Aircraft Carrier's Crew hand signals explained - preflight and launch

[@daveperala4723]

As a former roof rat, I too used these signals. When I became a 'final checker', I had a few Aviators that thought they were in charge. They aren't. Yellow shirt OWNS that bird till it's passed off. Had this one guy refused to put his hands up when doing the final check. I don't see your hands, I don't check your plane. Seen guys lose and almost lose digits because some "O" bumped the stick when getting checked. One guy went to the Skipper on me. Said I used an unauthorized hand signal. Left hand slightly cupped, held horizontal to the deck, right hand balled into fist cupped in left hand, violent motion removing balled fist from cupped hand. Skipper told him that he had best follow instruction to avoid injuring any of HIS line rats. And that signal meant "pull your head out of your ass".

[@warringtonminge4167]

🤣 Just for the benefit of an interested Limey unfamiliar with all that NAVAIR paperwork, which manual defines snapping a balled fist out of a cupped hand?

[@russellg9158]

@@warringtonminge4167 It's not in the NATOPS, it is an unofficial signal.

[@warringtonminge4167]

@@russellg9158 pretty much as I expected (hence the ROFL smiley at the start😉) but thanks for the confirmation 👍

[@TheDalhuck]

When I was a young turd shirt in the RAG, I was out doing hot brakes and had a student pilot almost run me over twice. I gave him the "pull your head out of your ass" and "you watch me" signals, then tried again. The jet didn't move the third time. lol

[@benz500r]

Great story. Well, sometimes people forget to check their egos before they hop in a jet. I'm glad it's not an ongoing daily thing because that would ad an additional level of complication to an organized chaos.

[@redjaypictures4528]

I think it’d be REALLY cool if they managed to reenact a carrier launch at an air show, having all this happening with an announcer explaining what the crew’s signals mean while guiding a plane to the runway for the main stunt display

[@grizwoldphantasia5005]

They'd have to do it in slow motion, like this video; there's too much happening in a short amount of time. The audience might be too far away to see the details. Not sure how they'd simulate the JBDs and catapult. But it would be interesting.

[@beeble2003]

@@grizwoldphantasia5005 Yeah, I can't see any way that this could work. Even if they just demoed up to the point of the aircraft being authorized to launch, the plane still has to move around under its own power before that point. So it's far too loud to allow the audience anywhere close enough to see what's going on. And the whole reason the hand signals are needed is that it's too loud to hear the commentary.

[@dragsys]

@@beeble2003 The use cameras and large video screens at every demo of the Blue Angels or Thunderbirds I've been to, can't see why they couldn't do the same thing for a sim'd carrier launch. And I agree watching it in real-time or even close to real time on the ground would be cool.

[@deniseroney]

@@dragsys We have an air show each year in our town, a huge screen showing all the preparation till final lift off would be great for all to view and something just a little different. A have always been interested in the signals for the planes, very interesting!

[@haramanggapuja]

As a radioman on the USS Saratoga some five decades back, I used to go up to the signal bridge and watch flight ops when I wasn't otherwise occupied or on watch. I was always amazed that (a) nobody got run over by a plane or otherwise got injured and (b) the efficiency and concentration it took to do those jobs. And I was glad that I was a radioman. Flight deck crew are the gustiest gang on the ship, maybe more than the guys in the engine rooms, who also work under very dangerous conditions. In the end, each of us had two simple jobs: keep ourselves alive so we could keep our shipmates alive.

[@Necracudda]

You gotta be aware of your surroundings is the big thing they enforce. Not being aware or paying attention will cause accidents such as getting hit by crossing a safety line drawn on the deck of not watching your step while actively workin on top of the supers. the big dangers are launches and landings since those are usually were most accidents take place.

[@bahestley]

Spent some time as a red shirt on USS Independence. After shore duty I was assigned IM3 division on USS Saratoga. I used to go up to Vultures Row and watch flight ops. I was on Sara from 1972 through 1975.

[@grizwoldphantasia5005]

I was a supply clerk on USS Midway 1973-6, and never got tired of watching flight ops from vultures row. My main memories of an F-4 Phantom launch are the afterburners making it too hot to watch (from, say, 50 feet up and 200 feet back) for more than a second or two; the guy who heaved on the leading edge, then ducked underneath and repeated his shoving on the opposite side (on the non-folding section, so I guessed he was making sure the leading edge slats were locked); how the first movement on launch was the plane hunkering down and compressing the struts; and then picking up speed and flying. I seem to remember one launch where the F-4 actually dropped out of sight below the flight deck for a second or two. which probably looked a lot more dramatic to me just because of how far after I was. I never did pick up on all the hand signals, just the basics, but the description as "organized chaos" sure was accurate from what I could see. I also remember watching landings on the ships TV. One of the lenses was near the forward end of the landing zone, smack in the middle, and I swear, half the F-4 landings, the two nose wheels would run over that lens one on each side; that accuracy always amazed me. Also, the tire shop was aft end of the hangar, and dead tire carcasses were so stiff you could walk on them almost without any wiggle. The F-4 nose landing gear doors said pressure was 350 PSI land, 450 PSI ship, always made me giggle to think of steel harder than concrete, even though I knew it was that land landings flare and land much more softly. Thanks for the education some 50 years later :)

[@misterx8592]

E6 Radioman here too. USS George Phillip

[@privatepilot4064]

As a Plane Captain years ago, it’s definitely a choreographed mayhem all done with extreme precision. You can’t get much more professional than those folks on the flight deck.

