Peter “Pete” Killcommons has practiced medicine for about three decades. He currently serves as the CEO of MedWeb, a company that develops medical software and devices. Peter Killcommons also volunteers as a disaster relief pilot, flying to different parts of the world.
A relief flight refers to a humanitarian effort involving flying to and rescuing people from the point of disaster and providing the necessary materials like medicine, clothing, water, and food to survive such catastrophes. However, in coordinating a disaster relief flight, there are specific best practices that pilots should observe.
At least two pilots must operate every relief flight. Working with two pilots reduces the workload that a single pilot would have had to bear.
Similarly, only experienced pilots should be allowed to fly disaster relief planes. This is important because most disaster relief planes are usually subject to adverse conditions, which means that the pilot must be able to navigate some of the most difficult flying conditions effortlessly.
The plane ought to have enough fuel to execute its mission successfully. Most disaster areas often have fuel shortages; therefore, it is very unlikely for the plane to refuel when it runs out of fuel.
Just as adequate provision must be made for fuel shortages, there must be sufficient provision for aircraft spare parts. The plane must contain every necessary resource used to make repairs in instances of damage.
Peter Killcommons 