TAB H (Rappelling Operations) APPENDIX 10 (Assault Helicopter Operations)

ANNEX C (Operations) to the 101st Aviation Brigade TAC SOP.

1. GENERAL. Prior to conducting a rappel mission the PC/PI will review
rappelling procedures, to include the requirements of CAM Reg 95-1 and TC
1-201.
2.

RESPONSIBILITIES.

a. The PC is the final authority for all aspects of aircraft operation

and is responsible for the following:
(1) Ensuring all crewmembers are familiar with this SOP, CAM Reg 95-1
requirements, and any other applicable directives.
(2) Briefing all crewmembers and rappel master on aircrew duties,
safety, and emergency procedures.
(3)
officer.

Prior coordination with the supported unit or aviation liaison

(4)
details.

Ensuring crewmembers are properly briefed on mission specific

b. The rappel master obeys all commands from the PC, supervises all
rappellers, and ensures the following items are completed:
(1) Briefs all rappellers and aircrew members on rappelling
procedures, safety, and emergency procedures.
(2) Supervises all rigging of equipment and inspects all equipment
prior to conducting rappelling operations.
(3)

Wears an authorized restraining device while in the aircraft.

(4) Ensures all rappellers use seats and wear seat belts when
required, or approved restraining device when not utilizing seat belts.
(5)
3.

Has a sharp knife available for emergency use.

PRE-MISSION PLANNING.

a. In addition to normal planning procedures and limitations, the

following factors should be considered prior to conducting rappelling
operations:

(1)

The number of troops to rappel.

(2)

Elevation of rappelling area.

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TAB H (Rappelling Operations) APPENDIX 10 (Assault Helicopter Operations) ANNEX C
(Operations) to the Aviation Brigade TAC SOP.
(3)

Aircraft out-of-ground effect hover capability.

(4)

Interval between arriving aircraft.

(5)

Special equipment and aircraft preparation.

b. Rappelling operations will not be conducted if wind speed exceeds 30

knots or the gust spread is 15 knots or more. The supported unit should be
advised of the improved performance and safety margin resulting from conducting
operations into the wind.
4.

AIRCRAFT PREPARATION.

a. The PC will ensure the following aircraft equipment requirements are

complied with prior to conducting rappelling operations:
(1)

Seats in rows 3 and 4 will be removed and stored.

(2)

All ICS stations will be operational.

(3)

Rappel rings will be inspected prior to use.

(4)
security.
(5)

Scuff pads will be installed when required and checked for

An operational headset will be available for the rappel master.

(6)
Although the supported unit is responsible for proper aircraft
rigging, the PC should inspect the rigging for any obvious safety deficiencies.
(7)
All nonessential equipment will be stored to preclude interference
with the rappelling operation.
(8)

Secure both cargo doors in the fully open position. Remove doors if

they cannot be secured open.

(9)

Secure and store the cargo hook access cover.

(10)

Ensure an approved safety restraining device is worn by the rappel

(11)

Minimum of one operational radar altimeter.

master.

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TAB H (Rappelling Operations) APPENDIX 10 (Assault Helicopter Operations) ANNEX C
(OPERATIONS) to the 101st Aviation Brigade TAC SOP.
5.

MISSION EXECUTION.

a. All personnel will be secured in the aircraft with an approved restraining

device. All personnel will use seats and seat belts except when flying directly
to the rappelling site and executing the mission without landing.
b.

FM communications with the ground unit should be established.

c. The rappel master must brief the crewchief on how to remove the ropes from
the rings should it become necessary to do so in flight.
d. When a stabilized hover into the wind is established, and the PC
determines that rappelling operations can be completed safely he will authorize
the rappel master to begin rappelling.
e. Rappel ropes will remain secured inside the aircraft until the PC
authorizes the rappel master to cast the ropes. The crewchief shall advise the PC
that ropes have been cast.
f. If belay personnel are present during the initial rappel, the crewchief
shall advise the PC that ropes are secured by the belay personnel.
g. If belay personnel are not present, the crewchief shall ensure that
approximately 20 feet of rope is on the ground. During night operations a chem
light may be placed 20 feet from the end of the rope.

h. Although the radar altimeter is a valuable aid and should be used, pilots
must use visual cues as their primary altitude reference.
i. When the rappel master verifies that all rappellers have cleared the
ropes, he will either drop the ropes or secure them in the aircraft.
j. The aircraft will not depart until the ropes have been secured or have
been dropped clear of the aircraft.
6.

EMERGENCY PROCEDURES.

a. If an emergency landing is required, the pilot will attempt to move the

aircraft forward as he approaches the ground.
b. If at any time any crewmember or rappel master observes an unsafe act or
situation, operations will cease until the situation is rectified, and the PC
determines that operations can be safely resumed.

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