[@spev7989]

Extremely good video. Out of my 22 years on the flight deck as a yellow shirt, this video is spot on. You sir have invested a huge amount of time researching the operations of the flight deck.

[@x-planed]

Wow 22 years on the flight deck. Most impressive. I’d love to spend just one day watching Your work. It’s so fascinating. I’m sure You have some helluva stories to tell😍

[@howardtreesong4860]

22 years on a flight deck and you didn't spot the error 40 seconds in on NAVAIR 00-80T-113, figure 2-1. You scare me.

[@spev7989]

​@@howardtreesong4860wow, troll much?

[@spev7989]

Like watching Top Gun, errors everywhere. But still a good movie.

[@howardtreesong4860]

@@spev7989 It's the truth, right? The document contains an error. It's about the safety on a flight deck.

[@michaelmappin4425]

Very nice job. There are a few subtle errors but you got the gist of everything that goes on. I would point out 2 things. The shooter can shoot from the deck or from the "bubble." If it on deck or topside, they touch the deck and point. If you see a thumbs up, it's because the shooter is in the bubble and the topside safety observer (a qualified enlisted person)is passing, "all go" to the shooter. Normal aircraft stop is accomplished by closing fists to indicate brakes on. That signal with crossed arms indicates emergency stop. Okay, 3 things. Don't confuse the term launch bar and tow bar. The launch bar is part of the aircraft. A tow bar is attached to the aircraft for towing with a tractor. Well, 4 things. Blue shirts are part of move crews that are led by yellow shirts.

[@x-planed]

Thanks for Your feedback Mate:) Appreciate it

[@michaelmappin4425]

@@x-planed No, thank you for the time and attention to detail you put into this outstanding video.

[@warrenchambers4819]

@@michaelmappin4425 I take it you've done this before? If so you guys don't get enough credit for the extremely professional and highly dangerous job you do. For the record I always thought the opening scene in Top Gun made the deck crew look bad ass hats off to ya.

[@michaelmappin4425]

@@warrenchambers4819 yes sir. I was on 6 different carriers. I started off in crash and salvage but wore a yellow shirt from 1989 to 2012. Thank you for your kind comments. I love the opening sequence in Top Gun. Even though it was a hodgepodge of the days activities, it's still pretty awesome. The one thing I would cut out is the yellow shirt standing back by the arresting gear making a funky kick and arm pull thing. That guy was just goofing around and it isn't any official gesture. Everything else happens daily in one form or another. As far as the rest of the movie goes, they should have used official radio comms instead of that Maverick has the ball garbage. It is way cooler. LSO: Three quarters of a mile, call the ball Mav: one one four Tomcat ball, three five LSO: Roger ball

[@Black__Hawk_II]

@@michaelmappin4425 to the untrained eye, the funky kick and arm pull thing made that whole operation look badass and fun. That opening scene was everything! Thanks for the additional detail as I watch for educational purposes.

[@proberts34]

147 easy steps to launching an aircraft in 4 minutes. 😃 Thanks for the video.

[@drkskyes]

I've said for years that the young folks on an aircraft flight deck are the some of the bravest and most professional of just about anyone in the military.

[@chuckremlinger2982]

Then you’ve never been in a hot LZ with a Marine

[@AFrickingOrange]

@@chuckremlinger2982 "some of" doesn't mean "the most". Learn some reading comprehension.

[@squidusn71]

I thought it was fun.

[@torn-_shuttle123]

I honestly wouldn’t say “the bravest or most professional”. Most of these young kids had no clue what they would endure when they signed up to be an AB. And most times it’s the undesignated Airman that gets thrown into that particular AB rate that they have to try and adapt to. Most love it and give it their all, that’s the bravest and professional. And then you have those that are just going through the motions, and that isn’t worthy of any kind of recognition.

[@rickcarter4417]

I’ve watched several of these videos occasionally that explain carrier decks. Well produced, slick videography, ballsy announcers, professional networks. Imagine my surprise when the guy with the thick accent and cartoon graphics summed it up best in 12 minutes.

[@x-planed]

Sorry for my accent, I’m not a native, but I’ll try to improve. Thanks for the feedback though😉

[@BigStrap]

@@x-planed It was an entirely understandable accent the whole way through, which puts you above a significant chunk of native English speakers!

[@x-planed]

@@BigStrap thanks Man. Appreciate it:)

[@tdrewman]

@@x-planed Nothing wrong with your accent, I grew up around people with accents from all different parts of the world being an Air Force Brat living on Air Forces base for 18 years. You speak better that people that grew up speaking English as their first language in the US. There are really bad English speakers in this country that can not form a sentence properly.

