At what airspeed should T-6 ejection procedures be initiated?

Initiating ejection procedures at 125 KIAS (Knots Indicated Airspeed) is critical for ensuring the safety and effectiveness of the ejection system in the T-6 aircraft. This airspeed is specified because it allows the pilot to maintain control of the aircraft while the ejection sequence is initiated. The 125 KIAS mark strikes a balance between having enough speed to facilitate a successful ejection and having a low enough speed to avoid undue risk or mechanical complications associated with higher airspeeds.

Ejecting at or around this speed ensures that the ejection seat can function as designed, with the rocket motor providing sufficient thrust to clear the aircraft while accounting for the aircraft's dynamics at that speed. This helps in maximizing crew safety by allowing the pilot to safely separate from the aircraft during an emergency.

Choosing airspeeds that are significantly higher or lower can lead to complications, such as reduced control authority or increased risk of injury from the ejection sequence itself. Thus, the 125 KIAS threshold is a well-established guideline that optimizes the chances for a successful ejection in a critical situation.