Pilots of aerobatic planes must now check their canopy before every flight

The US aviation regulator proposes a new rule for a specific type of aerobatic airplane. Pilots will need to check their canopy is fully locked before every flight, and their flight manuals will be updated.

This rule change means pilots of these planes must add a specific safety check to their pre-flight routine. It also means the manufacturer must update all existing flight manuals. The change is a direct response to canopies opening or detaching mid-flight.