Who is responsible for determining the proper air speed during external load operations?

The responsibility for determining the proper air speed during external load operations primarily falls on the aviation unit commander or pilot. This is due to their critical role in ensuring mission safety and the effective execution of the flight. The pilot is trained to understand the various factors that influence airspeed, including the type of aircraft, weight of the external load, environmental conditions, and the specific flight profile being utilized.

The aviation unit commander is also involved in the planning and operational aspects of the mission, ensuring that all safety protocols and technical specifications are adhered to. They have the authority to make decisions that affect the overall mission, which includes setting parameters such as air speed to optimize performance and safety. By focusing on these critical factors, the pilot can ensure the stability and control of the aircraft while managing the load, which is essential in successful external load operations.