AFI 11-2C-130v3 - BITS

250 AFI11-2C-130V3 23 APRIL 2012
lines per door, per pass with one loadmaster, or 20 static lines per door, per pass with two
people (combination of loadmasters, jumpmasters or safety personnel).
19.23.5.2. Jump platform(s) may be left extended during manual retrieval of static lines.
However, if the retriever winch is used, the jump platform must be retracted.
19.23.5.3. When using the Towed Parachutist Retrieval System (TPRS), paratroop door
static lines are normally retrieved using the retrieval sling assembly (choker). The
retriever assist strap (RAS) is not required for normal retrieval of static lines. Although
not required, the RAS may be used for proficiency or instructional purposes during
normal static line retrieval.
19.23.6. During combat, cut static lines that cannot be retrieved. On other than combat
missions, if the static line retriever fails during retrieval and more than 10/20 static lines are
to be retrieved from a paratroop door, manually retrieve the static lines by using a 5,000
pound tiedown strap as follows:
19.23.6.1. Secure the hook end to a point forward enough in the cargo compartment to
permit static lines to enter completely in to the aircraft.
19.23.6.2. Pass the other end of the strap under the static line from the bottom up,
making a "U" around the static lines.
19.23.6.3. Pull the strap forward to retrieve the static lines into the aircraft. Loadmasters
may require assistance to pull the strap forward.
19.23.7. If the static line retriever fails following a combination or tailgate drop, use the
following procedure using the Prusik knot.
19.23.7.1. Take a 30-inch piece of 1/2-inch tubular nylon cord that is tied in a loop. Loop
the cord around the static line retriever winch cable. Use a minimum of three wraps
around the retriever cable to ensure locking of the 1/2-inch tubular nylon cord.
19.23.7.2. Pull to tighten the knot around the retriever winch cable to prevent slipping.
Attach a carabineer into the 1/2-inch tubular nylon loop. Attach the hook end of a 5,000pound
strap into the carabineer and pull in the static lines. The 1/2-inch tubular nylon
cord will remain locked in place under tension.
19.23.7.3. More than one 1/2-inch tubular nylon cord may be attached to the winch cable
using the Prusik knot to facilitate static-line retrieval. The Prusik knot may be adjusted up
or down the cable as required. The knot will not slip as long as it is wrapped tightly with
a minimum of three turns (more wraps equal more friction) and tension is applied.
19.24. Tailgate Airdrop Procedures.
19.24.1. Tailgate drops are those drops during which parachutists exit from the aircraft ramp.
The maximum rigged weight of the parachutist is 325 pounds. Tailgate drops are approved
for STT, Pararescue (PJ), Air Force Survival Evasion Resistance Escape (SERE) Specialists,
Army Special Forces, Navy SEALS, paratroopers equipped for arctic airdrop, other US and
allied special operations personnel, US Army Quartermaster Center and School, Yuma
Proving Ground Airborne Test Force, and units for which a combination drop is their normal
method of deployment.