One of the largest egress systems in existance, is the F-111 Crew Escape Module.
Containing the complete two man side by side cockpit, its instrumentation, the
stabilization glove, a rocket system, and a recovery system including a
parachute, impact attenuation bags and flotation bags. Weighing in at 3000 pounds,
this capsule is a heavyweight in many ways.
This particular sample was ejected from a crashing F-111D at Cannon AFB, New Mexico. After its safe recovery of the crew, the capsule was stripped of usable parts, then relagated to a secondary function as a flotation egress trainer. The capsule was trucked to a swimming pool on the base, and placed in the water for crews to drill with the flotation bags, bilge pump and for water egress. It served in this function for several years, being patched up several times, partially filled with foam to keep it from sinking completely. After it's service, it was eventually released to a museum which is starting up in the Dallas/Ft. Worth area. The capsule was stripped of the foam, torn down to bare metal, repaired, re-primed, and reassembled. Parts were located, seats were recovered, new glass for the windows was located and installed. Now, the capsule travels to schools and airshows where it is used to teach people about the egress systems of the F-111.
This capsule is soon to be joined by three more F-111 and EF-111 capsules, which are either restored, or in the process of being restored.
Thanks to an Chris Woodul, Curator of the Jet Age Museum, for the pictures of his F-111D Capsule
| The Ejection Site Home | |
|---|---|
| Send email to Kevin |
