Analysis of programs and procedures designed to mitigate F/A-18 mishaps caused by Out of Control Flight

In 1983 the F/A-18 'Hornet' was introduced into the United States Navy fleet. Since that time, Out-of-Control Flight (OOCF) has been the number three cause of F/A- 18 losses, third only to Controlled Flight Into Terrain (CFIT) and midair collisions. To mitigate crashes due to sustained OOCF modes, a pilot training program was developed and new recovery procedures were implemented. Begun in 2000, the Full Aft Stick Recovery Controls flight test program began-evaluating alternate recovery procedures for the most common OOCF mode, falling leaf. This program resulted in improved OOCF recovery procedures for the fleet and suggested a technique that has the potential of substantially reducing altitude loss. One year later, the Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR) Departure Training Program was formally introduced to provide academic lectures, a simulation session, and in-flight OOCF training to F/A-18 fleet pilots. The effectiveness of these programs is attributed to the quality of instructional materials, the hands-on instructional techniques, and the exploration of radically altered emergency procedures. These programs and procedures are likely to substantially reduce the number of aircraft lost to OOCF.