SIFT SIFT Emergency Procedures and Safety Questions and Answers

Question 1

What is the first action a helicopter pilot should take when experiencing a complete engine failure?

Accepted Answer

Lower collective pitch immediately to enter autorotation

Answer

Immediately radio a MAYDAY and await instructions

Answer

Apply maximum collective to slow descent

Answer

Attempt an engine restart before taking any other action

Question 2

What is 'autorotation' in helicopter emergency procedures?

Accepted Answer

A flight condition where the rotor is driven by airflow rather than the engine, allowing a controlled descent

Answer

An automatic stabilization system that prevents rotor overspeed

Answer

A procedure where the copilot takes over flight controls automatically

Answer

An emergency engine restart procedure using rotor momentum

Question 3

What does the term 'LZ' mean in Army aviation emergency contexts?

Accepted Answer

Landing Zone — a pre-selected area for helicopter landing or extraction

Answer

Low Zone — a designated low-altitude flight corridor

Answer

Loss Zone — an area with known navigation signal interference

Answer

Logistics Zone — a supply area near the forward line of troops

Question 4

What is the correct squawk code a pilot should set when declaring an emergency?

Accepted Answer

7700

Answer

7600

Answer

7500

Answer

1200

Question 5

What is the primary hazard of 'wire strike' during low-level Army helicopter operations?

Accepted Answer

Utility wires are difficult to see and can entangle or sever rotor blades and fuselage components

Answer

Electrical arcing that ignites rotor blades

Answer

Radio interference caused by proximity to high-voltage lines

Answer

Magnetic deviation affecting navigation instruments

Question 6

When executing a precautionary landing due to low fuel, what factor is most important in selecting a landing site?

Accepted Answer

Ensuring enough fuel remains for a go-around if the site proves unsuitable

Answer

Proximity to a military installation

Answer

Landing into the wind regardless of terrain obstacles

Answer

Choosing the largest open area visible from altitude