On 16 Dec, 19:19, J a c k wrote:

I think it should, for those with
open minds, describe the importance to professionals of defining the
proper use of check lists and training oneself and others in using
checklists appropriately.

We are in complete agreement, you know. I don't think either of us
would substitute "indiscriminately" for "appropriately", would we?

The best glider pilots I have flown with do use checklists appropriate
to gliders and use them in a manner which enhances the safety and
efficiency of glider operations.

How would you define "best glider pilots" there? I have flown a few
times with a world champion, and he did not ask for any more than the
usual two BGA mnemonics.

When there is only one crew member, no autopilot, and very little that
can possibly go wrong with the ship, what is different but the number of
checklists and their length? Do the principles change? I think not.

That's perhaps a little evasive, since the number and length may
change drastically in such circumstances. But yes, the principal of
"use checklists when appropriate" holds good!

I think one could answer, "Yes", to your question, but only in the most
pedantic sense. You will, upon rereading, perhaps note that I did not
say that there should be a checklist for every action--nor every
consideration--that a pilot undertakes.

We agree there as well.

If a checklist is defined for a given phase of your operation, then use
it--or not, since we are unlikely ever to fly together, or even in the
same area. If I was instructing and/or giving check-rides in gliders I
would require the use of a written checklist for certain aspects of
pre-flight, in-flight, and post-flight operations. You would likely not
be pleased to be in the other seat, but I can live with that.

I'm a bit worried by this "if there is a checklist, use it" approach.
Now that I've told you about the NARSTI checklist for winch cable
breaks, will you always use it?

Please don't get me wrong. I'm not agin' the things - but I am agin'
unquestioning acceptance of anything while flying. Except spin
recovery!

Ian