These safety warning flags, typically bright red and bearing the instruction to be removed prior to takeoff, serve a critical role in aviation safety. They are attached to various components of an aircraft, such as pitot tubes, control locks, and covers, to indicate that these parts need to be detached or deactivated before the plane is cleared for flight. For example, a pitot tube, which measures airspeed, might be covered to prevent insects or debris from entering during ground operations. The attached streamer ensures the cover’s removal before flight, allowing the instrument to function correctly.
Their presence and subsequent removal are crucial for ensuring the aircraft is airworthy. Forgetting to remove these safety devices can have serious consequences, potentially leading to malfunction or even catastrophic failure. These streamers provide a highly visible, last-minute check, adding an extra layer of safety to pre-flight procedures. This practice likely evolved alongside the increasing complexity of aircraft, providing a simple yet effective visual cue amid a growing checklist of pre-flight tasks.
