Winching procedures....

[zaplead]

I would be very grateful if pilots or rear-crew involved with the operation of SAR Seaking's could indicate the maximum speed in forward flight when:
The cargo door is open, &
When a winchman is on the wire
In addition I am interested to know what pre-winching checks are performed by the front & rear-crew prior to winching?
Many Thanks.......

[ethereal entity]

Before I answer, let me ask you one thing.

Why!

Call me suspicious if you like, but that's only 'cause I'm suspicious.

[zaplead]

I am aircrew with a civilian operator which has (ambitious)aspirations to develop a casual winching capability in the longer term.
I describe it as 'casual' simply because the operational neccessity would be rare & have no funding to undertake training flights to maintain recency.
It is my understanding that all existing civilian companies that winch require their Rear-Crew to have previous military training.
In addition, I am certain that any circumstances in which the CAA would permit a civilian operator to practise winch ops would be so tightly regulated (& rightly so in my view) that it would be totally impractical.
To this end, I simply wish to understand more about the factors, dangers & limitations to consider when considering performing a winch lift, some of which may not be readily apparent to those who are not familiar with the technique......thank's.

[left one o clock]

Zap,
With the best will in the world, and not wanting to appear patronising, what seems at first sight to be a simple question actually requires a complex SERIES of answers. It's like asking a fast jet type what speed he drops his bombs at. SAR is a complex and specialised occupation and to do it safely requires dedicated training time. However, all of the requisite info is available, both from the military (RAF/RN) and the CG. If you can't get the info from them via 'official' channels, there's probably a good reason.
Hope that didn't sound condescending, it wasn't intended to.

Left1.:)

[zaplead]

Thanks for your reply, I agree that it is indeed a complex subject & as you observed it requires dedicated training time, which is why my organisation will probably never achieve their aim of having the capability to winch.
I believe that in the interests of safety this is an area of speciality best left to those who do it professionally.
My enquiry is simply because I wish to understand the complexity of this subject in order that I may present a reasoned & researched case why it is best left to those who perform the service exceptionally well already, while we focus our efforts on achieving capabilities that are more attainable & which will be used far more frequently.
With reference to the existing providers, I have found them exceptionally approachable and more than willing to provide an insight into this topic, however, these were just a few questions which I omitted to cover during my enquiries with them.
Many thank's for your input....Zap:)

[AceRimmer]

Ah yes something does spring to mind, "SARbooooys...

[blind pue]

Zaplead
If you can get a look at a copy of JP3456 (CD or hardback) I think it will answer your basic question. I believe the procedures for winching are in the Survival section although I am sure one of the SAR boys will be able to send you in the right direction.:cool:

[zaplead]

Hi BP,
Many thanks for your advice, I greatly appreciate it.
I will post a notice to that effect.
Thanks again.........Zap:)