In 2003, mechanical and maintenance were the major cause of 15% of all GA accidents, and 7.5% of fatal accidents

Typically, one mistake or failure—a precipitating event—leads to another in a cascading series of malfunctions and mistakes, culminatiing in an accident. This is called the accident chain.

By any calculation, the average pilot could fly many, many lifetimes without having an accident of any sort, let alone a much more rare fatal mishap.

In 2003, electrical/ignition failures accounted for 3% of all accidents, and 0% of fatal accidents.

2004 Nall Report

  
 

CIRRUS Monthly Proficiency Program
3 part series on IFR operations
August – Part 1: Electrical Systems



Alt Indications (continued)

TIP: Get into the habit of reading the feedback on your displays. Take a moment to think through your options in case you see an abnormality.

ALT 2 Failure

  • ALT 1 indications
  • 40-45 amps, approx.
  • ALT 2 indications
  • Zero amps
  • Voltage
  • 28 volts

Flying in IMC conditions with an electrical abnormality
Flying in IMC is demanding; dealing with an abnormality drastically increases a pilot’s workload. The CIRRUS airplane’s redundant electrical systems drastically reduce the potential for increased workload. During any in-flight emergency, always follow these basic steps:

 

• Maintain airplane control (autopilot should be utilized)
• Analyze the situation
• Consult the appropriate checklist
• Take appropriate action
• Land as soon as practical or possible, depending upon the nature of the emergency.

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