amount and type of refueling support needed. He or a pathfinder team must choose a site that has enough
open ground for the aircraft to land and lift off safely. The site must be flat or have only a slight grade. When
planning the layout of a FARE system, five factors must be considered.
Spacing Between Aircraft: There must be at least 100 feet of space between these aircraft (center rotor
to center rotor).
Wind Direction: Ensure that personnel lay out the FARE system so that the helicopter can land, refuel,
and take off into direct head wind or a left or right quartering head wind.
Vapor Collection: By laying out the system at right angles to the wind for helicopter landing and takeoff,
the wind will carry the fuel vapors away from the site.
Drainage: Ensure that personnel do
not put the equipment in a
place where a
spill will drain into a
stream
or river. Choose a part of the site that is firm enough to support the weight of the aircraft and the fuel
drums.
Camouflage: Camouflage is the only protection at a FARE point in a combat zone. Site features are
depended upon because airlifting in camouflage materials is not practical.
Site Preparation. All sticks, stones, and debris should be cleared from the area. To prevent fires, ensure
that personnel clear dry grass, leaves, and brush away from the pumping assembly. In some cases, engineer
personnel prepare the site.
Layout. Once all equipment is on-site, ensure that personnel layout the FARE system in the way that is best
for the specific situation. Tailor the layout to avoid obstacles, take advantage of terrain features, achieve
maximum dispersion, and operate with a restricted amount of space. The only mandatory feature of the
FARE system is the spacing between the aircraft (Figure 7-1).
Position pump and filter/separator.
Ground pump and filter/separator.
Assemble discharge hose.
Assemble discharge hose.
Assemble dispensing points.
Connect to two 500-gallon collapsible drums.
Position fire extinguishers.
12-65
QM 5099