d. A soldier can stand on the upwind side of the landing site and use the
directed beam of a signal lamp to flash a code to the incoming pilot. Once recognition is
assured, the signal operator directs the beam of light downwind along the ground,
5-33. ARM-AND-HAND SIGNALS
Once the pilot has located the landing area, a signalman can guide the pilot to
the touchdown site using standard arm-and-hand signals. The following assumes you
are a giving guidance to a Blackhawk or Iroquois air ambulance.
a. If the landing is being done at night or in decreased visibility, use lighted
batons or flashlights so the pilot can see your signals. A lighted wand can be made by
attaching a plastic wand to the end of a flashlight. Figures 5-27 through 5-33 show
lighted wands being used.
b. You should be to the right front of the helicopter so you can be easily seen by
the pilot. The best position is 40 meters to the right front of the helicopter during day or
night operations.
c. Extend your arms above your head (figure 5-26) to indicate you are going to
give arm-and-hand guidance signals.
d. Use the hover signal (figure 5-27) when changing from one arm-and-hand
signal to another. For example, suppose you are giving the helicopter pilot the "move
ahead" signal. The helicopter is now in position directly over the landing area. Before
giving the pilot the "move downward" signal, execute the "hover" signal to indicate a
change in guidance instruction.
e. Use the speed of your arm movements to indicate the desired speed of
aircraft compliance with the signal.
f. Execute the appropriate arm-and-hand signals (figures 5-27 through 5-33) as
needed until the helicopter has landed.
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