What is PAVE Aviation?

PAVE in aviation refers to a crucial preflight planning and risk assessment checklist used by pilots. It stands for Pilot-in-command (PIC), Aircraft, enVironment, and External pressures. This framework is an integral part of a pilot's decision-making process, helping to systematically identify and mitigate potential risks before and during a flight.

By incorporating the PAVE checklist into preflight planning, the pilot divides the risks of flight into these four fundamental categories. This structured approach ensures a comprehensive evaluation of various factors that could impact flight safety and success.

Understanding the PAVE Checklist Components

The PAVE checklist provides a systematic way for pilots to assess potential hazards. Each category prompts the pilot to consider specific factors relevant to that area, ensuring a thorough pre-flight evaluation.

Pilot-in-Command (PIC)

This category focuses on the pilot's readiness to fly. It's about self-assessment and ensuring the pilot is physically and mentally fit for the flight.

• Factors to Consider:
  • I'M SAFE Checklist:
    • Illness: Am I feeling unwell?
    • Medication: Am I taking any medications that could impair my judgment or abilities?
    • Stress: Am I under unusual psychological pressure?
    • Alcohol: Have I consumed alcohol within the last 8-24 hours or am I under the influence?
    • Fatigue: Am I adequately rested?
    • Emotion: Am I emotionally prepared for the flight?
  • Recent flight experience and proficiency.
  • Familiarity with the aircraft and route.

Aircraft

This element assesses the airworthiness and suitability of the aircraft for the intended flight.

• Factors to Consider:
  • AROW G Checklist: Ensuring required documents are on board (Airworthiness Certificate, Registration Certificate, Operating Limitations, Weight and Balance, GPS (if applicable)).
  • Maintenance status and recent inspections.
  • Fuel quantity and type.
  • Performance capabilities for the planned mission (e.g., takeoff/landing distances, climb rate).
  • Equipment functionality (e.g., navigation systems, radios, lights).
  • Weight and balance limitations.

enVironment

The environment covers all aspects of the operational context, including weather, terrain, and airspace.

• Factors to Consider:
  • Weather:
    • Forecasts along the route and at destination/alternate airports (METARs, TAFs, PIREPs).
    • Winds aloft, icing conditions, turbulence, thunderstorms.
    • Visibility, cloud ceilings.
  • Airports: Runway conditions, available services, NOTAMs (Notices to Airmen).
  • Terrain: Obstacles, elevation, and potential emergency landing sites.
  • Airspace: Classification, restrictions, and special use airspace along the route.

External Pressures

These are external factors that might influence a pilot's decisions, often leading to rushed or unsafe choices. Recognizing these pressures is key to mitigating their impact.

• Common Examples:
  • "Get-there-itis": The desire to complete the flight regardless of adverse conditions.
  • Passenger expectations or impatience.
  • Desire to impress others.
  • Organizational or scheduling pressures.
  • Personal life issues or distractions.
  • Financial considerations.

Practical Application of PAVE

Pilots typically use the PAVE checklist mentally or with a written aid during their preflight planning. It serves as a structured method for risk management, encouraging pilots to think critically about potential hazards and develop contingency plans.

Here's how PAVE can be applied practically:

1. Prior to Flight: Before even going to the airport, mentally review each PAVE category based on available information (weather forecasts, aircraft status, personal readiness).
2. During Preflight Inspection: While physically inspecting the aircraft and reviewing documents, continue to assess the 'Aircraft' and 'Environment' components.
3. Before Takeoff: A final PAVE review ensures that no critical factor has changed or been overlooked.
4. In-Flight: While primarily a preflight tool, the principles of PAVE can be applied in-flight if conditions change, requiring a dynamic re-evaluation of risks.

By systematically addressing each PAVE component, pilots enhance their situational awareness and make informed decisions, significantly contributing to flight safety.