Originally Posted by
Red5ive
cncpc was looking for the Blacksod approach that they normally do.
Yes, that is one thing, however it seems that at Dublin departure the aircraft was outbound direct the vessel. If that is true, then it is coincidence that Blackrock was below the track. Given the considerable head start R118 had out of Sligo, R116 stopping at Blacksod to refuel would have placed it far behind R118 and the top cover intent would at best have meant a com link as R118 returned.
At some point, it is apparent that neither R116 or Shannon relay attempts can raise R118 and the intention then becomes to land at Blacksod. There seems to be some evidence that that convo with Shannon took place at some time from crossing the Achill shore outbound to around Blackrock. Followed by the change in plan to go in and fuel at Blacksod, and the turn.
At that same point, there is a reprogramming of the FMS. Assuming an approach briefing.
Or they never intended to go direct the ship, and that was the approach to Blacksod. I'm one of those who find it hard to comprehend why an approach with a letdown would have a 300 foot rock in it at all, given that there was a whole ocean out there with nothing to hit.
The last heading does seem to point pretty well into the middle of Blacksod Bay.
Hopefully the CVR will clarify most of this.