Day to day with aircrew flight equipment

Photos by Airman 1st Class Lane T. Plummer
An Airman from the 86th Operations Support Squadron aircrew flight equipment unit observes as his superintendent goes over training on chemical gear Jan. 19 on Ramstein. Because of the large impact their job has on flights around the world, AFE Airmen ensure they keep up-to-date on their responsibilities through training courses.
Airman 1st Class Hayden Pickett, 86th Operations Support Squadron aircrew flight equipment technician, retrieves items to repair a flight helmet Jan. 19 on Ramstein.
Airman 1st Class Hayden Pickett, 86th Operations Support Squadron aircrew flight equipment technician, applies adhesive to a flight helmet Jan. 19 on Ramstein.
Senior Airman Gregory Solano II, 86th Operations Support Group aircrew flight equipment technician, works inside what his unit calls “the cage,” a room where stock is kept on high-rising shelves, Jan. 19 on Ramstein. The AFE flight mission is to ensure the safety of aircrew by properly equipping them for everyday and emergency missions. Most equipment is kept ready for use at any time in this room.
Airman 1st Class Hayden Pickett, 86th Operations Support Squadron aircrew flight equipment technician, repairs a flight helmet Jan. 19 on Ramstein. AFE Airmen also test, inspect and maintain radios, parachutes, life preservers, survival kits, flight helmets, oxygen masks and chemical gear for everyday and emergency situations.
Airmen from the 86th Operations Support Squadron aircrew flight equipment unit take part in training on chemical gear Jan. 19 on Ramstein. Attention to detail is key for AFE Airmen, as they repair, test and inspect all flight equipment and must ensure it is fully operational for aircrew in everyday and emergency situations.