Section 4
Normal Procedures
Columbia 400 (LC41-550FG)
RC050002
Initial Issue of Manual: November 10, 2004
3-36
Latest Revision Level/Date: -/11-10-2004
CRASH AX
A crash ax is located under the pilot’s seat for use in the event the cabin door and the emergency
door releases cannot be used. The blade of the ax points down and is inserted in an aluminum
sheath, and the unit is secured with a Velcro strip. To use the ax, open the Velcro fastener and
remove the ax from its sheath.
It generally works best to strike the corner edge of the window near the doorframe. Several smart
blows to the window area around the perimeter of the doorframe will remove enough pieces so
that the middle portion of the window can be removed with a few heavy blows. Once the major
portion of the window is removed and if time and circumstances permit, use the ax blade to
smooth down the jagged edges around the doorframe. This will minimize injury when egressing
the airplane through the window.
WARNING
The crash ax/hatchet is a required item for the safe operation of the airplane.
It must be installed and secured in its sheath during all flight operations. Do
not use the crash ax for any other purposes, such as chopping wood, since it
can diminish the effectiveness of the tool.