Challenger Cross-Check Initiative

In 2004 there were two unfortunate Challenger accidents caused by ill-advised modifications or maintenance omissions. In one case an owner modified the elevator control horns and pushrods in such a way that the loads on the system were greatly increased while at the same time the strength of the system was dramatically reduced. The end result was the pushrods broke in flight. In the other case an owner adjusted the rudder pedals and then didn't safety wire the turnbuckles afterwards. The end result was that one turnbuckle unscrewed itself and the rudder cable detached during flight.

Both these accidents were easily avoidable via the simple disciplines of (a) not modifying the design of the aircraft, and (b) being meticulous about fully completing maintenance tasks before flying the aircraft. Human nature being what it is though owners can inadvertently render even a safe, proven aircraft like the Challenger unfit for flight.

Less dramatic, but no less threatening in the long run, normal wear and tear can easily be missed by preflight inspections if the operator is rushed by the desire to get airborne or dulled by a sense of routine "nothing is ever amiss".

So what might be a simple strategy for success in improving safety?

A number of Challenger owners have come up with quite a good answer:

Simply stated, the Cross-Check Initiative encourages all owners to periodically have another knowledgeable person inspect their aircraft even though this is not required by the regs. If you make even a small change to your airplane, whether nonroutine or routine, review it with a knowledgeable person. And to combat complacency, periodically get together with a buddy and do each other's preflights. See what they find that you missed - you'll be surprised!

The cross-check is a great way to get fresh eyes for fresh perspectives - practise this rigourously and encourage fellow owners and pilots to do the same. Commit to listen to the other person's views and commit to rectify issues before the next flight. There are no fees to pay or memberships - just do it!

This initiative has the full support of the Canadian Challenger Owners Association, the Canadian Owners and Pilots Association and the Ultralight Pilots Association of Canada. It has garnered positive comments from safety experts at Transport Canada as well as from numerous aircraft owners and pilots. The life you save may be your own!