News Review: First locally trained C-17A pilots graduate | ADM Jul 2010

The first locally trained pilots for the C-17A Globemaster II have graduated form the Boeing-run training centre at RAAF base Amberley.

Flight Lieutenant David Whyte and Pilot Officer Stephen Maunder are the first two RAAF pilots to undertake their conversion course at Amberley.

Until now, all Australian C-17A pilots have been initially trained on the aircraft in the US.

“This is another major step forward as Air Force’s C-17 capability matures,” defence minister Senator John Faulkner said.

“It’s anticipated the use of the newly constructed training facilities at RAAF Base Amberley will produce significant financial and workforce savings compared to sending personnel overseas.

The Aircrew Training System for the C-17A at Amberley was supplied under an FMS agreement and includes Boeing instructors, a full-motion cockpit and separate loadmaster station simulator.

Pilots converting to the C-17A require 350 hours of training provided by Boeing instructors, which includes 120 simulated flight hours.

The trainee pilots then complete the operational conversion by conducting a series of five flights in a real C-17A under the supervision of Air Force Qualified Flying Instructors.

The RAAF will also field a Cargo Compartment Trainer (CCT) in 2012 to help train loadmasters, medics, air movement staff and paratroops configure and use the C-17A cargo compartment.

And AAI/Aerosonde currently operates an avionics maintenance trainer at Amberley for C-17A ground crew.

Australia is the only country outside of the US with its own locally-based C-17A pilot training facilities.

All other Globemaster-operating air forces conduct their C-17A pilot training through the US Air Force.