Spotlight Award: C-21 Flight Crew Published Feb. 5, 2014 By AMC Spring 2014 -- During routine training at Peterson AFB, a C-21 piloted by Lt Col Sean McFarland and Lt Christopher Brimer became extremely difficult to control shortly before a flight control warning light illuminated. As the crew performed an unplanned go-around, secondary flight controls failed. Maintaining control throughout the unplanned recovery action, Lt Brimer was able to avoid a wingtip strike and helped safely establish the aircraft in holding. Utilizing exceptional CRM, the crew reviewed and accomplished all emergency checklists before approach for landing. Anticipating hydraulic system failure, the crew planned for another go-around if needed, and during normal flap extension--when the hydraulic system pressure fell to zero--they opted for an early go-around. Again en route to holding, the crew maintained situational awareness and prioritized flying the aircraft to avoid multiple conflicting aircraft. Back in holding, five additional emergency checklists were completed. Because of proper checklist usage and advanced systems knowledge, the crew extended landing gear with use of the emergency air bottle system and selected 20 degrees of flaps, which may have prevented a subsequent go-around in the event of engine failure. With the concern of emergency braking system failure, the crew requested an opposite direction approach to the runway so that the significant uphill slope would aid in slowing the aircraft upon landing. Once again, outstanding CRM ensured the crew was prepared to apply emergency braking. The aircraft commander (AC) performed the landing, and the co-pilot took control of the engines and thrust reversers. The AC then took control of the emergency braking handle, but normal brakes worked and emergency brakes were not required. Exceptional airmanship, exemplary CRM, proper task prioritization, and systems knowledge enabled the crew to avoid mishap, safeguard two lives, and safely recover a $3.1 million aircraft.