Based on the remote probability of an event occurring requiring ejection from the aircraft and pilot weight considerations, the airworthiness authorities recommended and the Air Force has accepted continuation of flight for pilots falling within the 136 to 165 pound range. The Air Force has accepted risk of similar magnitude in previous ejection seats. While the probability of an ejection in this slow speed regime remains very low, estimated at one in 100,000 flight hours, the risk of a critical injury in that circumstance is currently higher than legacy fighter ejection seats. There is also an elevated level of risk for pilots between 136 and 165 pounds. An unacceptable level of risk was discovered for pilots weighing less than 136 pounds.Īir Force leaders decided that as an interim solution, no pilot less than 136 pounds will be allowed to fly the aircraft until the problem is resolved. The requirement is for the seat to be certified for any pilot weighing between 103 and 245 pounds. In a recent test, analysis identified an unacceptable risk of neck injury during parachute deployment/opening for lighter-weight pilots at low-speed conditions. The manufacturer of the seat has been conducting tests to ensure the escape system works reliably and safely in all planned conditions. WASHINGTON (AFNS) - Air Force leaders recently made a decision to restrict pilots weighing less than 136 pounds from flying the F-35A Lightning II due to safety concerns about the ejection seat in a portion of the flight envelope.
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