Douglas,
Yes, you do need to be able to fly the aircraft and look out without having to pick up and read the checklist for everything.
Use the Checklist as a QRH for Abnormal and Emergency situations.
But for everyday flying when on the move, here are three mnemonics that I have used on a number of aircraft for 40 plus years.
Pre Take OFF
TTMPFHAC
Trim... Set
Throttle Friction Nut.... Set
Mixture...Rich
Propellor...Fully Forward
Fuel Pumps and Tank..... On and correct tanks selected
Flaps..... As required
Hatches and Harness.... Locked and Secure
Altimeter.... Set
Controls.... Full & Free movement
Approaching Airfield
FEDRA
Fuel Pumps and Tank... On and correct tanks selected
Engine Instruments.... Check
DI.... Check and align
Radio Call.... Make
Altimeter..... Set
Downwind
BUMPFH
Brakes.... Off
Undercarriage.....Down Three Greens
Mixture... Rich
Props... Fully Forward
Fuel Pumps... On
Hatches and Harness... Locked and Secure
I know that not all aircraft have retractable gear or variable pitch props, and I no longer have a DI but I learnt these a long time ago and apply them to all light aircraft.
Enjoy your flying
BD
Last edited by beerdrinker; 8th Aug 2010 at 18:49.