Function	Key Command
Tail Hook (Extend/Retract)	SHIFT+Q
Takeoff Assist (Arm/Disarm)	SHIFT+I
Launch Bar (Extend/Retract)	SHIFT+U
Takeoff Assist (Trigger)	SHIFT+SPACEBAR

Navigation

Take off from the carrier and remain in the area to land again.

Takeoff

After starting the engines and taxiing to the catapult at the bow of the aircraft carrier, lower the launch bar by pressing SHIFT+U.

When the nose gear and launch bar are near the red-and-white striped square at the near end of the catapult, press Shift +I to attach to the catapult shuttle.

Lower flaps to 1 for takeoff, apply full military power (approximately 75 percent power), and when ready to launch, press SHIFT+Spacebar.

Landing

The final approach speed is 130 knots with full flaps. Listen to the landing signal officer (LSO) for instructions and watch the landing approach lights (the "ball"), keeping the lights centered.

Check that the landing gear (press G)and tail hook (press SHIFT+Q) are down and then fly the aircraft onto the angled landing deck in a nose-high attitude at a descent rate of approximately 500-feet- per-minute (fpm) without flaring.

Before hitting the deck, apply full power. If the tail hook doesn't hook a cable, go around for another attempt. If the tail hook does hook a cable, reduce power to idle, raise the hook, and taxi away.

You can navigate in this mission by following the Mission Compass and Mission Pointer. For a more challenging experience, turn the Mission Compass and Mission Pointer off (press U).

Communications

Don't worry about the radios—just listen to the instructor.

Suggested Reading

To learn more about the skills you use in this mission, see the following articles in the Learning Center:

• "Boeing F/A-18 Aircraft Information"
• "Flying Jets"