Developments in Pilot’s Instructions for In-Flight Emergencies in Czechoslovak and Czech Republic Jet Combat Aircraft

Anotace: Fire on board an aircraft is one of the most serious incidents that may occur during operation. Ever since military jet combat aircraft were equipped with fire protection systems, flight manuals have included instructions to eliminate fire on board as part of the instructions for in-flight emergencies. Emergency abandonment thus was no longer the only and inevitable solution to the occurred situation. Over the sixty years of operation of military combat aircraft equipped with fire protection systems in Czechoslovakia and the Czech Republic, there has been a clearly discernible evolution also in instructing pilots in in-flight fire emergencies. These instructions reflect very well not only the progressive technical development of aircraft, but also the overall concept of safety in military aviation. This article presents a unique comprehensive overview of such emergency procedures, common features, differences and developments in Czechoslovak and Czech Republic military jet combat aircraft since 1951.