Down To Earth Safety

It may be a few years before you own your own flying motorcycle, but we thought we’d share a few of the Rules of the Air printed in Australian Aviation—quotes from pioneers of the airplane.

Every takeoff is optional. Every landing is mandatory. The ONLY time you have too much fuel is when you're on fire.

When in doubt, hold on to your altitude. No-one has ever collided with the sky.

A 'good' landing is one from which you can walk away. A 'great' landing is one after which they can use the plane again.

Never let an aircraft take you somewhere your brain didn't get to five minutes earlier.

Stay out of clouds. The silver lining everyone keeps talking about might be another airplane going in the opposite direction. Reliable sources also report that mountains have been known to hide out in clouds.

There are three simple rules for making a smooth landing. Unfortunately no one knows what they are.

You start with a bag full of luck and an empty bag of experience. The trick is to fill the bag of experience before you empty the bag of luck.

Good judgment comes from experience. Unfortunately, the experience usually comes from bad judgment.

Remember, gravity is not just a good idea. It's the law. And it's not subject to repeal.