Appendix F

APPENDIX F

BIRDSTRIKE/EMERGENCIES

a. Birdstrikes

Birdstrikes can occur in virtually any stage of the flight. The most common times are

during takeoffs, landings, approaches, and low-levels. When birds hear the high pitch sounds

of approaching jet engines, they instinctively tuck their wings and dive. The "birdstrike

zone," where birds pose the most danger, is the area between 11 o'clock and 1 o'clock, from

slightly above the horizon to 30 above the horizon. If a bird is seen in this zone, call it

immediately followed by position using clock code (e.g., "Bird, 1 o'clock!"). The pilot will

then initiate action to avoid the bird. Clock codes are essential so the pilot will be able to

immediately acquire the bird visually. If you see a bird not in the birdstrike zone, don't say

anything.

If a birdstrike does occur, it usually will not cause any major problems. In the event a

bird is ingested into one of the engines, noises from the engine or a visual check may indicate

the need to shut down the engine. If the radome is struck, it could shatter requiring a reduced

airspeed. The windshield though, is the primary danger area.

If the windshield does break, the cockpit will become extremely noisy from windblast

making cockpit communication difficult, and there is the possibility the pilot or PNF/CP will be

incapacitated. If this should occur, the remaining crewmember must positively direct the aircraft

away from the ground. Select MRT and climb away from the ground using no greater than 30

nose-up attitude to avoid stalling the A/C. Monitor altitude and airspeed continuously. Climb to

at least 5000 feet AGL and assess the situation. Consider engaging the auto-pilot once leveled

off to minimize task saturation of the crew. The mission will terminate and the flight will

immediately return to base when a birdstrike of any kind occurs.

b. Lost Aircraft

The standard for maintaining course on a low-level is + 2 nm. If the aircraft becomes

lost, follow these procedures:

(1)

Climb to an appropriate VFR altitude.

(2)

Fix the position of the aircraft either visually or with a NAVAID fix.

(3) Expect to reenter the route at an alternate entry point (fuel permitting) or

discontinue training.

(4)

If aircraft position cannot be determined, execute lost plane procedures.

c. Lost Plane Procedures

(1)

Climb

(2)

Confess

(3)

Communicate

F-1