Pre-flight checks are essential to detect any hidden failure before the flight. Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for A300, A310, A330, A340-200, A340-300, and certain A320 family aircraft require the flight crew to test the alternate braking system before the first flight of the day, or after a change of flight crew. This article explains why failing to perform the pre-flight check may prevent the detection of a hidden failure of the alternate braking system. It also includes maintenance recommendations for troubleshooting when the flight crew reports the failure of an alternate braking test.
