MAF airplanes fly millions of miles each year, carry thousands of passengers and millions of pounds of cargo in rugged, isolated places that no one else can reach. Primitive, rough airstrips demand that each aircraft be maintained in top condition and equipped for utmost safety and efficiency.
Many of the required safety and efficiency features are not included as standard equipment on airplanes purchased by MAF. Before an MAF plane is dedicated for service in the field, MAF mechanics spend up to four months equipping it with the necessary modifications.
These MAF modifications increase the safety and effectiveness of each aircraft on the field:
ELT remote switch
This switch allows the pilot to check that the Emergency Locator Transmitter is working prior to making a flight.
S-Frame seats
This JAARS-designed seat frame absorbs impact force more efficiently than a stock seat frame, thus decreasing the chance of injury during emergency landings .
Seat belts and shoulder harnesses
Strong belts and full shoulder harnesses are used to provide maximum security for passengers.
Windshield
V-brace & Floatplane Reinforcements
Adds rigidity to the aircraft airframe and reduces maintenance costs. This is important when operating on rough primitive airstrips, as MAF routinely does.
Fire extinguisher
All MAF aircraft carry Halon fire extinguishers for an added measure of safety.
MAF takeoff, landing, and control yoke checklists
Within easy reach, the checklist is a convenient way for the pilot to be sure that each item is accounted for, before every takeoff and landing.
MAF cargo D-ring set
D-rings are attached in the cabin area and used to tie down cargo. This measure keeps baggage and cargo securely in place in turbulence and during emergency landings.
Starter warning light
This light is used to alert the pilot in case the starter fails to disengage after starting the engine.
Cessna
fuselage strut steps for refueling
These steps are mounted on the plane to make refueling possible on the high wing without the need for a ladder.
"No Smoking" signs
Onboard for obvious safety reasons, they are printed in several
languages depending on which country the aircraft is operated.
Cargo pod
A convenient cargo and baggage storage area attached to the underside of the plane.
Stainless steel door sill reinforcements
These very strong metal pieces protect the sill from damage that can be caused by repeated loading of heavy cargo such as fuel drums.
Plywood floor
Wood is used instead of the usual carpet for durability, protection of the aluminum structure, and ease of maintenance.
STOL kit
STOL is short for "Short TakeOff and Landing." This modification allows safe flight at slower than normal airspeeds which is a real plus while operating on short slippery airstrips.
Slip marks on main gear tires
The slip marks give the pilot a visual indication during preflight inspection if a tire has slipped on a wheel. This can happen with heavy braking on rough airstrips.
White paint with red and blue trim
In the event of an accident, this color combination provides a good color contrast with jungle growth. It makes the plane easier to spot from the air and is the standard for painting all MAF aircraft.
Large Tires
These tires aid in operating on rough or soft airstrips by providing more flotation.
Gravel Guards
Rubber flaps that attach to the main wheels, they help prevent mud and rocks from being thrown rearwards into the tail control surfaces.
6-Point EGT/CHT gauge
Two probes are inserted into each of the engine's 6 cylinders. The pilot can then monitor the Exhaust Gas Temperature and Cylinder Heat Temperature of each cylinder.
Stabilizer Boots
These rubber strips are attached to the leading edge of the aluminum horizontal stabilizer to protect from rock damage.
Survival kit
In the event of an accident, these kits contain first aid materials and items to care for immediate needs until help arrives.
HF (High Frequency) Radio
For long-distance radio transmission.
Navigator tunnel access
Facilitates maintenance of the nose gear.
Custom propeller paint
One blade painted white for increased visibility helps prevent people from walking into the propeller.
Convex mirror on right wing
To clear propeller area at startup, and monitor the right side of the aircraft for oil and exhaust.
Strikefinder or Stormscope
Used for weather avoidance.
Tail skids
To reinforce and protect the tail during STOL operations.
Recognition light
Improves visibility during flight in high-traffic areas and during takeoff and landing on jungle airstrips.
Flint tanks
For longer flight range and increased weight capacity (by 160lbs.).
GPS-based flight information recorder
In experimental / evaluation stage.