Air assault actions on

Brevity word: "Downed Bird" — A helicopter has crashed but may have survivors.

Actions on:

• Assume survivability unless visual evidence confirms otherwise.
• Assess the crash visually—speed, terrain, fireball size, etc.
• Identify cause (e.g. MANPAD, HMG, RPG) to inform immediate threat response.
• Transmit crash location, helo ID, and threat type to command and other pilots.
• If the threat is near the LZ, announce an LZ shift (e.g., “LZ shift 500m west”).
• Prioritize getting remaining troops on the ground—do not delay.
• Once troops are down, a helo may be tasked with visual recon of the crash site, only if the threat allows.
• Rescue of survivors is at the discretion of the Platoon Commander based on the tactical situation.

Brevity Word: "Wave Off" — Abort current landing attempt due to threat. 

• Evaluate the intensity and accuracy of enemy fire as helos approach.
• Continue the landing if:
  • Helos can safely land.
  • Infantry can dismount and effectively engage the enemy.
• If not, call for a shift or abort of the LZ immediately.
• Consider already-dismounted forces:
• Attempt to land nearby for support if another helo was shot down.
• Use flanking landings to avoid reinforcing into a kill zone.
• Ensure clear, fast communication of the change in plan to all aircraft.

Brevity Word: "Mayday" — Aircraft is in critical condition and must land.

• Identify the emergency:
  • Fuel leak – Plan a diversion to safer ground.
  • Tail rotor loss – Maintain high speed, land in a clear area outside hostile range.
  • Engine failure – Execute autorotation immediately.
• Announce the emergency over command net.
• Communicate intended landing location to assist recovery efforts.
• Upon landing:
  • Dismount troops and establish security immediately.
  • Use crew-served weapons if defensible.
  • Relay current position and status to command.
  • Set up a treatment zone if wounded are present.
  • Decide to hold the crash site or move to a better position, depending on threat and terrain.
• Resume the mission if feasible, or await orders.