The Proficiency Puzzle: Maintaining Airmanship In America's Mobility Force Since 9-11
Abstract
This study analyzes the future of pilot training for mobility air forces in a fiscally constrained environment with de-escalating missions congruent with the drawdown in central Asia. The author begins by providing a background on the approximately two years of flight training a pilot endures to become a C-17 pilot and the requirement to continue developing a new pilot. Then the author provides a structure, based on Dr. Tony Kern s airmanship model, to start piecing together the proficiency puzzle of the future. This leads the author to the fiscal environment of 2013 and the effect on flying hours in the C-17 community. Additionally the author discusses the technology mediums the C- 17 community can leverage more efficiently in the future. These technology mediums provide options for retaining and improving proficiency, but are not a direct replacement for hands-on flying in the aircraft. The analysis provides recommendations for the future and areas for further research to gain training efficiency and effectiveness in the C-17. These recommendations focus on leadership, culture, and mission requirements. The Air Force s investment in a new pilot requires further development, and Air Mobility Command must lead and train these pilots in the future.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 01, 2013
- Accession Number
- ADA617000
Entities
People
- Matthew S. Husemann
Organizations
- Air University