Aircraft Photo of 164342 | Grumman F-14D Tomcat | USA - Navy | AirHistory.net #223911
Aircraft
Registration / Serial:164342
Military Code:AJ-100
Aircraft Original Type:Grumman F-14 Tomcat
Aircraft Generic Type:Grumman F-14 Tomcat
Aircraft Version:Grumman F-14D Tomcat
C/n (msn):617/D-22
Operator Titles:USA - Navy
Unit Markings:VF-31
Location
City / Area:Persian Gulf [ Off-Airport ]Map (vicinity)
Country:Not known
Ship / Rig:USS Theodore Roosevelt CVN71
 
Photo Date:18 October 2005
Photo by:Stephan de Bruijn
Photo ID: 223911
Photo Comment

Catching the number 4 wire at the TR. Aircraft usually go for the number 3 wire. Pilots are aiming for that wire, as it is the safest/most effective one. They never aim for the 1st because that one is dangerously close to the edge of deck. If they come in too low on the 1st wire, they could easily crash into the stern of the ship. It is acceptable to snag the 2nd or 4th wire, but for a pilot to move up through the ranks, he/she has to be able to catch the 3rd wire consistently. In the squadron room the achievement of each pilot is logged, catching too many times the wrong ones cost you beers

This photo is copyright © Stephan de Bruijn, and may not be used or published in any way without permission.

It was added on 13 March 2020, and has since been viewed 1393 times.


Submit Correction
Contact Photographer