How many release methods are there and what are they?

• A. Three release methods: Gravity, Extraction, and Door load.
• B. Two release methods: Gravity and Door load.
• C. Three release methods: Gravity, Extraction, and Onload.
• D. One release method: Gravity.

Answer: (A)

Release methods describe how a payload leaves its carrier and begins its descent. There are three clear methods: gravity release, where the payload simply drops once released and relies on gravity to pull it away; extraction release, where a mechanism actively pulls or withdraws the payload from the carrier to ensure immediate clearance; and door load, where the payload exits through an opening such as a cargo door or ramp, usually requiring the door to open and the payload to slide or fall out.

So the three methods are gravity, extraction, and door load. Onload isn’t a standard release method in this context, and a two-method or one-method description would omit a method actually used.