Expert: Heiko Hanusch - 11/30/2008

Question
QUESTION: What are the worst possible night flying conditions for a F-18 Hornet landing at night on an aircraft carrier?

ANSWER: Hi,

Well you mentioned one already...NIGHT then stormy, driving rain and lightning and low visibility with gusty winds... that pretty much describes it!...;-)

H2

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: What about refuling in midair how hard is it and what are the worst possible flying conditions for Refuling?

Answer
Hi Marina,

You really like the "WORST" conditions, don't you!
Refueling does take practice, but the Boom operator is really the one with the difficult job.
The F-18 has to maintain a pre-assigned speed and altitude.
Turbulence would be the worst condition here, because during lightning and moderate to heavy rain refueling is suspended (this is a visual maneuver).

Good Luck,
H2