General aviation flying during exceptionally hot weather

With temperatures set to exceed 35°C across much of the UK this week, pilots are reminded of the effect of higher ambient temperatures on general aviation aircraft operations and performance. Below are links to useful information in various CAA publications.

• SSL 09: Weight, Balance and Performance and the Pre-Flight Preparation chapter of the Skyway Code have information on aircraft mass, balance and performance and special focus on calculating aircraft take-off and landing performance.
• Moving map devices are vulnerable to overheating when exposed to direct sunlight in the cockpit. Screen brightness may also need increasing. Ensure you mitigate the risk of airspace infringement in the event of experiencing difficulties with your device; read more in SSL 29: VFR Moving Map Devices.
• SSL 24: Pilot Health and Performance provides human factors considerations for operations in extreme temperatures.