Estimated reading time 4 minutes, 6 seconds.
A Royal Canadian Air Force Aviation Systems Technician performs a pre-flight check on a CF-188 Hornet aircraft during Operation IMPACT in Kuwait on Jan. 2, 2016. DND Photo
The sun is high in the sky over Kuwait and the aircraft shelters prove their utility as a technician makes his way down the flight line towards a Canadian fighter jet parked in the shade.
Aviation Systems Technicians deployed with Air Task Force-Iraq (ATF-I) are responsible for regular service on the CF-188 Hornets, and specialize in maintaining the airframe, weapon systems, or engines.
“I’m performing a B-Check, which is the short version for Before-Flight Check. Essentially, I prepare this Hornet for its mission, making sure that it is in perfect condition before the starting process,” explains the technician as he takes a quick look inside the cockpit.
“Among other verifications, I check the fuel, liquid oxygen, and oil levels, landing gear, flight controls, and the engines. The pilot will also go through additional checks before a flight.”
The technician crawls under the aircraft to verify the air pressure in each tire. Aviation Systems Technicians have an active role in Operation IMPACT. They enable flying operations for Canada’s military contribution to the multinational coalition to halt and degrade the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL).
“I’m in charge of fixing the engines and all the associated systems, and I love it! Some of my work related challenges in Kuwait include sandstorms and extreme heat,” explains the technician as he climbs on the airframe and makes his way towards the rear of the jet to inspect the vertical stabilizers.
“In short, I must protect the engines from the sand while working in extreme temperatures. At the end of the day, we do what we can to support the operation.”
Aviation Systems Technicians deployed with Air Task Force-Iraq (ATF-I) are responsible for regular service on the CF-188 Hornets, and specialize in maintaining the airframe, weapon systems, or engines. DND Photo
Technicians perform a very specific and synchronized routine for departures and arrivals. Among other tasks, they are responsible for starting, marshalling, and refueling the aircraft.
“We are taking good care of our aircraft but most importantly, we watch out for our peers. As an example, we are surrounded by ammunition every day, which requires extra precautions and safety measures, especially when the jets are armed,” he explains. “As members of the Fighter Detachment, we follow thorough procedures when we conduct our inspections and maintenance. This common commitment to detail makes us a more cohesive team.”
The technician then points towards a few coalition aircraft parked further down the flight line; he explains that the coalition partnership extends to the technicians on the ground.
“I sometimes have the chance to interact with other coalition aircraft technicians,” he says as he finishes his checks by taking a close look inside both engines. “We do what we can to assist our counterparts when possible. We have a lot in common and a natural respect establishes itself among all of us.”
