Cockpit Checklists
These are used to quickly check important items at critical stages in the flight to ensure that nothing is missed. Usally some sort of mnemonic is used to promote retention. A common pre-takeoff checklist is CISTRSC:
Controls - free to move.
Instruments - indicating properly.
Straps - pilots and passengers secure.
Trim - glider trimmed for anticipated towing attitude/speed.
Release - operational.
Spoilers and Flaps - operational and in safe takeoff positions.
Canopy - closed and locked.
A common pre-landing checklist done in the downwind leg of the circuit is SWAFTS:
Straps - secure for both pilots and passengers.
Wheel and Water - wheel down and locked water ballast dumped.
Airspeed and Trim - flight attitude trimmed for the appropriate approach speed.
Flaps - operational and set as required.
Traffic - checks for circuit traffic and runway obstructions.
Spoilers - operational
In flight, pilots may elect to do manouevers that may cause significant loss of altitude such as stalls or spins. A common pre-manouever checklist is CALL:
Cockpit - no loose articles, canopy, and shoulder harness secure.
Altitude - sufficient for the manouever.
Location - not overhead the airfield or other built up areas.
Lookout - clearing 'S' turns to check for other traffic.
It is important for the last item that an 'S' turn be done particularly with gliders. Continuous circling has flaws with regards to aircraft that may engage in formation flying and is an informal signal to other gliders that there may be thermal lift activity. The 'S' turn is a definite signal to stay away.