[@ernestgalvan9037]

@@x-planed …NEVER apologize for your accent….

[@k1ross]

I have to echo several of the comments below. Apart from a few minor errors (which is very understandable for someone who probably never worked the Roof for a living), this was a REALLY well-done video, infinitely better than the majority of the crap on KZbin. Clearly explained, simple, VERY well organized, with excellent video editing that precisely showed what you were describing. All-in-all, Bravo Zulu!

[@x-planed]

Thanks Mate:)

[@benz500r]

I agree too.

[@3cap97]

Concur -- very nicely done. Concise and mostly accurate -- most glaring error is "stop". Normal ops, director will show clenching fists for gradual braking to a full stop. The clenched fists + crossed arms is a signal for emergency STOP! Retired pilot USN.

[@noelinsley8057]

For a non-flight deck person, this was well presented and easier to follow than others I have watched. Thank you.

[@MorDarek]

I've always wondered what these signs mean. Thanks for the clear explanation of these gestures. I look forward to more movies like this.

[@markfortuin7111]

Thank you. Very informative. And thanks to Michael for identifying a few “errors”.

[@traceyfleger7950]

A lot of people see the awesomeness of the operations but don't see the hours, days, and elements these men and women work to keep the operations going. My husband would leave for deployments weighing 160 lbs to come home at 130 lbs. Little sleep, walking falling asleep, or stories of passing out. So, thank you Air Dept. for your sacrifice to me and the nation.

[@Iridium43]

A few minutes with no activity and they doze off wherever they can find a spot; cockpit, huffer seat, engine intake, etc. wherever.

[@mattjacomos2795]

I would like to point out is the fundamental that all signals ABOVE the waist are for the pilots and all signals BELOW the waist are for the deck crew... Also the holdback fitting is a bolt with a breaking strain that corresponds to a little more than the specific aircraft's maximum thrust, so that it is "Held Back" on the shuttle until the shuttle fires, when it is designed to snap under the cat shot's added power.

[@x-planed]

Thanks for Your feedback. I wanted to add some info about above/below waist signals but I’ve noticed that marshallers and directors sometimes override this rule😉

[@scottandrews9519]

They have hydraulic holdbacks these days. Basically the force of the cat forces fluid into a chamber and when high enough moves a ball check that allows it to fire and release.

[@juditrotter5176]

That is an amazing use of Human Factors engineering ….

[@karlsattler4636]

Well done .... brings back memories of driving the F-8 Crusader (the last of the gunfighters to you young guys that never heard of it) for the USMC ... Always amazed at the dedication and skill of the young guys that operated in an environment that is so hazardous and can go sideways in a moment of inattention.

[@skicrz]

Terrific explanation of very complex and potentially dangerous operation. TY

[@x-planed]

Thank You. Hope U subscribed😉

[@ScaleHangar182]

Such a cool and very informative video. Thanks very much!

[@x-planed]

Thank You:)

[@MCMXI1]

Outstanding editing showing the hand signals as they are explained. Well done.

[@cards0486]

Ever since I saw TOP GUN MAVERICK I’ve been going through KZbin to find as many videos as I can explaining the operation of fighter jets taking off and landing on flight decks. I certainly give much more thought to every person working the flight crews on the ships. If every one of them doesn’t do his/her best involving every detail pilots’ lives could be in danger. Those salutes, to and from pilots to crew chiefs, show such respect. I love that.

[@jaywhyTahiti]

one of the best videos i've seen on YT. Thank you so much

[@rjones6219]

A few years ago I watched a video on the launch procedures, puzzled at the hand signals, but found nothing that explained them. Thanks for your effort.

[@x-planed]

Thanks Mate😉

[@privatepilot4064]

I used to do that! Every Plane Captain had their own “style” too. In my squadron, personalizing your signals was encouraged as long as it didn’t deviate from what the intent of the hand signal was.

[@peterlivingston8155]

Excellent, most clear and concise description I have seen, terrific.Thank you.

[@x-planed]

Thanks. Hope U subscribed

[@sanaeozora]

Thanks for making this video! And once again, forever in awe at everyone who work tirelessly to keep us all safe. I know for a fact that they don't get paid anywhere near as much as they should for the oftentimes immensely dangerous work they do. I can only thank them all from the bottom of my heart and pray they're all well and healthy.

[@azmanmdsalleh2009]

Even at late 50s it's still mesmerized me on any aircraft carrier information, great video sir

[@x-planed]

Thanks Mate:)

[@warringtonminge4167]

Likewise (+10 yrs). Got interested when I had the privilege as a (Royal) Navy cadet to stand on the deck of HMS Hermes when tied up in Grand Harbour Valletta with USS Forrestal alongside. Not the shabbiest summer camp for a schoolkid😎

[@louisel.sinniger2057]

Love watching these video’s AND enjoy reading the comments from crew or previous crew on these crafts. I have always LOVED anything about aviation. The closest I ever got was to fly glider planes. Great respect for these individuals. My dad was a Navy man 22 years. Once he was temporarily on an air craft carrier. I remember him telling me how HUGH they were.

