A1101 FLIGHT MISSION 1.0 hour minimum

Mission Training

vAMC MAJCOM Training | Platform-specific mission execution with instructor

OBJECTIVE

Execute platform-specific mission training with an instructor pilot, demonstrating proficiency in aircraft handling, local area operations, and the primary mission set for your assigned platform: simulated airdrop (C-17/C-130) or air refueling (KC-135/KC-46) per vAFMAN 11-206 §1.2.4 standards.

MISSION PROFILES BY PLATFORM

AIRLIFT C-17 / C-130

Simulated Airdrop

  • • Low-level navigation (300-500 ft AGL)
  • • SLOW-POP-IP-DROP-ESCAPE profile
  • • Drop zone approach and CARP
  • • Timing calls and crew coordination
  • • TOT accuracy (±30 seconds)
  • • Escape maneuver and RTB

Reference: M1002 Ground Lesson

TANKER KC-135 / KC-46

Air Refueling Operations

  • • AR track entry and holding
  • • RV Delta or RV Golf rendezvous (as briefed)
  • • MARSA declaration and responsibilities
  • • Receiver management and communications
  • • Boom/drogue operations (simulated)
  • • Breakaway procedures

Reference: M1003 Ground Lesson

FLIGHT PROFILE

Pre-Flight

  • • Brief: Review mission objectives, weather, NOTAMs, and platform-specific procedures with instructor
  • • Knowledge verification: Instructor verifies A1001/A1002 completion through oral questions
  • • Flight planning: Complete fuel calculations, weight & balance, and mission timing
  • • Cockpit setup: Demonstrate aircraft familiarization by completing cockpit flow

Engine Start & Taxi

  • • Start sequence: Demonstrate manual engine start procedure (instructor observes/assists)
  • • Taxi: Execute taxi to runway using proper heavy aircraft procedures
  • • Before takeoff: Complete all checklists; verify mission systems

Departure & Transit

  • • Takeoff: Normal takeoff; demonstrate proper technique for aircraft type
  • • Departure: Follow assigned SID or radar vectors
  • • Transit: Proceed to working area (MOA, DZ, or AR track)
  • • Ops check: Complete ops check; verify mission systems

Mission Execution

Execute platform-specific mission as briefed:

Airlift (C-17/C-130)

  • 1. Descend to low-level altitude
  • 2. Navigate to slowdown point
  • 3. Execute SLOW-POP-IP-DROP-ESCAPE
  • 4. Practice 1-2 additional runs as time permits

Tanker (KC-135/KC-46)

  • 1. Enter AR track at assigned altitude
  • 2. Establish on refueling track
  • 3. Execute RV procedure (Delta or Golf)
  • 4. Manage simulated receiver(s)

Recovery

  • • RTB: Return to base via assigned routing or radar vectors
  • • Approach: Execute instrument approach or visual pattern as assigned
  • • Landing: Demonstrate proper landing technique for aircraft type and conditions
  • • Taxi & shutdown: Complete taxi-in and shutdown checklists

Debrief

  • • Mission review: Discuss mission execution, timing, and procedures
  • • Technique corrections: Address any areas needing improvement
  • • Grade: Instructor provides overall assessment and recommendations

COMPLETION STANDARDS

±100 ft

Altitude

±10°

Heading

±10 kts

Airspeed

±30 sec

TOT (Airdrop)

To complete vAMC training, you must demonstrate:

  • • Cockpit familiarization meeting FPN-level standards
  • • Safe and effective engine start and ground operations
  • • Knowledge of local area operations and procedures
  • • Successful execution of platform-specific mission (airdrop or AR)
  • • Proper CRM and crew coordination throughout
  • • Safe recovery and landing

Completion: Instructor sign-off for vAMC platform qualification

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