[Scan-DC] VMFA-321 IFE

[Rapbep@aol.com]

All,

In the 2100-2200 EDT time frame a couple of VMFA-321 F-18s (Angel 41 flight) 
were training in the PAX River restricted areas. Near the end of their 
training, Angel 41 declared an IFE due to a compressor stall in his right 
engine.  He tried several procedures and finally had to shut down his right 
engine. He reported the right engine secured--zero RPMs.

He declared his IFE to Bay Watch (270.8) and received direct clearance back 
to Andrews. In the meantime his wing man (Angel 42) contacted the VMFA-321 
SOF (302.6) to have the ground crew alerted and to look in the "big book" to 
verify what landing procedures would be necessary.  Since he lost his right 
engine he would not have nose wheel steering or brakes. His wingman asked the 
SOF to have the tower alerted and to have the arresting gear in place.

Angel 41 tried to lower his landing gear and there was no joy.  His landing 
gear would not come down.  He back off his speed to 180 knots and lowered his 
landing gear manually---it came down with the manual gear twist mechanism. 
((Audible sigh of relief here))

Angel 41 conducted a single-engine landing and landed safely on Runway 1 Left 
using the arresting gear. Andrews tower reported a lot of sparks when Angel 
41 touched down and asked him if he was OK.  He was OK. Ground crew was there 
to meet the aircraft upon landing and get it towed back to the squadron area. 


Both pilots were amazingly (in my opinion) calm and unflapped during the 
whole thing. 

As they say on TV---These Guys Are Good.

RON
MIDDLE ATLANTIC MILCOM
MARYLAND, USA


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