[@WardDorrity]

I have a little over 300 hours in sailplanes. Most folks don't understand that you only get one shot at landing. No go-arounds. When I went for single engine, the instructor remarked on how smooth I was. Glider time tends to iron out any kinks.

[@paodepota8373]

I loved watching this! Very informational and fun! I've always wanted to learn how they operate using those hand signals! Thanks!

[@x-planed]

Thanks You:)

[@dwrabauke]

I have always wanted to know how this all works. Thanks for explaining, great video!

[@jackthompson8560]

I was in USN 89 to 93. I worked on a bird farm, USS Saratoga CV-60, CAG-17 was the air wing and I was in VF 74 F-14 Tomcats. I made 2 floats to the Med Sea and Red Sea. Gulf War Desert Shield and Storm. I love working the flight deck, adrenaline junkie job. I must say you did a good explaining thing. A couple of minor things, I would have said a different way. But yeah good job. Bravo Zulu.

[@Propnut48]

WOW, 😲 there’s a lot to do to just to launch a plane. No wonder there is a small city worth of people on board. Great job explaining how it works.

[@x-planed]

Thank You

[@walterquick8649]

Pink belly is the best hand sig

[@Tomcatntbird]

I was a fueler(grape/purple shirt) on board the USS Guam LPH9 for 2 1/2 years. There are several more and signals u didn't cover used by fueling crews. Flight ops on a helicopter carrier vs a aircraft carrier is very different. All those hand signals and checks are done in seconds. An aircraft carrier can put 1 aircraft in the air every 30 seconds, just for a baseline.

[@x-planed]

Sure. I would take a lot more time to show all the signals so I focused on the most common ones:)

[@Tomcatntbird]

@@x-planed another aspect of signals isn't supposed to be so sloppy as seen in this video with those guys just waving their hands in the air. There is supposed to be a uniformity and precision with such. Otherwise, it's the signaler being lazy and uncaring about what the art of signaling is supposed to be. I worked at an airport and signaled/marshalled aircraft to their parking spot and having pilots approach me to ask where I learned how to signal like I do, I am proud to say the US Navy. 😁

[@chrisneumann4202]

@@Tomcatntbird Yeah I noticed that too. Sloppy didn't fly in my day.

[@ceesarbacker6455]

Great job done. I am always amazed how this complex job is carried out and never get tired of watching these brave young men work together. Thank you for keeping us safe in these United States.

[@x-planed]

Thanks man😉

[@johnvrabec9747]

Also add the tension and pressure on these fine people in combat conditions. Train, train train until you do it right, and then keep training so you can't not do it right. Nice video, I learned so much.

[@ItsEliza5]

Me who’s got no shot at being in the Navy but is still fascinated by it: “hmmm yes this is completely useful information”

[@x-planed]

Thanks

[@LL1752]

Been looking for a video like this for ages. Magnificent job.

[@x-planed]

Thanks for Your comment:)

[@anantgautam2485]

Had always been fascinated by Marshalls and these guys.Thank you for explaining what all those hand signals mean

[@x-planed]

Thank You😉

[@apatriot4698]

Thanks for these explanations of the "simple" task to get airborne from a carrier deck. A well done one.. 👌👍

[@ceesarbacker6455]

Fantastic , I enjoy watching landings and take-off, so amazed how the launching safely works with all the hand signals. Thank you to everyone in your work to keep America safe. You are all brave men!!

[@mrcoffee03]

Thank you, what a wonderful explanation, now I watch with more intent and enjoyment.

[@anaheim92806]

This is an informative and fantastic video! It is interesting to see the crew use many precise hand signals for communication. I have so much respect for our service personnel.

[@x-planed]

Thank You😉

[@awca]

That was extremely informative. I've seen a variety of videos on catapult videos and have always wondered what was what, and this one really filled in the gaps. So much happening on a carrier, only those that actually do it will ever know the real deal. Still, this one was just so interesting and gives a renewed appreciation for what the rest of us can only stare in awe and wonder. Just plain stinkin' cool to see what goes on! Thank you for creating it and God bless all those that lived it and ARE living it.

[@cjctucson7683]

Wow, great stuff. I have seen little bits of each action on some videos, but never knew exactly what was being done. Well done on this video. Thx!

[@edwardturner1282]

Outstanding explanation. Now I can really enjoy flight deck operations.

[@Vod-Kaknockers]

Spent 3 years as a fresh air snipe on the Kitty Hawk and although I got to watch a boatload ( no pun intended ) of flight ops I never considered all the chaos that went on up on the roof. Thanks for the video.👍

[@Crashoverride1234]

I remember seeing the KittyHawk come into Sydney Harbour over ten years ago now. What a beautiful ship. You could hear the sailors from a mile away because they were so loud and free 😂

[@gregp1409]

I've seen several videos that do a horrendous job "explaining" what is going on during a launch. Most of the time you can tell that the person never worked on the deck and tried to explain what was going on after reading a book or maybe watching a video. There were a few errors in what you said but overall you did an outstanding job!

