H.A.S.E.L.L. CHECKS

Prior to commencing any manoeuvre, such as steep turns, stalls, spins, spiral dives, etc., pilots should carry out a series of checks. For these checks we use the standard mnemonic; “HASELL”.

HASELL is an acronym for:

• Height
• Airframe
• Security
• Engine
• Location
• Lookout

The purpose of HASELL is to promote safety and it serves us as a memory aid ensuring we don’t skip any important items before the flight exercise begins.

HEIGHT

This is to ensure we have enough altitude, height above ground level, to safely and easily recover from a stall before getting too close to ground.

A minimum of 2,000 ft AGL is required, although many flight instructors will suggest more so as to allow for recovery well above the ground.

AIRFRAME

We ensure our airframe is free of ice and that we are in the correct configuration (flaps/gear).

SECURITY

Ensure that seat belts/harnesses are securely fastened and all items including baggage are properly stowed. During unusual flight attitudes loose items may bounce around.

ENGINE

Check engine temperatures and pressures. Ensure that mixture is rich and turn carb heat on for a few seconds in order to clear any potential icing in the carburettor. Also, turn on the fuel pump.

LOCATION

We break location down into A, B, C and D.

• Active Airfields
• Built Up Areas
• Clouds and Controlled Airspaces
• Danger Areas

LOOKOUT

We then perform the clearing turns while looking out and scanning our surrounding airspace for any other traffic that could potentially present danger. The clearing turns can be either 2x90º or 1x180º.