Field Carrier Landing Practice (FCLP)
Carrier Qualification
NOTE: If at any time the LSO goes NORDO, the tower will take charge of the pattern until the problem can
be resolved.
BALL CALL
As you roll into the groove with a ball, communicate the following: side number, type aircraft, you see the
meatball, fuel state, and qual number.
NOTE: If you do not have the meatball in sight after rolling into the groove, immediately call “Clara.” The
LSO will respond with calls, such as, “You’re high” or “You’re low.” Follow the LSO’s calls. Once you have
sight of the ball, call “ball.”
CAUTION: Never descend below 300 ft AGL without a ball.
RADIO DIFFICULTIES IN THE PATTERN
If your receiver operates but your transmitter does not, the LSO may elect to work your aircraft in the
pattern. If a receiver failure occurs while you’re in the pattern, rock your wings and expect to perform a
full-stop landing on the next pass. Momentary (2 seconds) cut lights on the ball the first time signal “Roger
ball.” Subsequent momentary illumination of cut lights means “add power.” Alternating cut and waveoff
lights signal you to proceed to your prebriefed divert field.
*
In all cases, remember: “Aviate, navigate, communicate.”
NIGHT FCLP
Night FCLP serves two important purposes. Ball control demands intensified concentration (because no
other adequate visual references exist). It also demonstrates the need for smooth, precise instrument
flying in the pattern. No more than 6 aircraft will be allowed in the night FCLP pattern. You will receive a
thorough briefing, including local course rules, prior to night FCLP.
LIGHTING
Night field lighting used at the FCLP field is the same as for night familiarization except that the wheels
watch high intensity light is extinguished.
Two types of field lighting are used for night FCLP: the permanent carrier deck (Figure 14), which closely
resembles actual flight deck lighting.
(7-01) Original
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