PA-28 Cherokee/Archer/Dakota/Pillan/Warrior
Flight Crew Multiengine; Flight Crew Instrument; Flight Crew Commercial
Flight Crew Last 90 Days 35; Flight Crew Total 260; Flight Crew Type 6
Situational Awareness
Conflict Airborne Conflict
Flight Crew Took Evasive Action
Human Factors; Airspace Structure
While entering the local practice area; clearing turns were being performed prior to maneuvering. During one clearing turn; another aircraft was seen above and to the side. I continued the turn and entered a descent to remain clear of the other aircraft. The other aircraft was flying straight and level; and I do not know if it was in the practice area maneuvering or passing through; it appeared to be flying straight and level when I first saw it. A system such as ADS-B would be beneficial to avoid this situation in the future. As the aircraft was initially obscured by the wing during the first clearing turn; it was only during the second turn that it could be seen. Having ADS-B or a similar system provide alerts in all directions; even blind spots; would be hugely beneficial in ensuring a clear area; in addition to visual scanning and clearing turns. Furthermore; an established practice area frequency and reporting points would ensure separation of aircraft maneuvering in the practice area. Multiple schools use the same area; at the same time; so coordination prior to flight is currently difficult. Speaking to each school about using a common frequency and performing regular callouts would greatly increase the safety of the practice area. I do not know if the other aircraft was a training flight; or an aircraft passing through; which would be more difficult to coordinate with. The importance of clearing turns and correct visual scan is evident for me; in performing those actions; a potential conflict was avoided.
PA28 pilot cites the importance of clearing turns for avoiding conflicting traffic in the practice area and suggests that ADS-B and a common frequency would make it even safer.