Falcon BMS Emergency Procedures: A Comprehensive Guide for Virtual Aviators

Falcon BMS (Benchmark Sims) is widely regarded as one of the most realistic F-16 combat flight simulators available. Its dynamic campaign, accurate flight model, and detailed systems simulation demand that pilots master not only normal operations but also emergency procedures. In the real world, emergency procedures are drilled until they become second nature; in Falcon BMS, knowing these steps can mean the difference between a safe recovery and a catastrophic crash. This guide provides a thorough, step-by-step walkthrough of the most common in-flight emergencies, helping you respond with confidence and precision.

Whether you are a new pilot transitioning from other sims or a seasoned virtual aviator looking to refine your skills, understanding these procedures will enhance your situational awareness, realism, and overall enjoyment. We will cover engine failures, hydraulic system issues, onboard fires, electrical malfunctions, and communication loss, along with post-emergency actions and additional resources.

Why Emergency Procedures Matter in Falcon BMS

Falcon BMS is not a casual arcade sim. The flight dynamics and systems logic are modeled after the real F-16 Fighting Falcon. Emergencies in BMS can occur randomly due to battle damage, system wear, or improper operation. Learning the correct response sequences trains your muscle memory and decision-making under pressure – skills that carry over to real-world flying, should that be a goal.

Moreover, multiplayer squadrons often require pilots to demonstrate proficiency in emergency procedures. Being able to handle a flameout or a hydraulic failure without panic makes you a more reliable wingman. It also adds a layer of immersion that makes each mission unpredictable and engaging.

Key Principles for Handling Emergencies

  1. Aviate, Navigate, Communicate – Always maintain control of the aircraft first. Only then assess the situation and communicate.
  2. Use Checklists – Falcon BMS includes detailed cockpit checklists and emergency procedures. Know where they are or have a reference handy.
  3. Practice in a Controlled Environment – Use the training mode to trigger failures and work through them without combat pressure.
  4. Document Your Lessons – After each emergency scenario, note what worked and what did not. Refine your process.

Common Emergency Scenarios and Their Causes

While Falcon BMS can simulate a wide array of failures, the following five are among the most frequent and impactful. Understanding their typical causes helps you anticipate and prevent them.

  • Engine Failure – Caused by fuel starvation, battle damage, compressor stalls, or improper throttle handling.
  • Hydraulic System Failure – Often results from battle damage or loss of hydraulic fluid, leading to loss of flight control assistance.
  • Onboard Fire – Can originate in the engine, APU, or electrical components; often triggered by combat damage or electrical faults.
  • Electrical System Failure – May stem from generator failure, battery depletion, or wiring damage; affects instruments, radios, and weapon systems.
  • Loss of Communication – Radio equipment damage or power loss; requires use of visual signals or relay.

Step-by-Step Emergency Procedures

The following sections detail the correct sequence of actions for each emergency. Procedures are based on the Falcon BMS Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and real-world F-16 checklists. For detailed keybindings and cockpit interactions, refer to the Benchmark Sims Community Forum or the official manual.

Engine Failure

An engine failure can be one of the most critical emergencies. The F-16 has a single engine, so immediate and correct action is vital.

Immediate Actions

  1. Maintain Aircraft Control – Lower the nose to maintain airspeed above 200 knots. The F-16 has limited glide performance without engine power.
  2. Check Engine Instruments – Verify a drop in RPM, low exhaust gas temperature (EGT), and low fuel flow. Confirm the failure is not a false indication.
  3. Attempt an Airstart – Place the throttle to OFF, then to IDLE. Press the engine start button. Monitor for relight. If unsuccessful, repeat after 30 seconds.
  4. Perform Emergency Shutdown – If fire or severe damage is suspected, shut down the engine using the throttle to OFF and use the fire handle if appropriate.
  5. Declare Emergency – Use radio (default key: Alt-T) to transmit “Mayday” with your call sign, position, and intentions.

Planning for Landing

If the engine cannot be restarted, you have limited time. Use the emergency landing gear extension (manual release) and prepare for a flameout landing. Aim for a long straight-in approach with minimal turns. The best glide speed is around 220 knots clean. Consider using the drag chute upon touchdown. For more details, visit the Falcon BMS Official Site which hosts training resources.

Hydraulic System Failure

The F-16 uses redundant hydraulic systems (A and B). A single system failure leaves you with reduced control; a dual failure is extremely serious.

Single Hydraulic System Failure

  1. Identify the Failed System – Check the HYD pressure gauges on the left panel. An illuminated HYD caution light also indicates failure.
  2. Switch to Backup Mode – Engage the Flight Control System (FCS) backup switch to use the remaining system more effectively. This may be toggled via the UHF panel.
  3. Adjust Flying Technique – Expect heavier control forces. Fly smoothly and avoid abrupt maneuvers that could overstress the remaining system.
  4. Land as Soon as Practical – Limit the flight duration. Approach at a slightly higher speed to maintain positive control. Extend gear manually if necessary.

