LJDRVR
Well-known member
- Joined
- Nov 26, 2001
- Posts
- 1,134
Gorilla said:This brings up a question I've always had... are private high-performance ex-military jets normally maintained with a functional ejection system? The reason this intrigues me is that ejection/egress is a highly specialized and labor-intensive form of maintenance. You are dealing with rockets, parachutes, and explosive belts and seat kickers. Probably requires a dangerous or hazardous materials license just to maintain the spares for the seat in your hangar.
As mentioned by a previous poster, there is one company and several individuals that will perform egress maintenance. The most difficult aspect is obtaining the rocket cartridges. Sourcing can be difficult and the BATF folks get involved with the paperwork. Interestingly enough, once the devices are installed in the seat, the ATF people could care less. They are very concerned about storage before that point.
It amazes me that the folks that purchase these aircraft don't take them seriouslly. Most jet warbirds are maintained without live seats, which simply astounds me. If it can't be deadsticked into a field without killing you, spend the money and have the seats.
R.I.P. for the pilot. Sad stuff.