[@torn-_shuttle123]

I agree. For those that had been a part of the whole process, it’s not as pretty or simple as presented.

[@geraldmurphy1428]

This is pretty exciting. I was in VA-87 1996. I was on USS Franklin D Roosevelt. I myself launch A-7 of the carrier. It's a job that you have to pay attention at all times. I enjoy watching this. Retire Navy Veteran Vietnam ⚓️⚓️

[@x-planed]

Wow thank You. Always a pleasure reading such words from real life Navy veteran

[@geraldmurphy1428]

@x-planed Good morning my friend. Thanks for your replying. Have a Bless-Day

[@UnicornPastelPrincess]

I could sit and watch them do their job all day, it is so cool to watch, they are all so amazing at what they do and how well they all work together,

[@thomaslore730]

Good job, this explains a lot on how aircraft are launched off of carriers.

[@x-planed]

Thank You😉

[@ms.annthrope415]

That is so complex an operation. China may have 2 carriers but they don't have 85 years of launch, combat, and recovery operations that the US has. And this is in daytime and not night operations, an even more intricate and dangerous operations. Our naval crew makes it look easy because they are drilled in constant exercises. Salute to the hard working sailors and pilots who keep our nation safe. From an old army officer to the navy. 🫡

[@mrsupremegascon]

Yes, but Chinese are quick learners. Look how fast they developed their countries by copying Western and Japanese tech and social organisations.

[@ewenchan1239]

Thank you for this video!

[@x-planed]

You’re welcome. Hope U subscribed😉

[@thebeardednurse187]

Really well done. A fantastic video describing each stage in great detail. Keep it up!

[@x-planed]

Thank You. I would be grateful for subscribing. It'll help me develop the chanell:)

[@thebeardednurse187]

@@x-planed done

[@x-planed]

@@thebeardednurse187 thanks Mate:)

[@Backtothehat]

Holy cow these flight deck guys are amazing. Reinforces how much of an unnecessary job I do. Our military personnel rock!!!👍🏽🇺🇸🤯

[@x1101126]

That's a lot of hard work. Both the workers in the video, and the video uploader. Good job!

[@x-planed]

Thanks Mate!:)

[@fuzzybutkus8970]

Love his accent. Sounds so direct and to the point. Found myself listening more. Well done.

[@x-planed]

LoL thanks Mate. I guess You’re the first one not complaining on my „wooden” accent😂

[@trishave5639]

That was very informative and made things a lot clearer for me. Thank you :)

[@stefanhurd7028]

As an ABE who was in thr video i definitely remember a small film crew onbaord the enterprise that day during workups. I really do miss it. For anyone wandering about the cats its alot more thrn pushing a few buttons to keep those cats maintained

[@x-planed]

Where can we see You?

[@stefanhurd7028]

@@x-planed I was being trained as a topside PO by one of my best friends. It's when it was 2of us under a plane. I remember the film crew coming onboard the enterprise

[@colinmccauley3301]

WOW, thank you very much for this excellent explanation of the launch process on this carrier. very well done, much appreciated. I was Army but I always admired these launch deck guys and now girls.

[@x-planed]

Me too:) Thanks for Your feedback bro:)

[@lightblue254]

Yup, they're absolutely some cool as fuck people

[@mrskurtz713]

this was super informative but easy to follow along! thanks a bunch!!!

[@maggifernandez7841]

As a mom of a brown shirt PC (AE) on the flight deck of the George HW Bush (who is currently at Top Gun for his second time for more training before deployment), this was both informative and scary! He’s constantly telling me about running around with chains on his neck and having to hang onto each other not to get blown off deck as well as the wing buzz 20-30 ft coming in from his head. My hat (Navy of course ;) and my prayers are with all those in our service who perform amazing jobs without recognition!

[@lionessa4806]

Bravo Zulu very well said… you must be so proud of your son please thank him for his Service and may God keep him and his fellow veteran safe!

[@switchblade800x3]

No offence, but does Top Gun exist for real? I have always heard and read that it was just a fictional name for the movies.

[@Geeksmithing]

I hope he is finally in his AE work center!

[@bvljac]

@@switchblade800x3 NAVAL AIR STATION FALLON in the Northern Nevada desert took over for NAS Miramar

[@torn-_shuttle123]

Good for you supporting your son. My last carrier was the G. HW Bush. But, that was 2016 and I retired shortly after. Was Aviation Boatswains Mate Equipment (ABE). Flight Deck Carrier operations isn’t for anyone.

[@MrSousou9381]

Last year, I been looking around for this type of videos. Those guys on an aircraft carrier, their moves. Holy shit. It looked cool. I couldn't find any videos. Nor did I know the term to Google this. Today, you just popped out of nowhere. This youtube algorithm. I think it's alive.

