Aircraft Maintenance in record time!

The 76th Aircraft Maintenance Unit maintains three distinguished visitor aircraft – the C-21, C-20 and C-40 – without military maintainers. Sixty contractors make up the majority of the work force.

 The U.S. Air Forces in Europe’s mission capability rate is 85 percent, but the 76th AMU tops that at 96.8 percent. They have exceeded their goal for as long as they’ve been in existence, said Master Sgt. William Ewest, C-40 crew chief. 

 The 76th AMU maintainers do more work with fewer individuals because of their vast knowledge of each plane, Sergeant Ewest said. The AMU does not have specialists for each task. Instead, a group of maintainers do everything from fueling the aircraft to providing security for distinguished visitors.

“That’s important in today’s Air Force with all of the personnel cutbacks,” said Thomas Carry, C-20 site manager. 

 All of the contractors have the required licenses and most have three to four additional ones. Not only do they have higher levels of qualifications but also many years of experience. Chris Becherer, C-21 site manager, has 17 years of experience and began work at Scott Air Force Base, Ill., as a floor mechanic. Mr. Carry has 23 years experience and got his start as a naval jet engine mechanic.

 “My guys live and breathe the flying schedule and do whatever it takes to get the job done in record time,” said Mr. Carry.