Carrier Air Traffic Control Center (CATCC) Practice Exam

Designated deck spots for tilt-rotor operations are chosen to ensure a safe, unobstructed approach and enough clearance for the rotor downwash from a V-22. The two spots that are selected provide a straight, clear landing path with ample room around the pad, away from island structures, hangars, and other equipment, and they offer a straightforward taxi route to the ready area. This separation and clearance are essential because the tilt-rotor’s transition from vertical to horizontal flight and its powerful downwash require more space and fewer hazards on the deck. The other spots don’t meet these safety and operational requirements, either because they’re too close to island features or deck obstacles, or because they would place the rotor wash and aircraft in proximity to other operations.