After every flight, pilots fill out a form, called a “gripe sheet” which tells mechanics about problems with the aircraft. The mechanics correct the problems; document their repairs on the form, and then pilots review the gripe sheets before the next flight.
P=Pilot S=Service Engineer
P: Left inside main tire almost needs replacement...S: Almost replaced left inside main tire.
P: Test flight OK, except auto-land very rough.... S: Auto-land not installed on this aircraft.
P: Something loose in cockpit...S: Something tightened in cockpit.
P: Autopilot in altitude-hold mode produces a 200 feet per minute descent...S: Cannot reproduce the problem on the ground.
P: Friction locks cause throttle levers to stick...S: That’s what they’re for
P: Number 3 engine missing...S: Engine found on right wing after brief search.
P: Aircraft handles funny...S: Aircraft warned to straighten up, fly right, and be serious