Flight deck

French aircraft carrier Charles de Gaulle (R91) underway on 24 April 2019 (190424-M-BP588-1005)

World Navy Aircraft carries chart

Colorado (Armored Cruiser 7), renamed the Pueblo. Port side, underway, 09-1907

HMS Argus (1917)

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시승함인 독도함의 모습과 해상사열을 참관중인 국민 참관단의 모습 (1) (22055340289)

Flight Deck refers to the upper deck of an aircraft carrier, the primary surface from which its aircraft take off and land. The concept of the flight deck has evolved significantly since the inception of naval aviation, transforming from the simple flat decks of early carriers to the complex, highly technical surfaces seen on modern naval vessels. The flight deck is a critical component of aircraft carrier operations, serving as a bustling hub for the launching, recovery, and maintenance of aircraft.

Design and Features

The design of a flight deck is influenced by the types of aircraft it supports, the missions the carrier is designed for, and the technology available at the time of the carrier's construction. Modern flight decks are equipped with a variety of features to facilitate efficient aircraft operations, including catapults for launching aircraft, arresting wires for recovery, and a ski-jump on some carriers to assist with short take-off but arrested recovery (STOBAR) operations.

Catapult Assisted Take-Off But Arrested Recovery (CATOBAR)

CATOBAR is a system used on some aircraft carriers that utilizes a catapult mechanism to launch aircraft and arresting wires to catch and stop aircraft during recovery. This system allows for the operation of a wide variety of aircraft, including heavy fixed-wing aircraft.

Short Take-Off but Arrested Recovery (STOBAR)

STOBAR carriers combine a ski-jump ramp at the flight deck's forward end for launching aircraft with arresting wires for recovery. This system is simpler than CATOBAR and is typically used for lighter, more maneuverable aircraft.

Vertical/Short Take-Off and Landing (V/STOL)

Some carriers are designed to support V/STOL aircraft, which can take off and land vertically or on short runways. These carriers often have simpler, straight deck designs without the need for catapults or arresting wires.

Operations

Flight deck operations are meticulously planned and executed to ensure the safety of personnel and aircraft. Operations include launching and recovering aircraft, refueling and rearming aircraft, and conducting maintenance. The flight deck is known for its hazardous environment, requiring crew members to wear protective gear and follow strict safety protocols.

Air Traffic Control

The air traffic control (ATC) team on an aircraft carrier manages the movement of aircraft on the flight deck and in the airspace around the carrier. The ATC team coordinates launches and recoveries, maintains safe separation between aircraft, and manages any emergencies that occur.

Flight Deck Crew

The flight deck crew includes a variety of specialized roles, each critical to the operation of the flight deck. These roles include catapult and arresting gear operators, aircraft handlers, fuel handlers, and ordnance technicians. The crew is distinguished by colored jerseys that indicate their specific roles.

Safety

Safety on the flight deck is of paramount importance due to the inherent risks of operating high-performance aircraft in a confined space. Safety measures include extensive training, the use of personal protective equipment (PPE), and strict adherence to operational procedures. Despite these precautions, the flight deck is still one of the most dangerous working environments.

Future Developments

The future of flight deck design and operations is likely to see continued technological advancements, including the increased use of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and automation to enhance safety and efficiency. Innovations such as electromagnetic catapult systems and advanced arresting gear are already being implemented on the newest carriers, indicating the ongoing evolution of flight deck capabilities.