5-18. Aircraft
The lack of ground communication routes in the northern latitudes causes an extensive use of air transportation. Both fixed-wing and rotary-wing type aircraft are used. Troops and supplies may be transported from one existing or improvised airfield to another. In some situations both supply and evacuation by air may be the only feasible method. Bad weather may limit air operations for short periods of time.
a. Fixed-Wing. The vast stretches of the northern regions can be reconnoitered with a minimum time and effort by liaison fixed-wing aircraft. The ability of the ski-equipped aircraft to land on frozen lakes, streams, and in open fields in winter affords advantages and opportunities to supplement the ground reconnaissance. In addition to reconnaissance, fixed-wing aircraft are used to supplement the overland movement of troops and supplies, evacuation, and many other purposes.
b. Rotary-Wing. The dominant characteristics of this type craft, such as vertical ascent and descent and requirement for short landing areas, make it valuable for reconnaissance, evacuation, troop movements, command control, resupply, and many other types of missions. Aviators must exercise caution when hovering over loose snow as it may swirl up and cause loss of visual reference.
5-19. Airfields
There are many potential landing sites in the area of northern operations. Runways can be constructed by grading and compacting snow. In general, airplanes equipped with skis require about 15 percent more landing and takeoff space than those equipped with wheels. Aircraft can use airfields constructed on frozen lakes and rivers, after a suitable ice reconnaissance has been made (FM 31-71). Design criteria for Pioneer, Hasty, and Deliberate Army airfields and heliports are listed in TM 6330. As a rule of thumb for planning purposes, the airfield for liaison type aircraft (0-1 and U-6) should be a minimum of 30 meters (30 yards) wide and 400 meters (400 yards) long. Refer to the Flight Handbook for exact landing and takeoff distances of various aircraft.
