How should hot brakes be approached and mitigated?

• A. Approach from the side; stand clear and wait for maintenance.
• B. Use direct high-pressure jet of water from long distance only.
• C. Do not approach; turn off engines and retreat.
• D. Approach from 45° front/rear, not the side; use continued taxiing, normal cooling, water mist/fog, or fans as appropriate.

Answer: (B)

Cooling hot brakes requires rapid, targeted heat removal while staying safe. Using a direct high‑pressure water jet aimed at the hottest brake components from a safe distance delivers concentrated cooling power quickly, helping to drop temperatures fast and reduce the risk of brake failure or ignition. The long distance keeps you out of the main heat plume and away from potential debris or radiant heat, while still delivering enough water to the critical areas.

Approaching from the side increases exposure to radiant heat, potential rotor debris, and the aircraft’s moving parts, making it more hazardous. Simply turning engines off and retreat doesn’t actively cool the brakes and leaves them hot, which can lead to further complications. An approach at 45 degrees with water mist, fog, or fans can help moderate heat, but it is generally slower and may not achieve the same rapid cooling as a direct high‑pressure jet from a safe distance.