NOVEMBER 14, 2024 – Members of the 145th Airlift Wing conducted mission termination inspections on C-17 Globemaster IIIs at the North Carolina Air National Guard, Charlotte-Douglas International Airport, Nov. 1-4.
The combat readiness inspection tested the capabilities of NCANG members in a simulated large-scale combat operation scenario, focusing on essential mission elements such as communications in contested environments, fuel sustainment in engagement zones and medical logistical support.
Even within a simulated setting, the role of aircrew flight equipment remains vital to mission success and the safety of all aboard.
“An MTI is when an aircraft returns from a mission, and we ensure all the life support and survival equipment is still serviceable and ready to go on the next mission,” said Tech. Sgt. Dustin Garland, 145th Operations Support Squadron AFE technician.
For Garland and his team, MTIs are not just procedural; they’re a critical step in safeguarding lives and preparing the aircraft for any unexpected challenges.
“The MTI is a very important step because if something has been used or is missing, like an emergency passenger oxygen system, a passenger would not have oxygen capability if the plane were to lose pressure,” Garland explained.
Regularly checking and maintaining this equipment ensures the readiness and reliability to meet mission demands even under simulated conditions.
MTIs can be conducted multiple times a day, depending on the operational tempo, and each inspection requires precision and diligence.
“I am proud of everyone in our shop,” says Master Sgt. Scott T. Perry, 145th Operations Support Squadron AFE flight chief. “Each person strives to ensure the best equipment is ready and available should it ever be needed. We work to provide the best equipment we can, while hoping no one ever needs this equipment.”
For many aircrew flight equipment technicians like Garland, the commitment to safety extends well beyond protocol.
“I take a lot of pride in my job,” says Garland, “we’re acting to save lives, so I take pride in the fact that my Air Force specialty code allows me to do so.”
By Staff Sgt. Reanna Hartgrove
145th Airlift Wing
North Carolina Air National Guard