Four Airmen sit in chairs filling out paperwork while a female Airman looks on.
Airmen assigned to the 92d Air Refueling Wing receive Individual Protective Equipment as part of Exercise Global Thunder 26 at Fairchild Air Force Base, WA, Oct. 21, 2025. Global Thunder is an annual command and control exercise designed to train U.S. Strategic Command forces and assess joint operational readiness. USAF photo by SrA Samantha Thorn

Planning Ahead for Safe Flying

By Lt col ERIC WOLF, Chief, AMC Flight Safety Division

Flying safely starts long before you enter the plane. Safety is a lifestyle, a mindset that permeates every aspect of a pilot’s preparation. This commitment to safety begins long before arriving at the airfield and is built on a foundation of physical well-being, rigorous mental preparation, and meticulous planning.

Physical and Mental Readiness

A pilot’s body and mind are their most critical assets. Prioritizing proper sleep is nonnegotiable; a well-rested pilot is an alert and decisive one. Complementing this practice is a disciplined diet that provides sustained energy, avoiding the peaks and valleys that can come from sugary or processed foods. Regular exercise builds the stamina and resilience needed to handle the physical and mental stressors of flight.

Knowledge and Proficiency

Beyond physical health, mental sharpness is paramount. This practice is honed through the continuous study of aircraft systems, emergency procedures, and regulations. A key practice is to “chair fly,” or mentally rehearse every step of the flight, from startup to shutdown. This visualization builds procedural memory and helps anticipate potential contingencies. Furthermore, actively seeking counsel from more-experienced members provides invaluable insight and mentorship, accelerating learning and reinforcing a culture of safety.

Mission and Situational Awareness

Effective mission execution hinges on a deep understanding of the mission’s priorities and a realistic assessment of the proficiency of the crew. This shared understanding is forged during a good, thought-out pre-mission brief. A thorough brief is essential, as it is the forum where the entire crew aligns on objectives, individual roles, and contingency plans, ensuring everyone is on the same page before wheels are up. Finally, a critical component of any brief is a comprehensive weather review beforehand. Understanding the forecast and potential hazards and having solid contingency plans are critical steps in mitigating risks and ensuring a safe and successful operation.