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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

IAST Enhances Aircrew Readiness

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Erica Webster
  • 908th Flying Training Wing
MAXWELL AIR FORCE BASE, Ala. --  

Aircrew training at Maxwell Air Force Base took a step forward with their inaugural session on the Integrated Aircrew Systems Trainer, a state-of-the-art device designed to enhance readiness and efficiency for MH-139A Grey Wolf helicopter crews. The IAST is part of a broader effort to prepare Special Missions Aviators and pilots for critical roles in convoy support, search and rescue, and global strike missions.

“This IAST is a part of a set of devices that we'll be receiving in our training facility to train new students without relying on operational aircraft,” said Senior Master Sgt. Adam Childers, 703rd Helicopter Squadron SMA, and director of acquisitions, renovations, and innovations for the 908th Flying Training Wing’s Program Integration Office. “It’s an invaluable tool that will keep training consistent and available, regardless of weather or maintenance challenges.”

a man checks a helicopter pre-flight

U.S. Air Force Tech. Sgt. Joshua Cowart, special mission aviator with the 703rd Helicopter Squadron, gets hands on with an Integrated Aircrew Systems Trainer during a training session at Maxwell Air Force Base, Alabama on Dec. 11, 2024. This training system is important to the unit because it allows aircrew to gain hands-on experience in a controlled environment without impacting operational aircraft availability. By using the IAST for specialized training, the unit can maximize the readiness of its helicopters for real-world missions. HERE is a second sentence that can be used as well. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Erica Webster)
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The IAST, a repurposed AW-139 helicopter, enables students to practice vital skills such as pre-and-post flight training, egress procedures, and hoist operations. Training sessions are currently led by Boeing and Leonardo instructors, with Air Force personnel receiving knowledge transfer to maintain in-house expertise.

The importance of this new training asset lies in its efficiency and adaptability. By using the IAST, aircrew members can focus on mastering complex procedures, such as low-altitude hoist operations and weapon systems handling, in a controlled environment.

“This training ensures our teams are fully prepared to execute missions that are critical to national security,” Childers added.

As the 908th FTW continues to evolve as the home for MH-139 training, the IAST represents a key investment in the future of aircrew development. With its focus on safety, efficiency, and mission readiness, the trainer is poised to make a lasting impact on rotary-wing operations for years to come.

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.