APPENDIX I
The following checklist is derived from Normal Procedures, Aircraft Operating Manual -
DC-9 revision 10 (9/4/95). Additions made by this author are indicated in italics.
FINAL COCKPIT PREPARATION
The Final Cockpit Preparation is performed by both crew members in final preparation
for flight. This, in conjunction with the first officer’s preflight inspection previously
described, prepares panels and related components prior to initiating the BEFORE
START checklist.
The captain’s and first officer’s final cockpit preparation procedures are shown below. If
the manner of accomplishment is described in the BEFORE START expanded checklist,
reference is made to the specific item.
INSTRUCTIONS SPECIFIC TO THE CAPTAIN: THE AUTHORITY FIELD
OPTIMIZATION
The final authority over this plane is yours. Should you make a mistake during
the flight, it is imperative, however, that your error is properly monitored and challenged
by the first officer. Sometimes, first officers will not challenge their captain. The
absence of a challenge can make a mistake more serious than it need to be. In italics
you will see inappropriate instructions you are to give in order to test the strength of
your authority. This is the only known way to find out whether your first officer will, in
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