Episode 16: The Hauler: Air Mobility, Tactical Airlift, and the CC-130J Super Hercules - Skye
Jun 20, 2023
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The podcast features Skye, a pilot in the Royal Canadian Air Force, discussing her experiences flying Canada's tactical airlift fleet and overcoming challenges. She shares stories about landing by an active volcano, taking part in evacuations during wildfires, and the importance of competence, confidence, and humility in being a good pilot.
Landing on a destroyed part of the runway in Iraq was a wakeup call for the pilot, highlighting the importance of teamwork and resilience.
Participating in the Open Skies mission provided a unique opportunity to fly low over busy airspace in the UK and foster diplomatic relations.
Open and honest communication with the crew was crucial in overcoming the fear and trauma of a terrifying landing experience in Northern Iraq.
Deep dives
Deployment to the Middle East
During the deployment to the Middle East in support of Op Impact, the experience was overall amazing. The pilot felt at the top of their game, with a sharp crew and plenty of flying. There were some exciting moments, especially navigating a blended environment of civilian and military air traffic control. However, the most frightening moment came during a landing in Iraq, where the aircraft touched down on a destroyed part of the runway. It was a close call and a wakeup call for the pilot, but with the reassurance and support of the crew, they were able to bounce back and continue the tour successfully.
Memorable Flights on the J-Model
The most memorable flight for the pilot was part of the Open Skies mission, where Western and Eastern nations could fly over each other's airspace and take pictures. During a practice route in the UK, the pilot and their team had the freedom to choose their route and flew over various locations. The experience was diplomatic and the pilot felt like a visiting nation, with the British treating them well. It was a unique opportunity to fly low level over busy airspace, exploring different areas of the UK.
Close Call Landing on a Destroyed Runway
During a deployment to Northern Iraq, the pilot had a terrifying moment when their J-Model aircraft landed on a destroyed part of the runway. Despite being only a few feet off from the designated touchdown zone, there were no damages or injuries. It was a wakeup call for the pilot, who initially struggled with revisiting the incident. However, with open and honest communication with the crew, they were able to move forward and share the experience to promote awareness of complacency and the potential risks involved in flying operations.
Formation Flights and Training for Aircraft Commanders
A key aspect of training for aircraft commanders is conducting formation flights, even with night vision goggles. The CAPSKE system, or computer assisted position station keeping equipment, enables linking of multiple aircraft for hands-off flying in IMC conditions. Formation flying is an essential skill to prevent skill fade, and it involves constant communication, instrument monitoring, and visual cues.
Check Flights and Upgrades in the Flying Program
To upgrade in the flying program, pilots undergo two check rides: strategic and tactical. Strategic flights involve operational missions where the pilot flies from point A to B, often focused on international missions or specific locations like the Arctic. Tactical checkouts, on the other hand, are conducted locally and include air drops and air land events. Both types of check flights assess the pilot's abilities in different aspects of their mission requirements.
What is it like to fly Canada’s tactical airlift fleet? How about showing up as the fleet’s only female pilot (at the time)? How does it feel to land by an active volcano, or to explore the globe on one of Canada’s busiest fleets?
After flying all around the world as well as instructing on the CC-130J Super Hercules, Skye has been there, done that, and thrived in the RCAF.
Skye will talk about why a stick of gum and a whole lot of knowledge can get you out of almost any situation. She’ll also talk about taking part in evacuations during Alberta’s wildfires, overcoming imposter syndrome, and how she overcame the biggest scare of her flying career through openness and honesty.
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