Current Issue Articles
Common Challenges and Means to Mitigate Them
Simulation & Training / By LTC Eric Megerdoomian and numerous DES SME: The Directorate of Evaluation and Standardization (DES) is afforded a unique perspective of our branch. Through assistance and assessments of our aviation units, we are exposed to units who struggle with similar challenges and are witness to creative means to overcome them. RCMLeaders of Rated Crew Members (RCMs) allow improper procedures to manifest due to mission requirements. This creates a culture that accepts deviations from the standard dictated by our regulations. It is common to find organizations disregarding AR 95-1, TC 3-04.11 and their own unit Standard Operating...
Learn MorePlantar Fasciitis
Ask the Flight Surgeon / By CPT Frank Stafford, D.O: Q: The bottom of my feet, especially my heels, have really been hurting. The pain is the worst when I first get up in the morning. It can get so bad that it makes it difficult to walk or stand for a long time let alone go for a run. I read on the internet that this could be plantar fasciitis. What is that? FS: Plantar fasciitis is when the fascia, a thick, wide band of tissue that runs from the base of your toes to your heel, becomes inflamed...
Learn MoreSynthetic Aviation Maintenance Training Environment
Reserve / By COL Andrew D. Cecil: Army Aviation has the opportunity to advance Aviation maintenance training into the synthetic training environment. Aviation equipment and systems have advanced from the analog to the digital over the past two decades (UH-60A/L to UH-60M; CH-47D to CH-47F; AH-64A to AH-64D/E). The training for helicopter maintenance personnel has not changed commensurate to this change in complexity. We can and should now correct that deficiency. Aviation maintenance training in Army units is essentially an apprenticeship program requiring close supervision, limited learner autonomy and restricted initiative. These controls represent necessary restrictions on the apprentice due...
Learn MoreThe Next Step in Simulation
CWOB / By CW5 Jonathon P. Koziol: First, I am honored to be selected as the next Command Chief Warrant Officer of the Branch. I understand the importance of the position and my responsibilities to represent our aviation warrant officers, but more importantly, the aviation branch. Army Aviators assigned to B/1-214th Aviation conduct annual CH-47 Flight Simulator training at the flight simulator in Illesheim, Germany./ U.S. ARMY PHOTO BY GEORGIOS MOUMOULIDIS I will continue to work hard on initiatives that will better manage and benefit our aviation warrant officers. I will embrace the opportunity I have been given and work...
Learn MoreSimulations to Enhance Aviation Training Capabilities
Branch Chief Update / By By MG David J. Francis: It is an honor for Jodie and me to sign on as your 17th Chief of the Aviation Branch. Our sincere gratitude to MG Bill and Michelle Gayler for their steadfast leadership of the branch over the last three years. MG Gayler set us on a path to maintain Aviation as an asymmetric advantage for our nation, and to develop and field leap-ahead capability in the future. COL John Ferrell (center) briefs (left to right) Mr. Tim Bishop, Deputy PEO STRI; MG Maria Gervais, STE CFT Director; and MG William...
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