When should a ground crew stop the aircraft in sling-load operations?

When should a ground crew stop the aircraft in sling-load operations?

• A. Never stop
• B. When hazards are observed or risk becomes unacceptable, per SOP
• C. After completing the lift
• D. Only when commanded by the pilot

Answer: (B)

In sling-load operations, the ground crew must halt the operation whenever hazards are observed or the risk becomes unacceptable, and do so in accordance with the SOP. Ground crew are on the ground to spot issues the pilot might not see—things like entanglement, rigging faults, load sway, obstacles on the ground, or adverse weather—and stopping immediately prevents injuries or damage. This authority to stop is part of the safety framework, ensuring corrective steps can be taken before continuing. Waiting until after the lift or only acting on the pilot’s command would increase the risk, so the best practice is to stop whenever risk is present or becomes unacceptable, per SOP.

In sling-load operations, the ground crew must halt the operation whenever hazards are observed or the risk becomes unacceptable, and do so in accordance with the SOP. Ground crew are on the ground to spot issues the pilot might not see—things like entanglement, rigging faults, load sway, obstacles on the ground, or adverse weather—and stopping immediately prevents injuries or damage. This authority to stop is part of the safety framework, ensuring corrective steps can be taken before continuing. Waiting until after the lift or only acting on the pilot’s command would increase the risk, so the best practice is to stop whenever risk is present or becomes unacceptable, per SOP.