ProFessional loadmaster association

What is a Loadmaster?

1. Specialty Summary: 

Accomplishes loading and off loading aircraft functions; performs pre-flight and post-flight of aircraft and aircraft systems. Performs loadmaster aircrew functions, computes weight and balance and other mission specific qualification duties. Provides for safety and comfort of passengers and troops, and security of cargo, mail, and baggage during flight. Conducts cargo and personnel airdrops. Supervises loadmaster activities and related functions, including aircraft loading and off loading activities, cargo handling, and restraint. 

2. Duties and Responsibilities: 

2.1 Reviews aircraft weight and balance records and cargo manifest. Determines quantity of cargo and passengers or troops to be loaded and proper placement in aircraft. Computes load and cargo distribution. Computes weight and balance, and determines the amount of weight to be placed in each compartment or at each station. Considers factors such as fuel load, aircraft structural limits, and emergency equipment required.

2.2 Accomplishes initial pre-flight of aircraft according to flight manuals; pre-flights specific aircraft systems such as restraint rail and airdrop equipment. Operates radios, pre-flights aerospace ground equipment, and applies external power to the aircraft. Performs in-flight and special mission specific duties as required. 

2.3 Supervises aircraft loading and off loading. Uses equipment such as 25K, 40K, and 60K loaders; forklifts; and winches. Ensures cargo and passengers are loaded according to load distribution plan. Directs application of restraint devices such as restraint rails, straps, chains, and nets to prevent shifting during flight. Checks cargo, passengers, and troops against manifests.

2.4 Ensures availability of fleet service equipment such as blankets and pillows. Signs for and stows in-flight meals. Briefs passengers and troops on use of seat belts, facilities, and border clearance requirements. Dispenses meals and refreshments. Demonstrates use of emergency equipment such as oxygen masks and life vests, and ensures access to escape hatches. Monitors cargo and passengers in-flight and assists passengers as required. 

2.5 Conducts cargo and personnel airdrops according to directives. Attaches extraction parachutes to cargo and platforms. Inspects cargo and platforms, extraction systems and connects static lines. Checks tiedowns, parachutes, containers, suspension systems, and extraction systems to ensure proper cargo extraction or release. Operates aircraft personnel airdrop system and supervises paratroopers exiting the aircraft.

3. Specialty Qualifications:  

3.1 Knowledge. Knowledge is mandatory of: types, capacities, and configuration of transport aircraft; arithmetic; emergency equipment and in-flight emergency procedures; personal equipment and oxygen use; communications; current flying directives; interpreting diagrams, loading charts, and technical publications; border agency clearance dispensing and preserving food aboard aircraft; and cargo restraint techniques. 

3.2 Education. For entry into this specialty, completion of high school with courses in mathematics or general science is desirable. 

3.3 Training. Completion of the Aircraft Loadmaster course is mandatory for award of AFSC 1A231. 

3.4 Experience. The following experience is mandatory for award of the AFSC indicated:  

3.4.1 1A251. Qualification in and possession of AFSC 1A231. Also, knowledge of types, capacities, and configuration of transport aircraft; weight and balance factors, arithmetic; cargo restraint techniques; emergency equipment and in-flight emergency procedures; using personal equipment and oxygen, communications; current flying directives; interpreting diagrams, loading charts, and applicable technical publications; border agency clearance requirements and forms; principles of dispensing and preserving food aboard aircraft; operation of cargo loading equipment; and cargo and personnel airdrop techniques and equipment.

3.4.2 1A271. Qualification in and possession of AFSC 1A251. Also, experience in types, capacities, and configuration of transport aircraft; airdrop techniques; weight and balance factors; arithmetic; emergency equipment and in-flight emergency procedures; personal equipment and oxygen use; communications; current flying directives; interpreting diagrams, loading charts, and applicable technical publications; border agency clearance requirements and forms; principles of dispensing and preserving food aboard aircraft; and cargo restraint techniques. 

3.4.3 1A291. Qualification in and possession of AFSC 1A271. Also, experience in directing functions such as loading military cargo aircraft and establishing procedures for maintaining related records.

3.5 Other. The following are mandatory as indicated: 

3.5.1 For entry, award, and retention of these AFSCs: 

3.5.1.1 Physical qualification for aircrew duty according to AFI 48-123, Medical Examination and Standards, Class III medical standards. 

3.5.1.2 Qualification for aviation service according to AFI 11-402, Aviation And Parachutist Service, Aeronautical Ratings and Badges.

3.5.2 For award and retention of AFSCs 1A231/51/71/91/00, eligibility for a secret security clearance according to AFI 31-501, Personnel Security Program Management.