After every flight, pilots fill out a form called a gripe sheet, which conveys to the mechanics problems encountered with the aircraft during the
flight that need repair or correction.
The mechanics read and correct the problem, and then respond in writing on the lower half of the gripe sheet what remedial action was taken. The pilot
then previews the form before the next flight.
Never let it be said that ground crews and engineers lack a sense of humour.
Here are some actual logged maintenance complaints and problems as submitted by pilots and solutions recorded by the engineers.
(P = the problem logged by the pilot S = the solution and action taken by the mechanics)
P: Left inside main tyre 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: Dead bugs on windshield
S: Live bugs on backorder
P: Autopilot in altitude-hold mode produces a 200 feet per minute descent
S: Cannot reproduce problem on ground
P: Evidence of leak on main landing gear.
S: Evidence removed
P: DME volume unbelievably loud
S: DME volume set to a more believable level
P: Friction locks cause throttle levers to stick
S: That is what they're there for!
P: IFF inoperative
S: IFF always inoperative in OFF mode
P: Suspected crack in windshield
S: Suspect you are right
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.
P: Target radar hums
S: Reprogrammed target radar with lyrics
P: Mouse in cockpit
S: Cat installed
P: Noise coming out from under the instrument panel. Sounds like a midget pounding on something with a hammer.
S: Took hammer away from midget.
