Patent ID: 8162264

Claim:
A method of automatically jettisoning an external load ( 4 ) suspended reversibly from a release-hook ( 12 ) of an aircraft fuselage ( 2 ) by means of a sling ( 13 ) liable to extend at an angle (θ) of varying magnitude relative to a vertical axis in elevation (AX) of the aircraft ( 1 ) parallel to the yaw axis (Z) of the aircraft ( 1 ) and passing via a connection point ( 100 ) connecting support means ( 11 ) for the release-hook ( 12 ) to the fuselage ( 2 ) of the aircraft ( 1 ), the method comprising: measuring said angle (θ); and activating automatic jettisoning when firstly said angle (θ) exceeds an upper bound (BSUP), and secondly said sling ( 13 ) is directed towards the rear ( 4 ′) of the aircraft thereby making it possible, optionally, to proceed with jettisoning said external load ( 4 ).