FM 57-35 Airmobile Operations - Survival Books

WWW.SURVIVALEBOOKS.COM(g) Their turnaround time is short, making possible rapidshuttle movements.(h) They can be landed in the objective area in a tacticalformation, landing zones permitting.(i) Their ability to decelerate rapidly, combined withtheir capacity for slow forward speed and near verticallanding, enables helicopters to operate under marginalweather conditions.(j) Landings and takeoffs at night can be made with aminimum of lighting.(k) Aircraft flying at low level are capable of effecting surprise, obtaining deception as to landing areas, and employing shock action through the use of suppressivefires.(2) Limitations.(a) A helicopter unit has a relatively high deadline factorduring continuous operations due to maintenance requirements.(b) The fuel consumption rate of helicopters is high, imposing limitations on range and allowable cargo load.(c) Weight and balance affect flight control. Loads mustbe properly distributed to keep the center of gravitywithin allowable limits.(d) Hail, sleet, icing, heavy rains, and gusty winds (30knots or greater) may limit or preclude their use.(e) Engine and rotor noise may compromise secrecy.(/) Pilot fatigue is an element requiring greater consideration in the operation of rotary-wing than fixed-wingaircraft.(g) The load-carrying capability of helicopters decreaseswith increases of altitude, humidity, and temperature.(h) A wind velocity above 10 knots normally affects theselection of the direction of approach and landing.b. Airplanes.(1) Capabilities.(a) Army tactical transport airplanes can operate fromrelatively short, unimproved landing areas providingthe terrain is fairly smooth.(b) They have a greater range than helicopters and requireless maintenance.(c) Cargo can be transported as an external load suspended10 AGO 2294B