Which set lists all components that comprise the proper tail hook configuration?

Which set lists all components that comprise the proper tail hook configuration?

• A. Net, Stanchion, Energy Absorber, Pendant Cable
• B. Net, Interconnect, Pendant Cable, Energy Absorber
• C. Net, Stanchion, Energy Absorber, Pendant Cable, Interconnect and Pretension Assembly
• D. Stanchion, Pendant Cable, Interconnect

Answer: (C)

A tail hook arresting setup must provide a complete load path from the aircraft through to the arresting gear, while controlling where and how the loads are absorbed and how the system returns to ready. Each component in the full configuration has a specific role that keeps the system safe and functional during a carrier landing. The net acts as a protective and guiding element around the hook area, helping to manage the interface with the arresting gear and protect the surrounding structure during engagement. The stanchion provides the structural support and mounting point for the tail hook assembly, keeping everything aligned with the aircraft. The energy absorber is the key element that dissipates the kinetic energy of the landing, reducing peak forces on the aircraft and the hook. The pendant cable carries the load from the tail hook to the energy absorber, forming the direct load path. The interconnect ensures proper linkage and coordination between components so the system works as a single, synchronized unit. The pretension assembly sets the initial tension in the system, keeping components properly preloaded so the hook returns to the correct position and remains ready for the next use. Leaving any one of these parts out would break the load path or compromise energy management and positioning, making the configuration incomplete and unsafe. That’s why this complete set—net, stanchion, energy absorber, pendant cable, interconnect, and pretension assembly—is the correct, fully assembled tail hook configuration.

A tail hook arresting setup must provide a complete load path from the aircraft through to the arresting gear, while controlling where and how the loads are absorbed and how the system returns to ready. Each component in the full configuration has a specific role that keeps the system safe and functional during a carrier landing.

The net acts as a protective and guiding element around the hook area, helping to manage the interface with the arresting gear and protect the surrounding structure during engagement. The stanchion provides the structural support and mounting point for the tail hook assembly, keeping everything aligned with the aircraft. The energy absorber is the key element that dissipates the kinetic energy of the landing, reducing peak forces on the aircraft and the hook. The pendant cable carries the load from the tail hook to the energy absorber, forming the direct load path. The interconnect ensures proper linkage and coordination between components so the system works as a single, synchronized unit. The pretension assembly sets the initial tension in the system, keeping components properly preloaded so the hook returns to the correct position and remains ready for the next use.

Leaving any one of these parts out would break the load path or compromise energy management and positioning, making the configuration incomplete and unsafe. That’s why this complete set—net, stanchion, energy absorber, pendant cable, interconnect, and pretension assembly—is the correct, fully assembled tail hook configuration.