Flight achieves 100 percent service status

  • Published
  • By Jennifer Vollmer
  • 99ABW/PA

For the first time in more than 20 years, the 57th Component Maintenance Squadron Propulsion Flight has attained 100 percent serviceable status of all assigned spare engines and is reporting no holes (aircraft without engines) in Nellis aircraft.

“It’s amazing and says a lot about the Propulsion Flight team members to achieve something of this magnitude — especially on a base of Nellis’ size,” said Roger Kato, 57th CMS Propulsions Flight assistant chief.

The 57th CMS Propulsion Flight is responsible for repairing and maintaining all aircraft engines at Nellis.

According to Mr. Kato, a goal was set three years ago to ensure all operational aircraft had serviceable engines at Nellis. “When (Chief Master Sgt. Charles Johnson, 57th CMS Propulsions Flight chief) and I came aboard the 57th CMS team, there were 14 holes in existing Nellis aircraft and no spares of any configuration,” he said.

Capt. James Ellison, 57 CMS Propulsions Flight commander, explained when thereare holes in aircraft, the Air Force losses flying hours, which decreases the mission capability.

“It’s of the utmost importance that aircraft are serviceable and able to fly, if we are to meet our goals and add to overall mission effectiveness,” said Captain Ellison. “Our troops and contractors have a direct impact on the flying status of all aircraft on Nellis.”

It took four months to plug all the holes, and another two and a half years to get all spares serviceable. Today the flight has all 150 engines serviceable, including 15 spares.

From manpower to supplies, there are many entities involved with the propulsion flight’s daily operations. Sergeant Johnson attributes the productive relationship between the Air Force, contractors and suppliers for achieving this goal.

Enlisted servicemembers and maintenance contractors make up the total shop force of approximately 150 engine specialists. Mr. Kato said that although production has increased, manhours have decreased.

“Three years ago, every propulsion team member was working 12-hour shifts during the duty day. They also alternated weekend duty,” said Mr. Kato.

Captain Ellison said better communication between the flight and the suppliers of needed materials has made the work more efficient, enabling troops and contractors to get more done in less time.

“We’ve never had a problem with manpower,” said Mr. Kato. “We’ve always had a hardworking, dedicated team. It’s great to see these guys and gals achieve what they set out to do. Like always, they go above and beyond.”

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