Instructions for crash landing procedures for the Douglas A-26 Invader from the Pilot Training Manual for the A-26 Invader, Headquarters, AAF, Office of Flying Safety.
CRASH LANDING
Pilot
1. Call crew. “Prepare for crash landing.” (Have crew acknowledge.)
2. Switch on emergency IFF radio transmitter.
3. Release parachute by unbuckling.
4. Tighten safety belt and lock shoulder harness.
5. Salvo bombs. Close bomb bay doors.
6. Make a normal approach. Use up to 3/4 flaps. Always make a wheels-up landing.
7. Slide seat back but still keep rudder control. (Place cushion between chest and control column.)
8. Call rear gunner and warn of “final impact.”
9. Have bombardier pull emergency lever to release cockpit hatch when airplane is just off the ground.
10. Mixture controls to IDLE CUT-OFF.
11. Turn battery and master ignition switches to OFF.
12. Tank selector valves to OFF.
13. Exit through upper hatch opening.
Rear Gunner
1. Lock upper turret guns in aft position at a 45° angle.
2. Lock sighting station in aft position.
3. Release upper escape hatch by pulling emergency release handle.
4. Unbuckle parachute.
5. Sit on the floor facing aft in the right forward corner of the compartment with back firmly against sloping bulkhead.
6. Brace self with hands and feet.
7. Keep earphones on for pilot warning of final impact.
8. Exit through upper hatch opening.
Bombardier
1. Take up position on jump seat beside pilot.2. Unbuckle parachute.
3. Tighten safety belt.
4. Pull upper emergency escape hatch release (on signal from pilot).
5. Lean well forward with hands behind head. Use cushion to protect head and face.
6. Exit through upper hatch opening.
