Here are some actual logged maintenance complaints and problems, known as submitted by QANTAS* pilots and the solution recorded by maintenance engineers. By the way, Qantas is the only major airline that has never had an accident.

(*Note: I’ve also seen this joke attributed to the USAF)

P = The problem logged by the pilot.

S = The solution and action taken by the engineers.

*********************************************************************************

P: Left inside main tire almost needs replacement.

S: Almost replaced left inside main tire.

P: Test flight OK, except autoland very rough.

S: Autoland not installed on this aircraft.

P: No. 2 Propeller seeping prop fluid.

S: No. 2 propeller seepage normal. Nos. 1, 3, and 4 propellers lack normal seepage.

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-fpm descent.

S: Cannot reproduce problem on ground.

P: Evidence of leak on right main landing gear.

S: Evidence removed.

P: DME volume unbelievably loud.

S: DME volume set to more believable level.

P: Friction locks cause throttle levers to stick.

S: That’s what they’re there for!

P: IFF inoperative.

S: IFF always inoperative in OFF mode.

P: Suspected crack on windshield.

S: Suspect you’re 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 words.

P: Mouse in cockpit.

S: Cat installed.

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