AMC AERO CLUB SAFETY CERTIFICATE
By STAFF WRITER
DOVER AIR FORCE BASE AERO CLUB
DOVER AFB, DE
DOVER AIR FORCE BASE (AFB) AERO CLUB, Dover AFB, DE has won the Air Mobility Command Aero Club Safety Certificate. Extremely active with more than 1,800 hours of mishap-free flying in 2023, Dover Aero Club’s flying members include eight flight instructors, one ground instructor, and 95 student pilots. Twelve students obtained new pilot certification while six gained certification above private pilot. Their safety record reflects professionalism and determination to serve the base and community. Multiple safety inspections of their flight safety program—twice by the 436th Airlift Wing, Dover AFB, DE, and twice by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)—resulted in zero findings.
The Club is intensely focused on safety in day-to-day operations. As a Part 141 Flight Training center, students are required to complete their in-depth training under an approved FAA syllabus with daily operations closely monitored by the FAA, resulting in quicker certifications and safer pilots.
Operational Risk Management (ORM) is used in daily operations and long-term strategic planning. For example, ORM was used to develop crosswind and heat index limitations for student pilots. The Advanced Aviation Training Device (Simulator) allows students to experience weather and system malfunctions that cannot be experienced safely in an aircraft. Instructors use assessment tools to determine the level of risk for students while flying.
The Chief Flight Instructor, who is also an FAA certified Aviation Safety Counselor, has responsibilities extending beyond the Aero Club into the community, including counseling pilots identified by the FAA for unsafe practices.
Aero Club Safety meetings are open to the public in conjunction with the FAA Safety Program.