Approaching an Aircraft Carrier: The Art of Landing Permission Request

When it comes to landing on an aircraft carrier, the process can vary depending on several factors, including whether it's a military or civilian vessel. Whether your mission is routine or in an emergency, proper communication and coordination are key to a smooth landing procedure.

Military Aircraft Landing on an Aircraft Carrier

For military vessels, including aircraft carriers, landing operations on the flight deck or helipad are common. However, strict adherence to safety protocols is mandatory. The process involves:

Mission briefings Command approval Scheduling Manifesting

The naval crew expects your arrival and may deactivate some electronic counter-measures just prior to your landing. This is especially true if your helicopter is relatively immune to Electromagnetic Interference (EMI).

Emergency Situations

In an emergency scenario, prior coordination might be limited or non-existent. If you need to land on the nearest suitable ship to avoid ditching into the ocean, you should:

Contact the ship's crew via radio on 156.8 MHz, the International Maritime Distress frequency. Use the Guard frequencies if your radio doesn't support 156.8 MHz. These frequencies are 121.5 MHz for civilian use and 243.0 MHz for military use.

Note: Both 121.5 MHz and 243.0 MHz are generally line-of-sight frequencies and should be a last resort for non-emergency situations. There are clear channels above and below both frequencies to prevent interference.

Risks and Preparations

In emergencies, additional risks and preparations are necessary:

Crew perception: The crew might view your unidentified aircraft as a potential threat, leading to actions such as using rifles or machine guns. You can expect to be under lock and key after landing. Alternative method: If your aircraft is in a critical state, you can fly near the ship to get attention, then ditch the aircraft into the sea. The crew is expected to stop engines and render assistance.

These situations require extreme caution and quick thinking, making it a high-adventure endeavor.

Conclusion

Landing on an aircraft carrier involves a myriad of procedures and protocols. Whether it's routine or in an emergency, clear communication and preparation are crucial. Understanding these processes helps ensure a safe and smooth operation, turning flying over large bodies of water into a thrilling adventure.

Photo courtesy of Boat International.