AFI 11-2C-130v3 - BITS

256 AFI11-2C-130V3 23 APRIL 2012
19.33.6. The minimum deployment altitude will be 3500 feet AGL when the STT exits using
freefall parachutes. Higher altitudes may be used for training. For operational missions,
minimum altitude with the freefall parachutes is 2500 feet AGL. If low ceilings prohibit the
use of freefall parachutes, the STT will deploy using static line parachutes immediately
following the RAMZ package. The RAMZ and STT will be deployed from the same altitude.
The minimum deployment altitude for both RAMZ and STT will be 800 feet AGL.
19.33.7. For training, one or more safety recovery boats will be in position to recover
equipment and personnel as required.
19.34. Low Cost Low Altitude Airdrop (LCLA). LCLA airdrop is an aerial delivery system
consisting of low-weight airdrop bundles deployed from the aircraft ramp and door at very low
altitudes, enabling circular error (CE) accuracy within 100 meters. This airdrop is appropriate for
employment within or near a FOB or close to troops. While US Army and USMC fixed- and
rotary-wing platforms have traditionally accomplished this mission, theater requirements
necessitate MAF aircraft meet ground component requirements. Refer to applicable AFI, TO,
TTP, for further LCLA guidance.
19.34.1. Bundles. LCLA bundle size and weight range depends on the rigging procedure and
parachute type. Use the low cost polypropylene straps (similar to the A-7A straps) and a 42inch
skid board. NOTE: IAW TO 13C-7-1-11, Airdrop of Supplies and Equipment: Rigging
Containers, skid boards require a minimum weight of 28 pounds per square foot. Bundles
may be dropped individually or simultaneously from the ramp.
19.34.2. Parachutes. All LCLA parachutes are one-time-use expendable items. MAJCOMs
may permit subordinate organizations to reuse 24 and 35-foot cargo parachutes for training
purpose only. The following is general information regarding current systems. Until
published in AFI 11-231, refer to the LCLA Tactics Bulletin for parachute configurations,
associated weight ranges, and ballistics data.
19.34.3. Joint Airdrop Inspection. Accomplish JAI on all bundles utilizing the DD Form
1748-1 in accordance with AFJI 13-210. For bundles to be repositioned, annotate ―to be
rigged in-flight‖ in the Remarks section of the DD Form 1748-1.
19.34.4. Checklists.
19.34.4.1. Utilize the CDS AIRDROP checklist for all LCLA airdrops. The PF states
―CDS, LCLA PROCEDURES‖ during the PRE-SLOWDOWN checklist.
19.34.4.2. Consider terrain on/around the DZ when setting the radar altimeter. Consider
setting 50 feet below drop altitude to identify any discrepancies between planned MSL
drop altitude and the radar altimeter due to an inaccurate altimeter setting. Identify a
minimum CARA on the run-in and climb anytime ―ALTITUDE, ALTITUDE‖ is heard.
19.34.4.3. During the slowdown, configure with 50-percent flaps and ramp and door onspeed.
19.34.4.4. Do not remove forward restraint until the ramp is in the horizontal position.
19.34.4.5. Crews may keep the RELEASE POINT checklist open if subsequent airdrops
or racetracks are planned at the same DZ or to DZs within close proximity. Base
racetrack decisions on mission-specific parameters, such as terrain and threat, and crew
proficiency.