1-31
Operational Issues: CASEVAC with Fixed Winged Aircraft
Lt Col (sel) Kevin Riley, USAF, MSC
The capability of fixed-wing aircraft to land or take off from selected small, unprepared areas permit the
evacuation of patients from AOs which would be inaccessible to larger aircraft. These aircraft can fly slowly
and maintain a high degree of maneuverability. This capability further enhances their value in forward areas
under combat conditions. Small fixed-wing aircraft are limited in speed and range as compared with larger
transport-type aircraft. When adequate airfields are available, fixed-wing aircraft may be used in forward
areas for patient evacuation. This is a secondary mission for these aircraft, which will be used only to
augment dedicated air ambulance capabilities.
Figure 1-7: Marking and Lighting of Airplane LZ (Day)
Parking Area
Taxiway
Tr ees
Wind
Direction
Control Center
ID
Code
2/3 Length
1/3 Length
Departure End
Takeoff
or
Landing Direction
Approach End
4
4
4
4
5
5
2 3
2
1
1
1
3
1 3
3
3
3
LEGEND
Wind "1" Tw o Panels High and
Tw o Panels Wide
- Ta il of "1" Pointed
Downwind
Wind Sock
Signal Panel -
Orange
Signal Panel -
Red
Smoke
(if used) Ground to A ir Radio
NOTE: Numbers within panels
indicate priority of establishment.