......but towbars, chocks and fuel caps are rarely mentioned on the approved checklist for an aircraft
Not quite though.
The Cirrus pilot's checklists clearly stipulates removal of tiedown rope, tow bar removal and stow, etc.
3. Empennage
a. Tiedown rope_____Remove
7. Right Wing Forward and Main Gear
g. Chocks and Tiedown Ropes______Remove
9. Nose gear, Propeller, and Spinner
a. Tow Bar______________________Remove
Yes, it is elementary, but serves the purpose which is enhance situational awareness.
Had it been the cirrus pilot followed the checklist, the prop-strike could have been avoided.
WP