Dual Hydraulic System Failure

If both hydraulic systems fail, the F-16’s flight controls become extremely heavy and ultimately ineffective. Immediate action is required:

  1. Engage Emergency Hydraulic Pump – Use the Emergency Hydraulic System (EHS) switch to power a small backup pump that provides limited control.
  2. Control with Trim and Throttle – Use rudder trim and differential throttle if possible. The aircraft will be difficult to handle.
  3. Eject – If control cannot be maintained and the aircraft is unrecoverable, do not delay ejection. Pull the ejection handle (default: Ctrl-E).

Onboard Fire

Fire is an immediate life-threatening emergency. The F-16 has a fire detection and suppression system for the engine and APU.

Engine Fire

  1. Throttle to OFF – Immediately cut fuel to the engine.
  2. Pull the Fire Handle – The engine fire handle is located on the left console. Pulling it shuts off fuel, hydraulics, and electrical power to the engine, and activates the fire extinguisher.
  3. Monitor Fire Warning Light – The FIRE light should extinguish. If it remains on, a second extinguishing agent shot may be available after 30 seconds.
  4. Declare Emergency – Inform ATC or your flight lead. Prepare for emergency landing or eject if the fire spreads.

APU Fire

  1. Shut Down APU – Turn the APU switch to OFF.
  2. Pull the APU Fire Handle – Located near the engine fire handle. It discharges the APU extinguisher.
  3. Follow Post-Fire Procedures – If the fire is out, you may need to land without the APU. If the fire continues, consider emergency landing or ejection.

Cockpit Fire (Electrical)

Electrical fires are rare but can occur. Symptoms include smoke or burning smell in the cockpit, and flickering instruments.

  1. Turn Off Non-Essential Electrical Equipment – Use the ELEC panel to deactivate systems like radios, radar, and lights.
  2. Shut Down the Generator – Switch the generator to OFF to isolate the main electrical bus.
  3. Activate Emergency Power – The battery and emergency bus may still supply critical instruments. Use the EMERG PWR switch if available.
  4. Land Immediately – Electrical failures often cascade. Get on the ground as soon as possible.

Loss of Communication

Communication failure (COMM OUT) can occur due to radio damage or power loss. It does not directly threaten flight safety but complicates coordination.

Procedures for Communication Loss

  1. Verify Radio Settings – Check the UHF/VHF frequency and volume. Try switching to a different preset channel.
  2. Use Backup Radio – The F-16 has two independent radios. Switch to the other (typically UHF to VHF or vice versa).
  3. If Still Unable to Transmit – Squawk 7600 on your IFF transponder to indicate communication failure.
  4. Follow Lost Comm Procedures – If in formation, perform the standard “lost wingman” procedure: check your six, use visual signals (rock wings, flash lights), and rejoin the flight lead. If solo, proceed to your alternate airfield or divert using pre-briefed frequencies.
  5. Plan for Landing Without Clearance – At a controlled airfield, observe the traffic pattern and land only when you receive a light gun signal (steady green = cleared to land, flashing red = unsafe). Know the light gun signals beforehand.

Post-Emergency Actions and Debrief

Once you have managed the immediate threat and safely landed (or ejected), your work is not finished. Proper post-emergency actions solidify your learning and prepare you for future flights.

After Landing

  1. Secure the Aircraft – Apply parking brake, shut down engine, and set all switches to OFF. If you have damage, note it for the debrief.
  2. Communicate with Ground Crew – In multiplayer, inform your squadron of the failure and any pending maintenance issues.
  3. Debrief Yourself – Review the flight replay in BMS and analyze your decision-making. What could you have done faster or differently?

Continuous Improvement

  • Use the TacEngage Database – Falcon BMS can log system failures. Review the log to see if there were warning signs you missed.
  • Join Training Sessions – Many virtual squadrons host weekly training flights focused on emergencies. Participating accelerates your learning.
  • Reference External Resources – The F-16.net website offers real-world pilot quotes and emergency stories that add context. The DCS World F-16 module manual (though a different sim) also contains useful analogies for system behavior.

Additional Training Tips and Resources

Creating Your Own Emergency Drills

Falcon BMS allows you to manually inject failures through the AI or via the “Faults” menu under the “Flight” tab. Practice each failure type at least five times until the steps are automatic. Start at altitude with plenty of time, then gradually introduce emergencies at low level or during combat.

Keybinds and Shortcuts

Familiarize yourself with the default keybindings for emergency actions:

  • Ctrl+E – Eject
  • Alt+T – Open radio menu
  • Shift+F1 – Emergency gear release
  • Ctrl+Shift+F1 – Emergency hydraulic pump
  • Fire handles are controlled by clicking in the cockpit (use mouse look).

Customize your HOTAS setup to place critical emergency functions on easily accessible buttons. For example, map the “Emergency Gear Release” and “Eject” to hat switches or pinky buttons.

For deeper dives into the F-16 systems, consider these resources:

Conclusion

Mastering emergency procedures in Falcon BMS is not optional for those who want a realistic and rewarding simulation experience. By understanding the scenarios, practicing step-by-step responses, and debriefing each incident, you transform from a mere button-pusher into a true virtual aviator. The cockpit becomes your domain, and emergencies become challenges to overcome rather than reasons to rage-quit.

Remember that the skills you develop here – decision-making under stress, system knowledge, and procedural discipline – are transferable to other sims and even to real aviation if you pursue a license. Fly safe, keep your checklist handy, and never stop learning.