ATM NVG considerations

Question 1

NVG considerations for Perform Terrain Flight:

Answer 1

• When wearing NVG’s, the P* will not exceed 40 KCAS when flying at or below 25ft AHO. Between 25-80ft AHO, the P* will not exceed 70 KCAS. Above 80ft AHO, the P* may use any airspeed up to VNE.
• Wires are difficult to detect with NVG’s
• Use proper scanning techniques to ensure obstacle avoidance.
• During NVG terrain flight, observe the NVG speed and altitude restrictions in TC 3-04.11.

Question 2

NVG considerations for Perform Slope Operations:

Answer 2

• When conducting slope operations, select reference points to determine slope angles.
• When performing operations during unaided night flight, ensure that the searchlight is in the desired position. Use of the white light may impair night vision; therefore, exercise caution if resuming flight before reaching full dark adaptation.

Question 3

NVG Considerations for VMC Approach:

Answer 3

• The rate of descent during the final 100 ft should be slightly less than during the day to avoid abrupt attitude changes and low altitudes.
• After starting descent while unaided, reduce airspeed until apparent rate of closure/ground speed appear to be increasing.
• Before descending below obstacles, determine need for artificial light.
• Use proper scanning to avoid Spatial D.
• While unaided, ensure the searchlight/landing light is in desired position. If not, white light could impair night vision.

Question 4

VMC approach confined area considerations:

Answer 4

• Before commencing the approach, the crew will determine and brief an escape route in case a go-around is necessary.
• An approach one-third of the usable landing area will reduce the approach angle and minimize PWR requirements.
• During the approach, continue to determine the suitability of the area. If possible, make the decision for a go-around before descending below the barriers or going below ETL.
• The parking brake should be set before landing on unimproved areas where the surface slopes.
• After touchdown, check aircraft stability as the thrust control is lowered.

Question 5

NVG considerations for Perform External (sling) load(s) Operations:

Answer 5

• For unaided flight, one landing/searchlight will be unfiltered white light.
• When NVG are used, hovering with minimum drift is difficult and requires proper scanning techniques and crew coordination. If possible, use an area with adequate ground contrast and reference points. Visual obstacles, such as shadows, should be treated the same as physical obstacles.
• The rate of descent and rate of closure should be slightly slower to avoid abrupt attitude changes at low altitudes.
• The NCM calling the load should wear NVG during external load operations. The NCM will notify the PC any time he must flip up the NVG. White lighting, such as flashlight or searchlight, may be used as necessary to view the hooks or load.

Question 6

NVG considerations for Perform a Roll-On Landing:

Answer 6

-Altitude, apparent ground speed, and rate of closure are difficult to estimate when making an approach to an area of limited contrast at night. The P* will determine the need for artificial lighting and rate of descent at night during the final 100 feet should be slightly slower than during the day to avoid abrupt attitude changes at low altitudes.