Finding yourself locked out of your plane is frustrating, to say the least. The good news is, there are several steps you can take to get back inside and into the air.
Ideally, every pilot should have access to a spare key, but if this is not the case for you, there are other options available. Two of these options are more time-consuming and costly, while one only requires an hour or two of your time.
Regaining Access When Locked Out of Your Plane
How you regain access to your Miami aircraft is mostly dependent on the model of the plane.
Most aircraft doors are fitted with small pin and tumbler cylinder locks, which aren’t impossible to pick, but only if you know what you’re doing. Many light plants also use wafer tumblers, which are easy enough to bump with a key should you need to gain access.
Wondering what lock bumping is? Find out more here.
Let’s move onto the options for regaining access to your plane.
Contact a Reputable Locksmith
I have placed this as the first option because it makes the most sense. Tampering with the lock on your plane when you have little to no experience can leave you with more damage and further costs.
A reputable locksmith has all the necessary tools and experience to get you back in the sky sooner than if you attempted to pick the lock yourself. They can also provide you with a new set of keys. What’s more, locksmiths such as Quickly Locksmith are available 24/7, ensuring you can regain access whenever you need to.
Keep in mind that when you contact a locksmith, you will need to provide proof of plane ownership.
Contacting a locksmith is by far the most sensible, speedy, and affordable option.
Pick the Lock
If you can’t afford to wait and aren’t concerned about property damage, you can use a non-matching key or flat-head screwdriver to break the pins within the cylinder lock. If you’re dealing with a larger lock, you might want to grab a pair of pliers too.
If you’re dealing with a non-pressurized aircraft, you may also be able to apply force to the locking mechanism in an effort to deform the door. This allows the latch to exit the frame.
The only time you won’t be able to pick a lock or force a door open is if you’re dealing with the door between the cockpit and the passenger cabin. This would require power tools, which is extreme and will cause costly damage.
Call the Regional Service Center
The final option is to contact your plane’s regional service center. Not only can they get you back into your plane but provide you with a replacement key too. The only downside is that contacting a regional service center tends to be more costly, especially if they’re not close to your location. Contacting a local locksmith will get you the same result, but generally at a lower rate.
If you ever find yourself locked out of your plane in Miami, contact Quickly Locksmith on (305) 984-9922 – we’re available 24/7.
