a traffic jam for everyone trying to maneuver around them. AAI completes inspections and repairs in-house so that parts get turned around quickly and you can return your aircraft to normal operation.
Do you have questions about AAI’s process or available parts? Contact us for more information and be sure to sign up for our Frequent Flyers Email Newsletter to get our articles, updates about industry events, and links to our favorite online content delivered right to your inbox every month.