Case Studies
Situation
A flight school training department experienced an aircraft accident caused by an aircraft operating overweight with incorrect takeoff and landing distance calculations (due to a simple math error).
The Aviation Code of Federal Regulations (CFR 91.103 "Preflight Action") requires each flight to have accurately completed these routine calculations. However, in the process of preparing for the training flight, this data can be over looked or rushed as the flight is focused more upon the specific training event.
A process was needed to quickly and accurately calculate the aircraft's weight and balance along with the takeoff and landing distances based upon the aircraft performance without consuming precious time or interfering with the preparation of the mission.
Microsoft Access Database Solution
The aircraft dispatcher is primarily responsible for release the aircraft to the flight crew members. Prior to the release, aircraft maintenance records are reviewed to confirm the aircraft is in compliance with all F.A.A. required maintenance directives.
It was decided by the client that the responsibility of calculating the aircraft weight and balance and takeoff/landing distances would be integrated with dispatch department duties. During the development process, it was learned that all maintenance records were documented on paper with no electronic/database tracking. This method also had an opportunity for producing human error, and the project incorporated the maintenance schedules into the database application for automated calculations. The flight crew only had to review the work produced by their dispatcher with the help of Microsoft Access.
| Access 2007-2010 | Access 2003 | Access 2000 |
|---|---|---|
| Cessna | Cessna | Cessna |
Right click on the Cessna link appropriate for the version of Microsoft Office installed on your computer. Some versions of Window's will require the user to right click on the database file and select Properties and Unblock the security option on the General tab (below the Attribute area).