Flight Deck Procedures
Carrier Qualification
Perform an interior inspection just as you would on shore, but pay extra attention to potential cockpit FOD
such as loose cockpit gauges/HUD. Complete “entering cockpit checklist except ensure aft cockpit ANTI-
SKID switch is set to ON, and forward cockpit ANTI-SKID switch is set to OFF.
CAUTION: Gauges may be loose due to previous impacts of aircraft on the deck during landings, you
must verify that all gauges are secure. Loose gauges can be dangerous during catapult launch.
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Perform the prestart checklist.
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Start the engine when authorized by the yellow shirt; a plane captain (brown shirt) will monitor the
engine start.
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Close the canopy when appropriate.
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Complete the post-start checklist.
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Complete the plane captain’s checks.
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Complete the taxi/takeoff checklist prior to taxiing.
NOTE: The takeoff checklist is the same as for shore-based procedures with emphasis placed on the
following:
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Position the ANTI-SKID switch to OFF.
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Set the stabilator trim to 3 1/2 degrees noseup.
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Check the HOOK BYP switch to CARRIER.
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When ready to taxi, give the “up and ready” call (with gross weight). Ensure there is no one on the
ball.
NOTE: Your oxygen mask must be on whenever you are not chocked and chained.
HOT SEAT PROCEDURES
There may be times when you will man an aircraft that has just landed. Follow these procedures:
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With the aircraft chocked and chained, the outgoing pilot safes the seat, sets the throttle to IDLE with
full friction applied (throttle locked), and sets the parking brake.
CAUTION: Prior to performing hot seat procedures, ensure that the FOD safety screen is
installed over the port engine intake.
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The outgoing pilot verifies that the cockpit switches are left in the proper positions.
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The outgoing pilot unstraps from the seat, extends the seat and leg straps, and opens the canopy on
signal from the plane captain.
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The outgoing pilot exits the aircraft with all personal gear as expeditiously as practical.
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The new pilot enters as quickly as practical.
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