Aviation Preflight Indoctrination - The API Helo Dunker

The infamous API helo dunker. The mockup consists of 8 seats, only 6 of which are used; this is to keep mayhem under control and keep trainees from getting in the way of the divers should the divers have had to rescue anyone from the dunker. The layout is something like this: there are two front seats, where the "pilot" and "copilot" would be sitting. There's a bulkhead behind the front seats; mounted to that are two seats facing the rear of the mockup. There are two pairs of seats aft of those that face inward. There are 3 points of escape: a window that the "pilot" opens; a hatch panel that the left rear passenger opens and pushes out; lastly, there's a pull-in window that the right rear passenger pulls in. The "pilot" and "copilot" escape via the pilot's escape hatch; the aft 4 seat occupants escape via the escape points at the aft end of the trainer.

Category:

Education

Tags:

• API
• dunker
• helo
• escape
• trainer
• helicopter
• water
• survival
• training
• Pensacola
• aviation
• Navy
• Marine Corps
• Air Force
• military

[VicariousRider]

@TheAviator789 I don't rightly know about survival training for the civilian sector, this training is designed for aircrew aboard military aircraft. Regardless of platform we all go through the helo dunker to simulate escape from a helicopter that crash-lands in the water.

[TheAviator789]

Im going for cabin crew training in the next few months. Is this drill compulsory for all airline pilots and crew?

[VicariousRider]

@vulcan6gun Amen to that!

[vulcan6gun]

My son's all wet! :-)

Good info on the simulator, and a hearty 'well done' to all the trainees. May none of you ever have to make such an escape in the field.