A I R F ORCE
First in best prepared Often the first to arrive during operations, Air Force’s No. 37 Squadron is also now first to comply with new Defence-wide training regulations. All Defence flying units are required to revise the training of their technicians under the new Defence Aviation Safety Regulation (DASR) 66/147 guidelines, which are closely aligned with internationally recognised standards. In the past two years, No. 37 Squadron has revised the courseware it uses for training technicians to work on the C-130J Hercules transport aircraft. In November 2021, No. 37 Squadron was the first Defence flying unit to be marked as compliant with DASR 66/147 regulations by the Defence Aviation and Safety Authority (DASA). Commanding Officer No. 37
Squadron Wing Commander Anthony Kay said it was a great achievement for the squadron’s Technical Training Flight. “The introduction of DASR 66/147 compliance means we’re producing graduates who are far more advanced in their skills when they are released into the squadron,” Wing Commander Kay said. “This will further improve an already high-performing maintenance system, translating into increased aircraft serviceability and enhanced airworthiness assurance that maintains safe outcomes. “The transition to the new courseware was also carried out whilst maintaining the No. 37 Squadron training schedule, with no additional funding or personnel, and during the COVID-19 pandemic.” No. 37 Squadron has operated a fleet of 12 C-130J Hercules from
RAAF Base Richmond since 1999, and provides airlift support around the world. “The squadron is relatively unique because it delivers its technical training with uniformed personnel for the whole maintenance workforce,” Wing Commander Kay said. “While the Hercules is a wellestablished platform for the squadron, Defence relies on us to sustain operations away from home, often at short notice and for sustained periods. “Our away-base operations require a particularly proficient technical workforce, which this new courseware will help us to secure, well into the future.” The No. 37 Squadron Technical Training Flight instructs avionics technicians and aircraft technicians who have graduated from the RAAF School of Technical Training. Avionics technicians complete
Avionics Technician, Aircraftwoman Chelsea West, furthers her studies in the No. 37 Squadron, Technical Training Flight, at RAAF Base Richmond, NSW . Defence image.
32
AUSTRALIAN PEACEKEEPER
