Chapter 1. Familiarization Stage (FAM)

JOINT ADVANCED MULTI-ENGINE T-44A

CHAPTER 1. FAMILIARIZATION STAGE (FAM)

Introduction. The objective of FAM Stage is to introduce you to multi-engine flight in Visual

100.

Meteorological Conditions (VMC) conditions. You will become familiar with T-44 systems and flight

characteristics under normal and emergency operations. This phase of training instills basic mental and

physical skills necessary to operate a multi-engine military aircraft. You will be introduced to the multi-

piloted cockpit, start to develop command decision-making and crew coordination skills. Successful

completion will result in designation as "safe for solo." Hard work and dedication now will build the

foundation for success as a multi-engine aviator.

If possible, you will be scheduled with the same Instructor Pilot (IP) (On Wing) for the first seven flights.

For the rest of your training, you will be scheduled with any qualified IP. It is advantageous to fly with

different instructors in order to be exposed to different techniques.

Crew Duties. Operating complex aircraft requires coordinated effort from the entire flight crew. Most

101.

instructional flights utilize a Pilot-in-Command (PIC), Copilot (CP), and Observer (OBS). The IP signs for

the aircraft and is always the ultimate authority. However, for training purposes, the student acts as PIC

and the IP as CP. Many duties can be delegated to the CP. It is vital to your success to utilize the CP in the

most effective manner possible. You must direct the CP to perform certain functions; however, this does

not relieve you of your responsibilities as PIC.

102.

See and Avoid. You must never forget you are responsible for looking outside and scanning for traffic.

When operating on an instrument clearance, you are still required to scan for other traffic. The only

separation normally provided by Air Traffic Control (ATC) is between other Instrument Flight Rules (IFR)

traffic. Even at or above flight level 180 (FL180), where all aircraft are required to be IFR, near misses

have occurred between other IFR aircraft and illegal Visual Flight Rules (VFR) aircraft. Even though other

aircraft may be operating legally, never assume you are protected in any airspace. Become intimately

familiar with airspace and operating procedures listed in this manual and keep your head out of the cockpit.

Clearing procedures described in this section must be adhered to at all times. The OBS is also very

valuable in searching for traffic.

NOTE: Whenever reporting other aircraft, utilize the following terminology: "Traffic in sight" or "Negative

contact." Do not utilize "Talley ho" and other such phrases not found in the pilot/controller glossary. Utilize

"Roger" to indicate reception of a transmission, not an "Affirmative" or "Negative" response. Utilize "Wilco" to

indicate reception and compliance.

Preflight Planning. Check current and forecast weather and local area Notice to Airmen (Navy Corpus

103.

Christi/Corpus Christi International (NOTAMS (NGP/CRP)) prior to the brief. Note the runway in use.

Check with the Squadron Duty Office (SDO) for aircraft assignment. If a jacket review is required, bring

your ATJ to the brief. Return the jacket to Student Control before the flight. Obtain a solo brief from the

Runway Duty Officer (RDO) for FAM solos. A NATOPS brief is required for every flight, including hot

seat and mid-period pickup evolutions.

Aircraft Inspection and Acceptance Record (AIA) (OPNAV 4790/14 1). The AIA or "A" sheet provides

for:

(1)

Pilot (P) acceptance of the aircraft in its present condition.

(2)

Certification by maintenance personnel the aircraft is ready for flight and lists fuel, oil, oxygen,

and expendable ordnance on-board.

(3)

Certification by the PIC of assumption of full responsibility for safe operation of the aircraft and

the safety of all personnel aboard.

Read the aircraft logbook and print crewmembers' names/squadron on the back of the "A" sheet. If a

passenger is embarked, list their name/rank/SSN/duty station/activity and debarkation point (if not final

destination of the aircraft). The PIC will review all outstanding discrepancies and corrective action for all

gripes for the last 10 flights. Pay particular attention to pink (outstanding) gripes and verify none are

downing discrepancies. Additionally, note the Daily/Turnaround Inspection Record. Unless the PIC

FAMILIARIZATION STAGE

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