After every flight,
pilots fill out a form called a gripe sheet, which
conveys to the mechanics
problems encountered with the aircraft
during the flight that need repair or
correction.
The mechanics read and correct the problem, and then respond
in
writing on what action was taken. Never let it be said that ground crews
and
engineers lack a sense of humor.
Here are some actual logged
maintenance complaints and problems as
submitted by Qantas pilots and the
solution recorded by maintenance engineers.
By the way, Qantas is the only
major airline that has never had an accident.
(P = The problem logged by
the pilot.)
(S = The solution and action taken by the
engineers.)
_________________________________________________________
P:
Left inside main tire almost needs
replacement.
S: Almost replaced left inside
main tire.
P: Test flight OK, except auto-land very
rough.
S: Auto-land not installed on this
aircraft.
P: Something loose in
cockpit.
S: Something tightened in
cockpit.
P: Dead bugs on windshield.
S:
Live bugs on backorder.
P: Autopilot in altitude-hold mode produces a 200
feet per minute descent.
S: Cannot reproduce
problem on ground.
P: Evidence of leak on right main landing
gear.
S: Evidence removed.
P: DME
volume unbelievably loud.
S: DME volume set to
more believable level.
P: Friction locks cause throttle levers to
stick.
S: That's what they're there
for.
P: IFF inoperative.
S: IFF always
inoperative in OFF mode.
P: Suspected crack in
windshield.
S: Suspect you're right.
P:
Number 3 engine missing.
S: Engine found on
right wing after brief search.
P: Aircraft handles
funny.
S: Aircraft warned to straighten up,
fly right, and be serious.
P: Target radar
hums.
S: Reprogrammed target radar with
lyrics.
P: Mouse in cockpit.
S: Cat
installed.
P: Noise coming from under instrument panel. Sounds like a
midget pounding on something with a hammer.
S:
Took hammer away from midget.