What is the importance of the "checkerboard" in the CRJ cockpit?

The "checkerboard" in the CRJ cockpit serves a crucial role in enhancing pilot situational awareness by visually checking airspeeds and configurations before takeoff and landing. This visual aid allows pilots to quickly verify that the aircraft is set up correctly for different phases of flight, ensuring that all necessary parameters such as flaps, gear position, and thrust settings are in the optimal range for safe operations.

By referencing the checkerboard, pilots can confirm that they have configured the aircraft in accordance with standard operating procedures. This is particularly important during critical phases of flight like takeoff and landing, where precise airspeeds and configurations are vital to safety and performance. Additionally, using the checkerboard helps reinforce standardization in cockpit procedures among crews, minimizing the chances of oversight and contributing to overall flight safety.