The ditch headings product is available as an analysis and as a forecast at 12-hour increments to 72 hours. See figure 10-3. In case of distress, the pilot must make a decision on which direction to land an aircraft to minimize impact damage to the aircraft and loss of life. Except in calm seas, ditching an aircraft is more complicated than landing into the wind.
Large waves can severely damage aircraft upon impact.
If only one swell is present, landing should take place parallel to the swell, preferably on the top or backside of the swell. . If two or more swell systems are present, and the primary system is significantly higher, landing should take place parallel to the primary swell. If the swell systems are comparable in height, landing should take place at a 45-degree angle to both swell systems on the downside of the swell. . If the secondary swell system is in the same direction as the wind, landing should take place parallel to the primary swell with the wind and secondary-system at an angle. The choice of whether to land with the angle of the wind upwind or downwind to the plane depends on the wind speed and height of the secondary swell system. .