[@SilverHwk7]

9:50 - "Take Tension" - That's an instruction to the catapult operators, not the pilot. It's given after the launch bar is moved in front of the catapult shuttle and instructs the catapult operator to move the shuttle forward, hooking the launch bar into it. The aircraft will be at idle when this takes place. In some videos, you might see an aborted launch where they'll give similar hand signals the opposite direction. They'll direct the catapult operator to move the shuttle back from the launch bar, instruct the pilot to raise the launch bar, and then instruct the catapult operator to move the shuttle forward again. The aircraft will be at idle when this takes place.

[@michaelmappin4425]

He would have been correct up until 2009. Before that, pilots went to mil power upon yellow shirt direction. There was a NATOPS change for safety of the topside PO.

[@Mariner311]

SH-60B Seahawk Aircrewman (winged in 1987) - we had to qualify as Plane-Captains and LSE (Landing Signal Enlisted) FIRST (never know when you'll land away from base and have to take care of inspections and start-up/shut-down... I can STILL do a proper start-up signal run 35 years later.

[@Solidboat123]

F/A-18's launch hands off the stick because the aircraft is pre-trimmed to automatically pitch the aircraft up the appropriate amount at the end of the stroke. Hornets are not the first to do this - the Royal Navy used a similar 'hands-off' technique for the Buccaneer back in the '60s and '70s.

[@richinoregon]

Thanks for the good video. I had to learn these signals to make airman (E-3 ) in `76 but my specialty had nothing to do with the flight deck, so I forgot everything. Thanks for the refresher.

[@lancelot1953]

Hi "X-planed", great video, well "explained" (no pun intended). Time mark 10:05... When the shooter gives you (the pilot), the run-up signal, the pilot advances the throttle(s) to Military Rated Thrust (MRT) then checks all of his engine instruments and looks for "Caution light/Master Caution/Malfunction indication(s). Then, the pilot "wipes" the controls ensuring that they are "free". During that time, the final checkers ensure that the control surfaces have full deflection, nothing is hanging from the aircraft, and give a thumbs up signal. Once the pilot is satisfied of his instruments/control checks, he sharply salutes the Shooter, putting his hands on the controls or canopy rail (depending on aircraft) and back his head in the ejection seat headrest. Once the Shooter has received the "OK" salute from the pilot (checking that the pilot head is indeed in the headrest), he points to each trouble shooter/final checker/catapult operators looking for thumbs up, check that the forward deck is clear then taps the deck pointing the fingers towards the bow ~firing a gun. If something goes wrong, the catapult officer will give the suspend signal (arms raised above head crossing the wrists) and walk in front of the aircraft once the catapult has been "untensioned", the pilot remains at MRT until told otherwise by the shooter (in case the catapult fires). There it goes! Catapult shots are fun and make you feel like a "real Naval Aviator"; it is coming back to the carrier that is the "humbling experience" (if not a killer) especially when launching at night or in bad weather! Ciao, L

[@x-planed]

Wow, thanks for this awesome comment Dude!:)

[@alanhutchins5916]

What the main reason for 'Aborts' at the catapult today???

[@lancelot1953]

@@alanhutchins5916 Hi Alan, I am not sure what you mean by "today" but to make it simple, you have two main types of reasons: Aircraft and Catapult/ship. Aircraft: Once the pilot salutes the "Shooter", he is "committed" and braces for the shot, left hand on the throttle(s)/throttle grip, right hand on the joystick/canopy rail, head in the ejection seat head rest, looking ahead. He may have a "Master Caution Light" lighting up, an engine spooling down, fire, etc... in which case the pilot will shake his head from side to side "no" and transmit on the radio (radio button is on the throttle lever) to abort. No matter what, he remains at MRT. Final checkers may see something coming down/dropping from the aircraft (leak, panel, smoke, fuel tank, ordnance...)... Catapult: The catapult may fail to generate the full pressure ("cold cat") which in theory would not break the link holding the aircraft back or worse break the link but "peter out" as the aircraft is moving down the track. Ship: Something/somebody including parts may obstruct the catapult track/path. It gets very, very "hairy" to be sitting at MRT knowing something is wrong, waiting for the catapult to be "untensioned" i.e. safe... Hope it helps, Happy Thanksgiving! Ciao, L

[@alanhutchins5916]

@@lancelot1953 as operational checks and balances and system reliability improves....in aircraft and the ship, the chances of an abort are minimised from past statistics......I am asking what is the majority reason for aborts these days....is is catapult system malfunctions more often than say Aircraft 'problems' as you describe......even before tension and MRT......regardless thanks for the response...Happy TG.

