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SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/sport-imsafe-stress

In the IMSAFE pilot checklist, what does the 'S' stand for?

Stress.

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  1. Speed
  2. Stress ✔
  3. Sleep

Why: IMSAFE stands for Illness, Medication, Stress, Alcohol, Fatigue and Emotion. Pilots run through it before flying to judge whether they are physically and mentally ready.

Huh, didn't know that: IMSAFE is one of the tools the FAA recommends for a single pilot to reduce risk before flight.

The dad joke
The pilot said, 'I'm safe.' The checklist said, 'Prove it.'
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References

Answer: Stress. IMSAFE stands for Illness, Medication, Stress, Alcohol, Fatigue and Emotion. Pilots run through it before flying to judge whether they are physically and mentally ready.

  1. FAA PHAK Chapter 2: Aeronautical Decision-Making www.faa.gov/sites/faa.gov/files/04_phak_ch2.pdf
    use the IMSAFE checklist to determine physical and mental readiness for flying
    Checked 2026-10-10.
  2. FAA AIM 8-1-1 Fitness For Flight www.faa.gov/air_traffic/publications/atpubs/aim_html/chap8_section_1.html
    I'm physically and mentally safe to fly; not being impaired by:
    Checked 2026-10-10.

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