The complex start up process of a Spanish EF-18M Hornet fighter seen from very close

@DefAviation ES 6·21·2023 · 6:01 0

Starting up a combat aircraft and putting it into flight is a complex process that requires following very specific steps with no exceptions.

A Spanish Air Force mechanic explains the red ribbons of 'Remove before flight'
A video shows the process of removing an engine from a Spanish EF-18M Hornet fighter

This Tuesday, the YouTube channel V1 Aeronautics published an excellent video that shows this process, specifically with one of the EF-18M of the 12th Wing of the Air Force, based in Torrejón de Ardoz: the C.15-51 (12-04). It is one of the best videos that have been published dedicated to these steps prior to takeoff in these Spanish fighters, not only because of the high quality of its image (the plane is seen very closely) but also because of its great sound quality. Turn up the speakers and enjoy the roar of the two turbofans that make this fantastic fighter fly:

Here we can see three screenshots of this video as a preview. In the first we see the visual examination that the pilot does before each flight, in addition to the checks carried out by the ground personnel. The pilot even checks the inside of the engine nozzles and landing gear compartments, as seen in the video.

One of the most interesting moments of the video: the pilot putting on and adjusting a Thales Scorpion HMCS type helmet, which is replacing the old HGU-55 helmets of the Spanish EF-18M pilots. If you want to know more about the Scorpion, last year Gaceta Aeronáutica he dedicated an interesting and comprehensive article to it (in Spanish).

The EF-18M with the in-flight refueling probe deployed, as part of the systems checks that are done before takeoff.

Congratulations to the author of the video. It is a real gem.