Documents, Equipment and Preflight Action

Two mnemonics carry most of this material. ARROW lists the documents that must be in the aircraft: the Airworthiness certificate, Registration certificate, Radio station license (for international flights), Operating limitations (the flight manual and placards), and Weight and balance data. ATOMATOFLAMES lists the minimum equipment for day VFR — airspeed indicator, tachometer, oil pressure and temperature gauges, altimeter, fuel gauge, anti-collision lights, magnetic compass, ELT, seatbelts, and a few items specific to certain aircraft — and night VFR adds FLAPS: spare fuses, a landing light if flying for hire, anti-collision and position lights, and a source of electrical power. Beyond equipment, the regulations require preflight action: the pilot in command must review runway lengths and takeoff and landing distance data for every flight, and — for IFR flights or flights away from the airport vicinity — weather reports and forecasts, fuel requirements, alternatives, and known traffic delays.