What is the PI for a CDS drop from a C-17 during the night?

The correct answer indicates that the proper Point of Impact (PI) for a Container Delivery System (CDS) drop from a C-17 at night is 275 yards from the lead edge. This distance is crucial because it accounts for various factors such as the aircraft's speed, altitude, and the specific characteristics of the CDS drop during nighttime operations.

At night, visibility and the ability to make precise adjustments during the drop are reduced, necessitating a longer PI to ensure that the cargo lands in the designated drop zone safely and accurately. The increased distance also helps compensate for potential drift caused by wind at higher altitudes, which is especially challenging to gauge in low-light conditions.

Safety and operational effectiveness are paramount during nighttime drops, which influences the selection of this more conservative choice of 275 yards. This standard helps minimize the risk of cargo landing too close to the intended impact point, ensuring that personnel on the ground remain safe while achieving drop accuracy.