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12th Flying Training Wing

The 12th Flying Training Wing, headquartered at Joint Base San Antonio-Randolph, Texas, develops the next generation of Air Force aviators and enlisted aircrew by providing world-class flying training and education. The wing trains Airmen in the fundamentals of airmanship, instruction and leadership, preparing them for success in operational units across the Air Force. Through undergraduate Combat Systems Officer training, Pilot Instructor Training, Introduction to Fighter Fundamentals, Remotely Piloted Aircraft pilot indoctrination, enlisted aviator training, and other specialized programs, the 12th FTW produces skilled, adaptable, and combat-ready professionals capable of meeting the demands of today's complex operating environment while strengthening the future of American airpower.

 

 

12FTW Units

aircraft mechanic, performs maintenance 12th Maintenance Group
12th Maintenance Group
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Photo of an undergaraduate combat systems officer graduation 479th Flying Training Group
479th Flying Training Group
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An Airman inspects an aircraft 12th Operations Group
12th Operations Group
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Articles

Nigerian Air Force leadership visits Columbus AFB, views pilot training program

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Beaux Hebert
  • 14th Flying Training Wing Public Affairs
COLUMBUS AIR FORCE BASE, Miss. --  Columbus Air Force Base’s Specialized Undergraduate Pilot Training program produces some of the world’s greatest aviators for the U.S., but also helps develop aviators of our international partners.

Air Vice-Marshal Aliyu Bello, director of training for the Nigerian Air Force, and other members of the Nigerian Air Force visited Columbus AFB, Mississippi, Jan. 24 to get a firsthand view of the SUPT training program and check on a Nigerian student who is currently in class.

“The Nigerian and U.S. Air Forces have had a long standing history,” Bello said. “Nigerian pilots who have went through training here have excelled (and) peaked in their careers.”

Bello and his group began their visit by exploring a T-6 Texan II simulator. This was a chance for them to see how the simulators aid student pilots throughout the training process. They were able to experience what their students go through on a daily basis and gain an appreciation for the reality the simulators provide without actually taking off.

After the simulator tour, the group was able to check out the various flying squadrons and learn about their operations and history.

Bello and his team also witnessed the new virtual reality equipment SUPT pilots are using to train. After giving it a try himself, Bello seemed pleased and excited with the new technology.

“We are very impressed with the innovations and technology used here to help student pilots train,” Bello said. “We plan to send more [Nigerian student pilots] here in the future.”

The VR technology that the 14th Operations Group uses has the potential to give student pilots more practice by immersing them into a virtual cockpit, allowing them to fix any discrepancies or issues. Bello was eager to find out more information on VR training to help Nigerians improve their own training.

The training offers a more inexpensive approach to give students a more practical and hands-on way of learning without using simulators or time in the aircraft.

Lt. Col. Nathan Smith, 50th Flying Training Squadron commander, met with Bello and his team during their visit and said he thought the tour was successful.

“It’s great for our international partner to visit and understand what their pilot trainee is going through,” Smith said. “I think the tour went outstanding, they certainly enjoyed our VR technology that we are starting to incorporate into our training and it sounds like they are interested in something like that for their own training.”

Public Affairs Information

Tours of the 12th Flying Training Wing are provided to various community organizations, high schools, businesses, and academic military recruitment programs to educate their members about the 12th FTW mission.

Due to the high volume of requests and limited public affairs resources, tours and static displays are limited.

Please submit all requests in writing to the 12th FTW Public Affairs by email to 12ftw.pa.1@us.af.mil at least three weeks but no more than six weeks in advance. You may also call 210-652-1272.

Tours are not available on weekends and may be cancelled at any time because of increased security measures or mission requirements. The 12th FTW does not host tours of Joint Base San Antonio-Randolph at-large. To schedule a tour of JBSA-Randolph, please contact JBSA-Randolph Public Affairs at 502abw.pa.official@us.af.mil or dial 210-652-4410.

If desired, requestors must arrange all meals. PA will provide contact information to base eateries. Modified tours will be granted for those with limited mobility - this must be stated on the tour request. If not stated, it is assumed that mobility is not an issue.