OPTIMUM WIND-OVEN-DECK FOR SHIPBOARD RECOVERY OPERATIONS WITH CARRIER BASED AIRPLANES

Abstract

A study was made of the effect of airflow disturbance aft of the ramp and in the landing area on the pilot's ability make a precise carrier final approach and landing. Tests conducted on board USS MIDWAY (CVA-41), USS RANGER (CVA-61), USS CORAL SEA (CVA-43) and USS SARATOGA (CVA-60) determined that, from the pilot's viewpoint, a Wind-Over-Deck (WOD) of 25 kt for jet and 15 kt for propeller airplanes is optimum. The determination of an optimum WOD was predicated upon operational feasibility as well as pilot considerations. A 25 kt WOD, in comparison with a 35 kt WOD, accrued the following advantages for jet airplanes: Less demanding on the pilot; reduction in landing gear loads; improved approach airspeed control; less deviation in alignment; and increased jet recovery flexibility. The increased closure rate of a reduced WOD resulted in the following disadvantages: Earlier wave-off initiation; slightly degraded landing dispersion; and increased bolter rate. Based on arresting gear and/or airplane limits, fleet capability for utilizing a reduced WOD was determined.

Open PDF

Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Jun 21, 1962
Accession Number
AD0281862

Entities

People

  • N. A. Castruccio
  • R. M. Decker

Organizations

  • Naval Air Station Patuxent River

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Air Platforms

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Aircraft Carriers
  • Aircrafts
  • Airplanes
  • Arresting Gear
  • Carrier Landings
  • Data Analysis
  • Engineering
  • Flight Decks
  • Glide Slope
  • Jet Aircraft
  • Landing Gear
  • Navy
  • Ships
  • Statistical Analysis
  • Surveys
  • Test And Evaluation
  • Wind Direction

Readers

  • Aviation Science / Aeronautics.
  • Naval Architecture and Marine Engineering.
  • Systems Analysis and Design