[@lancelot1953]

@@alanhutchins5916 Hi Alan, if you mean the new Electro-Magnetic Aircraft Launch System (EMALS), this is after my days. I know that the Navy is having issues with this systems for the time being (like any new technologies); they will work it out. On steam-powered catapults, which is what I "experienced", and which are still in use on older carriers, the most common catapult-related "Abort" call would be insufficient and/or loss pressure in the catapult steam/piston system. This is a rare occurrence but is more likely to happen starting flight ops on cold days - this is why they warm up the system by cycling the catapult several times before actual flight ops. Understand that before the aircraft takes "tension", the catapult is "safe". Catapult control people have their arms in the air (meaning that they are not touching any controls). Once the pilot salutes (i.e. aircraft is "OK" from the pilot's perspective) and the final checkers have their "thumbs up", and the ramp is clear, the shooter gives the signal to "shoot". The catapult shooter presses the button and the pressure builds in the cylinder until the hold-back breaks, releasing the aircraft down the ramp. Once the hold-back breaks, the aircraft goes, even if he gets a "cold cat shot", the unfortunate pilot has to fly in ground effect (if sufficient speed) or more likely eject, which is not good with a 64,000 tons carrier behind you! Ciao, L

[@AlexGoh]

this is the most informative youtube I watched this year . great job mate !

[@x-planed]

Wow thanks Mate😉

[@chrisneumann4202]

Very well done. The only point I'd like to make is that the Plane Captains signals vary from aircraft to aircraft. For example, the plane I worked on, the A-6E, did not have an APU so we didn't use that one, but overall the signals and sequence of events (which I still remember in order some 30-years later) have more similarities than differences. That being said, rotary and fixed wing signals are very different not only for the PC's but for the deck handlers. If you were to take all the nuances between rotary and fixed wing, PC's and deck handlers, plus the equivalences of doing it at night with wands the video would be probably 3-4x longer. 🙂

[@x-planed]

Thanks for the comment Mate😉

[@CapitaineNautilus]

Excellent video. Very clear and well explained.

[@x-planed]

Thanks Mate😉

[@soupnazi8061]

Wow! I love this video, thank you for making this.

[@x-planed]

Thanks very much:)

[@jmtiptonengland]

Thank you: you’ve answered a lot of my questions

[@x-planed]

You’re welcome😉

[@Hey_MikeZeroEcho22P]

'X-planed' ..... a GREAT video! I understand you completely, though some of the images are hard to tell, but I get it!! I am a model ship-builder of 1/700 scale ships, and this video Should come in handy when I start populating the deck of my models!! Thanks for the post!! Good Job!!!

[@x-planed]

Thanks Mate. Apreciate it😉

[@michaelharris8228]

I've seen this with my own eyes, and it's still fascinating!

[@im1sickpup269]

Thanks, always wondered what all the hand signals meant. Buddy of mine was deployed in the early 80s so I knew the jersey thing. Quick shout out to @Michael Mappin - Thanks for your service, some of us appreciate it.

[@dang25272549]

I'm not sure this video is one of a kind in a world of KZbin BUT I just wanna say thank you for a whole details in it . This made me a lot more understand what a bunch of cool guys are doing up there ! 👍😁.

[@x-planed]

Thank You. I apreciate it:)

[@tac-cobserver3788]

This is one of the most dangerous and Cool Job in the world The Aircraft Carrier Deck Crew It's really complex 🤙

[@psycoticreaction9135]

Excellent....THANK YOU I am gonna watch this a few more times!!!!

[@ReflectedSimulations]

Thanks for making this video, great explanation of how it all works. Would be nice to have a 2nd part for recoveries.

[@x-planed]

Thanks. I'm thinking about it:)

[@arnocoetzee2769]

I enjoyed this very much. Thank you for making this video

[@x-planed]

Thanks Mate:)

[@Mark-m9z4q]

Those manning the flight deck have incredible professionalism, courage, and trust. I was on the crew of a fast attack submarine and I believe the Mess Specialists had used some of those hand signals while preparing and serving meals. As an example they sometimes used crossed arms followed by a ladling motion to indicate, "No soup for you!"

[@julwiezdeghorz5089]

Wow! Overwhelming! Good job. Nice video!

[@x-planed]

Thanks Mate:)

[@tanjongmalim6869]

US carriers are a class of its own ... Great respect to the country and the asset and the people who makes the asset a force to reckon with!

[@retired5218]

Excellent job with this video. You can enjoy videos much more when you know what is going on and what all is involved.

[@x-planed]

Thank You

[@mixtape9123]

Can we all just agree being in charge of helping launch aircraft (shooters) probably feels badass!

[@switchblade800x3]

It looks badass but i'm not jealous of them. That job is not to underestimate. I read in a comment before of a former shooter that they do shifts of 12 hours a day with very less sleep and its heavy and very dirty work.

[@mixtape9123]

@@switchblade800x3 you call it lack of sleep I call it mental training

[@switchblade800x3]

@@mixtape9123 That's a good mentality to join the Navy, but its not for everyone.

