Weather and Environmental Factors

Question 1

What are the visibility and cloud clearance minimums?

Answer 1

It changes with service guidance: Minimums are 3sm visibility with 1000’vertical separation and 1sm horizontal separation.

Question 2

What is the maximum time that we may fly over a broken or overcast layer?

Answer 2

Per 95-1 we are limited to 30 minutes over a broken or overcast layer. The 30 minutes limit if for the purposes of vacating the bkn/ovc area or RTB.

Question 3

How would you recognize sever turbulence?

Answer 3

Severe turbulence is manifested by abrupt changes in altitude or attitude AND large variations in indicated airspeed, pitch fluctuations in excess of +/- 5 degrees from the AV’s cruise pitch attitude (Usually ~ 2 degrees)

Question 4

What actions should the AC take if sever turbulence is encountered?

Answer 4

Increase the AS to 70kts, restrict bank anglesto less than 15 degrees, and move to a different location. Avoid mountainous terrain if possible. Fly on the windward side of ridges. SUBMIT A PIREP!

Question 5

If AV is unable to hold altitude and the engines are not showing any indication of under performance or failure, what is the likely cause?

Answer 5

AV could be encountering strong downdrafts or structural icing. Potential culprits are cumulus clouds above aircraft or mountain wave turbulence. Move to a different area.

Question 6

What criteria compels us to be SOD (Safe on deck) 1 hours before a significant weather event?

Answer 6

Visibility or Winds forecast to be outside limitations for greater than 60 percent of the planned mission.

Question 7

What is the minimum distance for observed or reported lighting for:

1) AV Operations
2) GCS Operations
3) Ground Operations
4) Fueling

Answer 7

1) AV Operations = 25 NM
2) GCS Operations = 5 NM
3) Ground operations = 5 NM
4) Fueling = 5 NM

Question 8

When should stingers be stowed?

Answer 8

Must be stowed if wind is forecast or observed to exceed 35 kts and when no aircraft is airborne.