Landmark Accidents; Aspen Arrival

While reading the article, I first noticed an error chain forming before take-off. The crew knew that they needed to be off the ground by a certain time in order to make it to Aspen before dark. Leaving 45 minutes late was the first sign for me in the error chain since both pilots knew they couldn't land after dark. The biggest contributing factor I feel in this case was the pilots unwillingness to stand up to the customer. The pushiness of the customer to get to his location seemed to have rubbed off on the flight crew by their desire not to go missed. I feel they should have just went on to their alternate airport, because of all the other flights before them that had went missed. If I was ever in that situation I would tell the customer that their desires are not worth my life and the lives of everyone on board including their own. Hopefully that would help them see the bigger picture.

Single Pilot IFR

Before reading the article on single pilot IFR, I felt that for the first few times of actual IFR flying I would like an experienced pilot with me. After reading the article I still feel the same way. The one reason I feel that way is, I am not sure how I will react to being in the clouds for the first time. I know it will be quite different then hood flying and the author of the article even stated that.

The best tip I got from the article was to be prepared and stay ahead of the aircraft at all times if possible. If things get to crazy inform ATC and try to regroup by entering a hold our slowing down if the situation allows.