[@Osmone_Everony]

Thanks, the was exactly what I was looking for. Educating, informative and well presented. 👍🏻👍🏻

[@bernardanderson3758]

I want to thank all the men and women aboard to be safe and working together as well and it shows that each person has a different role

[@reefkeepingandeverythingelse]

Nice video! Hope you make More AND your channel grows

[@x-planed]

Sure. Another video just dropped. Check it out Mate and thanks for the comment:)

[@882952]

Great little video, I've always wanted to know what all those hand signals are. Even as a non-mil, non-pilot, I can obviously see there is so much information needing to be passed between so many people, and with all the moving people and heavy machinery constantly present, the cost of any mistake could be as high as the death of someone. It's a fast-paced environment mixing small, soft humans and large, powerful, heavy machines. I have a friend who was Navy, and he told me a story of how a female pilot once had to scrub her launch because as she sat at the catapult, she went to put on her gloves, and discovered a fingernail missing. Protocol demanded that the plane be rolled back out and searched to find the foreign article, so they did. They got as far as removing some of the flooring of the cockpit and they found that damn fingernail!

[@bikeny]

I'm thinking gee it's a nice sunny day. They make it look real easy. Then my mind goes to Nighttime, stormy seas, crashing waves and you've still got to get planes launched. Oh by the way, we've got a few coming in now. Talk about a high-pressure job. Remind me not to complain. Great video. Thank you to all the service members.

[@smalldoggymike]

My dream job was to be a shooter since I was a kid, but I was born in a country with no aircraft carrier 😅 thank you for this video showing the signals and explanations

[@switchblade800x3]

Same here. They only fly the F-16's and have no special aircraft fleet in the navy. I live in a boring country.

[@firemustang6678]

This job was awesome... Why??? Because in this job you must memorized all those signals... The uniform, the fingers and the maths... OUTSTANDING

[@chrisneumann4202]

...and after 30-years you'd be surprised how much you retain. And also why some folks are being a little dickish in their review. Was this video 100% correct? No, but that's ok. You can only learn by doing it and repeating the same steps over and over and over and over...

[@TheLegend-yl6eu]

It’s really amazing that with so many checks and safety measures in place prior to take off, frequency of planes on carrier still launch faster than commercial airports. Respect Edit: hmm I don’t really agree with commercial flight has more passenger that’s why it’s slower statement. Yes it’s true but let say fully load a plan with 100 passenger takes 60mins, what if there are 30 planes doing so concurrently?Theoretically every 2mins one plane can take off? But that’s not happening… I’m not a pro in this area so if any one knows please share your experience 🤣

[@x-planed]

100% agree:)

[@chrismaggio7879]

Keep in mind though that the passenger list is rarely more than two, so boarding is much quicker... and their "luggage" is mostly carry on, so yeah, it's much quicker than a land based airport.

[@ereder1476]

@@chrismaggio7879 plus the fact that an international airport is oftent way, way more busier...

[@kallewirsch2263]

A plane starting every 2 minutes is far to less for a commercial airport during rush hours. Eg. Frankfurt has 104 to 106 starts per hour. The plan in 2019 was to bring that number up to 126 per hour. That is 1 start/landing every 30 seconds (on 2 and a half runways - granted)

[@warringtonminge4167]

@@kallewirsch2263 2 1/2 runways at Frankfurt is for pussies, carriers have 4 cats🤣

[@margotrosendorn6371]

There is something intensely satisfying in watching crews and heavy machinery working smoothly

[@SinisterKoala]

I just swore in to be an ABH hopefully I can become a yellow jacket and direct that would be amazing im excited ship out on valentines 2022 wish me luck and any advice would be appreciated.

[@x-planed]

Wow that’s awesome dude. Congratulations! Good luck

[@aanon5716]

very interesting.having watched a few aircraft carrier take off vids, i always wondered what all the signaling meant. THX!

[@SilverHwk7]

Closed fist with thumbs outward moving apart means wheel chocks are removed. They won't unfold wings until they are near the catapult.

[@x-planed]

Thanks for Your feedback:)

[@trottheblackdog]

That makes sense as the high angle nose wheel steering is disabled when the wings are extended.

[@nihadjariri9439]

Captivating. Brilliant. Thanks.

[@x-planed]

Thanks Mate. Hope You subscribed😉

[@YewToobComment]

Red Jersey = fire crew. Red Jersey w/ black vertical stripe = Aviation Ordnancemen. Two separate jobs. One doesn't double as the other.

[@OrdieBob]

IYAOYAS

[@YewToobComment]

@@OrdieBob fuck yea

[@josecastro3833]

Thanks m8 for explaining. I was wondering what all those signals meant. Useful video!!

[@x-planed]

Thanks Mate:)

[@gigibanks5258]

My daughter is a plane captain. We pray for her pilots safety daily. 💕🇺🇸⚓️

[@donnarupert4926]

@Gigi Banks….May God bless and protect them ALWAYS 🙋🏽‍♀️💕🛫

[@gigibanks5258]

@@donnarupert4926 I thank you with all my heart. Merry Christmas!

[@showtime951]

Thank you. So many mysteries solved and questions answered. This would not be the sandbox for those who don't play well with others. "You ever put your life in another man's hands, ask him to put his life into yours?", "We follow orders. We follow orders or people die. It's that simple!"

[@x-planed]

You’re welcome😉 thanks for Your comment