Aircraft Flight Instructor

Aircraft Flight Instructor Duties

As an Aircraft Flight Instructor, GS-2181-13, duties include:

Plans and implements flight training and instruction for rated pilots and instructor pilots in accordance with the individual needs. For a substantial portion of the time, performs one or more of the following:

• Trains, instructs and evaluates pilots in operating aircraft using advanced instruments flight techniques
• Instructs pilots in methods of instruction and evaluates instructor pilots proficiency to engage in flight instruction
• Instructs pilots in operating advanced attack helicopters or heavy multi-engine advanced transport helicopters
• Conducts training flights involving operating an aircraft through reference to instruments and use of automatic direction-finding equipment such as Omni directional radials, ground control approach, and instrument landing systems on and off Federal airways
• Conducts refresher, mission and continuation combat training in advance attack helicopters involving aggressor and defensive maneuvers and aerial gunnery practice with heavy ordinance and/or trains and instructs pilots in the operation of heavy multi-engine transport helicopters to transport equipment and personnel in combat situations
• Trains pilots in the full range of aircraft maneuvers required in combat situations
• Provides instruction in emergency procedures such as loss of propulsion, directional control, or related systems
• Performs flights in all-weather/environmental conditions, day and night, and using night vision devices
• Prepares and presents related classroom instruction
• Recommends whether pilots remain in flight status

May conduct refresher, mission and continuation training in light fixed wing or utility and observer helicopters. Trains pilots in basic and advanced techniques required to support the pilot's unit mission. Conducts training flights involving a substantial degree of hazard such as training helicopter pilots in advanced flight techniques required in combat situations, tactical flying at night in all weather conditions and with the use of night vision devices, flight maneuvers which take advantage of the terrain, low level flight, short field takeoffs and landings flying in formation, evasive maneuvers and emergency procedures involving engine failures and malfunctions of hydraulic and electrical systems over hazardous terrain.

Performs routine operational flight assignments. Transports passengers including dignitaries to and from a variety of different points. As required, performs maintenance test flights of aircraft following repair or maintenance.

Advises and represents the Commander on all matters concerning aviation/ground safety related to the facility. Ensures facility conforms to Public Law in areas of occupational health and safety. Plans, organizes, and supervises society activities for all personnel assigned to the facility. Publishes and coordinates new and revised directives and procedures designed to promote safety at the facility. Reviews these directives and procedures with the supported aviation unit safety offices.

Acts as the facility liaison officer with all outside safety offices and agencies. Coordinates these activities with the Facility Commander.

Develops, maintains, and rehearses the current accident and pre-accident prevention plans for the aviation facility. Conducts facility safety meetings/lectures and establishes a continuing program to promote the Safety Awareness and Accident Prevention Programs. Ensures effective implementation and compliance with safety directives issued by higher authority pertaining to the facility and assists the Facility Commander in determining the necessity for and issuance of local supplements.

Develops and insures maximum distribution of safety literature and materials to all facility personnel. Makes available and maintains a file of aviation and ground safety materials, directives, and literature. Monitors the safety efforts of the aviation unit safety officers supported by the facility and assists them in the development of their accident prevention programs.

Receives, investigates, and reports on all alleged facility safety violations and safety related suggestions. Monitors technique and proficiency of aircrews in handling weapons, ammunition and POL. Inspects physical conditions of facilities for hazards. Posts all known hazards and recommends or takes action to eliminate hazards. Assists in developing and monitors facility Aviation Life Support Equipment Program. Serves as a member of an accident investigation board when ordered.

Serves as advisor to the facility commander and others on safety concerns or missions such as drug interdiction/eradication supported by the facility.

Performs other duties as assigned.