P-2027 Minnesota Wing Aircrew Training: Task P-2027 Visual Search Patterns and Procedures

P-2027 Visual Search Patterns and Procedures

P-2027 Trackline or Track Crawl (Route Search) Track of missing aircraft 1/2 S Track of search aircraft

P-2027 Trackline A.K.A. Track Crawl or Route Search Variations: TSR: Trackline Single Unit Return TSN: Trackline Single Unit Non-return Used when aircraft disappeared without a trace – few clues available Often used on initial response – i.e. often the first pattern used Sometimes used at night in hope of picking up lighted or electronic distress signal

P-2027 Multiple Unit Searches Example: Trackline Multiunit Return (TMR)

P-2027 Multiple Unit Searches Many search patterns have multiple unit variants. We generally don’t use them, because they require more training in order to do them safely

P-2027 Parallel Track

P-2027 Parallel Track PS: Parallel Track Single Unit A.K.A. Grid Search Used when… – Approximate location of target is unknown – search area is large and fairly level

P-2027 Creeping Line sssss Direction of Search

P-2027 Creeping Line CS: Creeping Line Single Unit Used when… – Search area is long, narrow, and fairly level – Target thought to be near a track within two points

P-2027 Expanding Square (second pass rotated 45°) 4SS 2S 3S5S 4S 2S 3S 5S

P-2027 Expanding Square Square Pattern Used when… – Approximate position of target is known Difficult – requires precise navigation If repeated, pattern is rotated 45 degrees

P-2027 Sector Search Sector search is easier to fly than expanding square The pattern provides concentrated coverage near the center of the area This pattern is used when an electronic search has led the crew to a general area to find the exact location visually The pattern and headings are planned in advance S max S mean

P-2027 Sector Search VS: Sector, Single Unit “Six sector” most common variant Used when position of target is known within close limits Very intensive coverage near center Easier than expanding square Turns are all to the right (an arbitrary standard) “Four sector” search can also be done

P-2027 Contour Search This is a most difficult and dangerous pattern to fly Requires special training Don’t try it when winds or turbulence are bad Watch density altitude Ensure the aircraft has the required performance for the mission

P-2027 Contour Search (cont.) Search starts at highest peak and moves down After each contour is completed, altitude is decreased (usually 500 feet) – Decent is done with a turn, opposite in direction from search turns

P-2027 Contour Search (cont.) Record areas searched and not searched – some peaks or valleys will be shrouded in clouds – On map, shade areas that were searched