What Would Happen if an Airplane Attempted to Land on an Aircraft Carrier Without Landing Gear?
When it comes to landing on an aircraft carrier, precise procedures and clearance are absolutely essential. If an airplane were to attempt a landing without landing gear and without the proper clearance, the outcome could be disastrous. The carrier would either shoot down the aircraft before it poses a significant risk, or if given clearance, the pilot would likely be instructed to avoid the aircraft carrier entirely.
Procedures and Precautions
With the safety of the carrier and its crew in mind, any airplane trying to land without landing gear would face severe consequences. Before attempting to land, the pilot would need to weigh the risks. Abandoning the aircraft and ejecting the pilot is not the best option as it would result in a total loss of the plane and the potential for injury to the pilot. A soft landing or a normal approach is always preferred, and a nice dry deck offers the best chance of a successful landing.
The Role of the Barricade
Fortunately, the aircraft carrier is equipped with various safety measures designed to handle emergencies. One such measure is the crash barricade. If an airplane without landing gear attempts to land, the pilot could be instructed to rig the crash barricade. This barricade has proven its value by assisting aircraft with landing gear troubles. For example, in a video, an F/A-18C Hornet used the barricade after its nose gear became hung up.
The barricade can be used with all landing gear extended. However, it's more common to use it when the aircraft has landing gear issues. Despite its effectiveness, relying on the barricade with all gears up is generally not the preferred method, as it can delay operations and potentially foul the deck, causing a traffic jam for other incoming aircraft in need of a landing. In such cases, more experienced pilots or air traffic control would advise the pilot to ditch the aircraft and wait for a helicopter pickup.
The Role of the Air Boss
The decision-making process is ultimately in the hands of the Air Boss, who oversees all incoming and outgoing operations. If the carrier is in a high-traffic zone with other aircraft enroute, the Air Boss may instruct the pilot to choose the safest option, which is typically to ditch the aircraft and wait for rescue. The Air Boss will make the best decision based on the operational and safety considerations at the time.
It is crucial to remember that every situation is unique, and the carrier is equipped with multiple layers of safety measures to ensure the smooth operation and safety of all personnel and aircraft. In the end, it is always better to play it safe and avoid landing on an aircraft carrier without the proper gear and clearance.