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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

Venom 19-01 provides Holloman's operations, maintenance personnel unique experience

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. BreeAnn Sachs
  • 49th Wing Public Affairs
HILL AIR FORCE BASE, Utah --  

Amidst the low temperatures and high operations tempo of the 311th Fighter Squadron’s exercise Venom 19-01, many operations and maintenance personnel are provided the opportunity to view their work from the skies in a familiarization flight.

“It’s good payback to show people the mission they are supporting, because without them we couldn’t fly our missions every day,” said Capt. Danielle Park, 311th FS instructor pilot. “They get to see what a mission is like from stepping out the door, getting in the jet, flying and the pilot explains what is going on.”

Chosen based on their merit, time in service and previous FAM flight experience, 19 operations and maintenance personnel have taken to the skies in the backseat of an F-16 Viper between April 23 and 29, 2019.

For Airman 1st Class Mequail Fridge, 311th Aircraft Maintenance Unit crew chief, the chance to fly in an F-16 was one he could not pass up.

“It was awesome,” said Fridge. “I was afraid at first, but I would for sure want to do it again.”

While the enjoyment of the passenger is priority, pilots providing FAM flights also try to make the experience educational.

“They hop in the back seat and ride along on a normal mission and get a lot more information and insight into what we do every day,” said Park.

While maintenance personnel have the opportunity to watch their aircraft take off and land each day, the experience of flying in one provides a more well-rounded view of their impact on the mission and their level of responsibility.

“You get more appreciation for what the pilots do, it gives you an incentive to work harder,” said Fridge.

In addition to the educational experience of a FAM flight, some fliers are inspired to alter their long-term goals after the experience.

“I’ve given quite a few familiarization flights and they are rewarding because you get to fly an individual that has never been in an F-16,” said Park. “Sometimes we inspire individuals to want to be a pilot, flying is that spark. I’ve seen a few individuals who try and pursue that after getting a FAM flight.”

Park said the goal is to fly eight FAM fliers per day for the duration of the temporary duty assignment. Venom 19-01 is scheduled to last until the end of this week, providing many more potentially life-changing experiences to deserving operations and maintenance personnel.

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.