HUD Review & NVG; Reading the signs and becoming one with the Darkness for Flight Docs

Col Eric D, KendleArizona Air National Guard

What is it?

Why do we do it?

How it gets done

Reg Guidance

What to Look for

What to Listen for

How it helps

3.2. G-Awareness Exercise. Conduct all G-awareness exercises IAW AFI 11-2MDS Volume 3, MAJCOM supplements, AFTTP 3-3.MDS, and/or established local procedures.

3.2.1. As a minimum, conduct a G-awareness exercise:

3.2.1.1. For aircraft requiring a G-suit, anytime aircrew plan or are likely to maneuver above five Gs during the mission.

3.2.1.2. For aircraft not requiring a G-suit, anytime aircrew plan or are likely to maneuver above four Gs during the mission.

3.2.2. Maintain a minimum of 6,000 feet between aircraft during the G-awareness exercises.

3.14.5.1. (PACAF) The G-awareness maneuver will consist of at least two 90 degree turns. (The second turn of the g-awareness exercise for air-to-air sorties will be a minimum of 180 degrees of turn). The first turn will be a smooth onset rate to approximately 4 Gs. Pilots will use this turn to ensure proper g-suit operation and to practice their anti-g straining maneuver. Regain airspeed and perform another 90 degree turn at up to 6-7 Gs. If aircraft limits preclude either of the above, turns should be performed so as not to exceed aircraft limits. Do not perform systems checks or other items that detract from the intended purpose of the G-awareness maneuver.

3.14.5.2. A G-awareness maneuver will be accomplished prior to any tactical maneuvering, including range missions. Accomplish this maneuver in day or night VMC only.

3.14.5.3. G-awareness exercises will be filmed in HUD and in Hot Mic. In addition, the tactical portion of all basic missions (BFM, SA, ACM, etc) will be flown in Hot Mic to enable assessment of the AGSM. For high task sorties (DACT, Composite Force, Opposed SAT, etc), it is highly desired for pilots to fly in Hot Mic.

Centrifuge Initial Training

G’s In Flight

Beeper Vs. G’s

What you see

How they Look / Feel

How NVGs work

When to use them.

Neck issues

Fitting and Function

Check and Double Check

Smooth and Secure

Heavy; NVGs are heavy and can cause significant muscle strain over time

Also muscle tension headaches and even Trapezius/shoulder pain

Pre Flight Fitting

Pre Flight Adjustment and Testing in Dark Room

Bracket placement adjustment

In Flight Placement and adjustment required

Ensure width is appropriate

Focus much like binoculars

Keep extra battery handy

Keep flashlight available

Cockpit is a small environment and can be difficult to learn anything that is not practiced pre flight.

Seat height and head movements are more limited

Cockpit lighting issues and NVG.

Remove before landing.