4 ms·
>The problem is that your attention isn't riveted on the mirrors at all times. This is mitigated by what pilots call their "scan" or "flow" (I've heard both te
by AceyMan 8y ago
>The problem is that your attention isn't riveted on the mirrors at all times.
This is mitigated by what pilots call their "scan" or "flow" (I've heard both terms).
Pilots follow a visual path around the instruments to ensure they refresh their awareness of critical values and system states (airspeed, ascent rate, engine parameters, etc.) at appropriate intervals¹.
I argue that drivers should have a similar flow to maintain constant situational awareness, and side mirrors are a key element in such a pattern.
I also have a pre-drive checklist that I call the "Six Ls" —
Lights (obvi), Locks (obvi) , Levels (fuel, oil press, electrical supply, etc.), Laps (seat belts), Load (cargo secured?), Loud (radio down/pax calm).
/Acey
¹—With automatic alerting in modern planes this arguably is not strictly needed, but pilots start in small, simple planes before moving up the tech stack and it's a good practice at any level.
- kazinator 8y agoHow much does the roster of what pilots are constantly scanning have to do with what is happening to the rear of the airplane's path of travel? Pilots don't have the problem of a child jumping into their path from between parked cars. They can fly blind in a complete fog, by instruments. In a car, your attention should be mostly toward the front. The rear action deserves attention, but not a lot; just a glance every few seconds. There are times in driving when what is happening rearward is very important and deserves a lot of attention; it's generally good to keep those to a minimum.