How to Stay Cool During Summer Flying

We've had a couple of scorchers on the East Coast lately - and the heat will stay on until late in the fall. It's important for pilots to know how to stay cool and comfortable in the summer heat.

Take pre-flight precautions.

If possible, keep your aircraft covered or in the hangar until you're ready for takeoff. Schedule your flying time for morning or evening, if possible. If you're going to "quick turn" an airplane after you land, open the cowl to help heat escape.

Make sure you're physically prepared.

Make sure you're not getting into your cockpit already overheated. If you've been outdoors working on your aircraft, take time to go inside, hydrate and cool down. Drink water before (not just during) your flight. Avoid caffeinated drinks which can increase your risk of dehydration. And eat a light meal so you're not feeling heavy and weighed-down during your flight.

Dress for hot weather.

Wear loose, light-colored clothing. If the first part of the day is cool, wear layers. Remember, a cool morning on the ground can quickly turn into a hot day in the skies. Don't forget a hat or sunglasses to help keep the sun out of your eyes.

Pack your flight bag accordingly.

Bring along at least one bottle of water and sip often. Protip: pack an extra bottle filled with ice that will slowly melt over the course of your flight. This will provide cool, refreshing water but can also be used as an ice pack to help cool you down. Apply it to your forehead, wrists and the nape of your neck for instant refreshment.

Wear sunscreen.

The higher your elevation, the closer you are to the sun's damaging rays. Sun damage puts you at higher risk of melanoma, age spots, and wrinkles. Keep any exposed skin protected with a layer of SPF 40 or higher, and reapply after every 2 hours for maximum effectiveness.

If you have AC, use it!

This might be a no-brainer, but remember to turn your AC on as soon as you get into the aircraft. Don't wait until you're already overheating!

Put electronics in the back seat.

Your iPad and headset can overheat in just a few minutes if left on the dash. Store them in the shady backseat during layovers and fuel stops to keep them cool.

Watch out for summer thunderstorms.

Airmass thunderstorms form almost daily all over the US. In most cases, if you fly earlier in the day, you're less likely to encounter thunderstorms. But keep an eye out for areas of low pressure and fronts.

Here are the telltale signs of thunderstorms and severe weather:

• Humidity above roughly 50% and/or a temperature and dew-point spread within 5 degrees F.
• Winds aloft blowing from the direction of a body of water, adding moisture to the air.
• A high-pressure system with colder-than-standard air aloft.
• Indication of a strong jet stream above your route of flight.
• Winds blowing upslope, especially in mountains.
• Unstable air, indicated by a negative number on the Lifted Index (ask your weather briefer).
• Widespread pilot reports of turbulence and/or building cumulus clouds.
• PIREPs or METARs indicating hail of any size.
• Local media reports of expected severe weather.

Know the signs of heat exhaustion.

If you start to feel dizzy, nauseous, fatigued, develop a headache, or feel like you might lose consciousness, make a plan to land as soon as possible.

Keep all of these tips in mind for a cooler, more comfortable flight. And talk to your instructor about changing your procedures for hot weather flying - the differences may surprise you!