On Apr 29, 8:59*pm, Michael wrote:
Hi all,

My checkride is a long way off, but this evening I read the PTS for
Gliders for the first time. *I noticed this section:

"Use of Distractions During Practical Tests
Numerous studies indicate that many accidents have occurred when the
pilot has been distracted during critical phases of flight. To
evaluate the applicant’s ability to utilize proper control technique
while dividing attention both inside and/or outside the cockpit, the
examiner shall cause a realistic distraction during the flight portion
of the practical test to evaluate the applicant’s ability to divide
attention while maintaining safe flight."

Obviously, the Examiner isn't going to do anything dangerous, but what
sorts of distractions have people encountered? *It is obvious when the
distraction occurs....or is it something subtle?

--Michael

Let's see: Once in an airplane, he dropped his pencil and asked me
to pick it up. Once in a glider she tried to talk me into flying
further away from the airport than was safe by saying something ot the
effect of "let's go work that thermal way over there." Once in a
gider he popped open the airbrakes and then said "hey, what does this
do"

Look for stuff like that. Actually, the big thing is to remember that
you are in charge and that if he/she asks you to do something that you
aren't comfortable with, just say NO and offer to talk to them about
it once you are on the ground. You'll do fine.

dave