What is the correct method of strapping in?
Ensure straps are correctly routed and that they are as tight as comfortably possible.
Which is the best harness, Simplified Combined (SCH) or Torso?
We prefer to offer the SCH as it means that any person with the anthropometric seat range can strap in – the torso has to be fitted to the individual pilot.
At what height can the seat be used whilst inverted?
Approximately 300 feet.
Why are pilots sometimes advised not to taxi with the canopy open?
When using one of our ground-level capable seats, there is a real danger when the seat or pilot contacts the canopy – serious injury or death can occur.
When flying with an older seat, which firing handle should be considered as the primary means of initiation?
The face screen firing handle (top of the seat), as this offers best posture for the back and also protection for the face from windblast and so on.
Why does the pilot sometimes strap-in with go-forward unlocked and sometimes with it locked?
This depends on the type of harness fitted, as earlier generations require harnesses to be locked, whereas later harnesses need to be unlocked.
What is the permissible weight range of a particular seat?
All of our ejection seats are qualified to operate within a certain “envelope” (range) which will provide a specific anthropometric range.
Is the pilot allowed to utilise an extra cushion in order to aid personal comfort?
No! This would alter the qualification data and increase the Dynamic Response Index (DRI) which, effectively, is the amount of force imparted during ejection.
Is the pilot cleared to fly with an iPad or similar strapped to their thigh?
No! Adding unqualified equipment can have serious implications should ejection take place.
Is it okay to loosen the shoulder straps during flight, especially on long sorties?
No! In the event of an ejection taking place, the occupant will probably not have time to retighten the straps prior to seat operation and serious injury may occur.