Mid-Air Collision Survival: A Pilot's Step-by-Step Guide to Safe Ejection

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On a clear day at the Mountain Home Air Force Base airshow, two EA-18G Growler electronic attack aircraft collided in a dramatic, heart-stopping moment. Both pilots ejected safely, thanks to split-second decisions and rigorous training. This guide walks through the critical steps that every pilot follows when faced with an unavoidable mid-air collision—based on real-world procedures that turned potential tragedy into a survival story.

What You Need

• Properly functioning ejection seat (e.g., Martin-Baker US18LE seat with zero-zero capability)
• Parachute and survival kit pre-packed and tested
• Egress and emergency checklist memorized
• Two‑way radio for last‑minute warnings
• Full flight gear: helmet, oxygen mask, G‑suit, harness
• Emergency locator beacon (ELT/PLB) attached
• Proficiency in parachute landing fall

Step-by-Step Ejection Procedure

1. Step 1: Recognize the Imminent Collision

   The first millisecond of a mid‑air threat is critical. Pilots train to scan constantly, especially during formation or airshow maneuvers. In the Mountain Home incident, both aviators saw the other aircraft closing faster than reaction time allowed. The key is to accept the collision is unavoidable—there is no time for second thoughts.

   

2. Step 2: Execute Immediate Evasive Maneuvers (If Possible)

   If even a fraction of a second remains, yank the control stick in any direction that increases separation. But the rule is: below 2,000 feet or with less than half a second, skip this and go straight to ejection. In the Growler case, both pilots likely attempted a last‑second roll before the impact.

3. Step 3: Activate the Ejection Sequence

   Reach down between your legs (in most U.S. Navy/USMC aircraft) and pull the yellow‑and‑black striped handle firmly. The ejection seat’s gas cartridge will fire, firing a telescoping tube that rockets you upward. The entire sequence from pull to canopy clearance takes about 0.3 seconds. Ensure your elbows are tucked and your head pressed back against the headrest.

4. Step 4: Assume Correct Body Position

   As the seat propels you out, keep your back straight, legs together and slightly bent, arms hugging the seat’s side panels. This posture prevents spinal compression and flailing injuries. The seat’s stabilization drogue will deploy automatically to prevent tumbling.

5. Step 5: Separate from the Ejection Seat

   After the seat has cleared the aircraft and the drogue chute has slowed your descent, the seat’s sequencer will fire a harness release. You must push away from the seat immediately—otherwise you’ll be dragged down with it. The separation typically happens at an altitude of about 5,000–10,000 feet above ground, but can be as low as 500 feet in emergencies.

6. Step 6: Deploy the Main Parachute

   Your emergency parachute is attached to your chest. Once separated from the seat, pull the ripcord handle located on your right or left harness, depending on the system. In modern zero‑zero seats, the main chute is automatically deployed by the seat’s sequencer after separation. Check for a clean canopy—no twists. If twisted, reach up, grab the risers, and kick in the direction opposite the twist to untwist.

   

7. Step 7: Prepare for Landing

   Scan the ground below. If landing in a tree, protect your face with arms. Over water, release the parachute harness before impact to avoid being dragged. On hard ground, prepare to execute a parachute landing fall (PLF): relax your knees, roll sideways, and let your calves, thighs, hips, and shoulders absorb the impact sequentially. In the Mountain Home episode, both pilots landed in an open field without trees, allowing a straightforward landing.

8. Step 8: Post‑Ejection Survival Procedures

   Immediately after landing, unclip your parachute harness. Activate your emergency locator beacon (ELB) by pulling its antenna or pressing the switch. If you’re injured, remain still and signal with a whistle or mirror. If uninjured, gather your survival kit (which includes a radio, water, first aid, and signaling devices) and await rescue. Note your location: in a controlled area like an airshow, ground crews are likely already responding. Report to the nearest airshow safety officer.

Tips for Success

• Train under realistic conditions: Never skip ejection seat trainer sessions. The muscle memory developed in a simulator saved lives in Mountain Home.
• Check seat expiration dates: Ejection seats have service life limits; a maintained seat is 99% reliable, but an overdue one increases risk of malfunction.
• Communicate early: If you see a problem in formation, call it out over the radio. A two‑second warning in the Growler incident could have been enough to avoid the collision entirely.
• Stay calm: Panic tightens muscles and delays reaction. Breathing drills during pre‑flight can help.
• Know your terrain: During airshows, pilots are briefed on the local drop zone and emergency landing areas. Follow the pre‑briefed plan.
• Post‑ejection medical check: Even if you feel fine, get a full medical exam—ejection forces can cause hidden spine injuries.

By following these steps—rooted in real‑world events like the Mountain Home collision—the outcome can be survival. Both pilots walked away that day because they executed a perfect ejection drill under extreme stress. Your preparation is the difference between a headline and a recovery.

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