FORT INDIANTOWN GAP, Pa. –
As the home of both a combat aviation brigade and an aviation training site, Muir Army Heliport here is one of the busiest heliports in the Army.
The heliport, which is home to the 28th Expeditionary Combat Aviation Brigade and the Eastern Army National Guard Aviation Training Site, averages about 4,000 operations a month. Each takeoff and landing is considered an operation, and an aircraft can conduct multiple operations in a single flight mission.
Also located at Muir, Army Aviation Support Facility #1 has the critical mission of providing maintenance support to the 28th ECAB and EAATS.
“Working alongside some of the most experienced maintainers in the commonwealth, AASF #1 prides itself on a team that can be trusted with tasks traditionally handled at a higher level,” said Lt. Col. Michael Bertsch, commander of AASF #1.
With 75% of its operations dedicated to the meticulous art of aircraft maintenance, AASF #1 is one of the largest and most diverse maintenance facilities in the United States. The facility has a unique ability to perform a wide variety of maintenance tasks internally, drastically reducing the downtime typically incurred due to maintenance requirements. This achievement is attributed not only to the organizational structure but also to the exceptional talent that each employee brings to the table.
Comprising six distinct maintenance teams, the facility performs both line and heavy maintenance operations, including phase maintenance inspections every 480 hours on the UH-60 Black Hawks.
The mission of AASF #1 is unique, supporting two agencies with operational requirements that demand a relentless commitment to the mission. Operating on two shifts and nearly 18 hours daily, the facility handles a substantial inventory of repair parts and bench stock.
The team manages over 10,000 lines of bench stock, spare parts that are readily available and kept on hand for repair, and Prescribed Load List Items.
AASF #1's comprehensive approach includes production control, quality assurance, and Maintenance Test Pilot personnel. This team ensures a seamless flow of maintenance operations, conducting a final review of aircraft before release to the crews. Stringent adherence to regulations is paramount, and all documentation is meticulously checked to meet the highest standards.
The facility is not only equipped for frontline maintenance but also boasts a talented group of personnel specializing in backshop and maintenance support. This strategic approach significantly reduces downtime on-site, eliminating the need to wait for field maintenance or shipping parts out for repair. This proactive measure ensures a more streamlined and efficient workflow.
Despite the impressive operations at AASF #1, the facility is not without its challenges. Personnel shortages and the implementation of new systems that slow down parts and repairs have tested the resilience of the maintenance teams.
However, Bertsch says the dedication of the AASF #1 staff prevails, pushing through these challenges to maintain their commitment to completing the mission.
“Annually supporting a staggering 7,000 flight hours between two organizations, AASF #1 remains an essential hub for all maintenance operations required to keep aircraft in the sky,” said Bertsch.