In about 80% of aircraft accidents, the aircraft itself is working fine until a runway incursion accident, controlled flight into terrain, stalls, spins, or loss of control happens. Through all these situations, there is one very important and common link. That is the pilot.
The pilot is the one in charge of the flight. He or she is the one who – from the moment they climb into the aircraft, until the moment their flight is completed and they climb out – remains the person responsible for the safe operation of that aircraft. From walk-around, to taxi, to flight, to landing, to shutdown and securing the aircraft on the ramp, the pilot in command IS the responsible party.
Everything related to the safe operation of that aircraft in all phases of its operation, must be done with forethought, intelligence, sound judgment, and care. Thus, you are the key to aviation safety!
(MnDOT Aeronautics)
