Canadian Forces Aircrew Ejection, Descent, and Landing Injuries, 1 January 1975 - 31 December 1987.
Abstract
During the 13 year period from January 1975 through December 1987, there were 78 attempted ejections from Canadian Forces (CF) aircraft of which 67 were successful. Fifty-eight of these ejectees received injuries from four main causative mechanisms: harness (restraint and parachute), body contact with cockpit surroundings during ejection, windblast force, and ejection acceleration force. Nineteen individuals (28.3%) received 'major' injuries (dislocations, fractures, connective tissue injury, and organ contusion) from ejection jolt, windblast flail, collision with the seat structure, and landing. Fourteen of these individuals (20.9%) suffered fractured vertebrae, six (8.7%) during ejection and eight (12.2%) during landing. 'Minor' injuries were primarily superficial abrasions, contusions, and lacerations. The majority of these were caused by the harness system (ballistic inertia reel yoke and parachute saddle), followed by windblast pressure on the helmet and oxygen mask, and lastly, contact with cockpit surroundings during ejection. Aircrew factors that contributed to injury were: improper position on ejection, loose restraint system and parachute harness, loose oxygen mask and helmet, and failure to release the seat pack prior to landing.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 01, 1989
- Accession Number
- ADA208116
Entities
People
- Wayne R. Sturgeon
Organizations
- Defence Research and Development Canada