McConnell Airman selected for KC-46 test crew

Photo By Staff Sgt. David Bernal Del Agua | Staff Sgt. Jason Coffey, 22nd Operations Group standards and evaluation boom operator, stands in front of his squadron patch, Jan. 16, 2014, at McConnell Air Force Base, Kan. Coffey recently became the first and only active-duty McConnell Airman to be selected to the KC-46A Pegasus initial operational test and evaluation aircrew. (U.S. Air Force photo/Airman 1st Class Bernal Del Agua)  

MCCONNELL AIR FORCE BASE, KS, UNITED STATES

12.12.2014

Story by Airman 1st Class Tara Fadenrecht 

22nd Air Refueling Wing

MCCONNELL AIR FORCE BASE, Kan. - One McConnell Airman was selected, alongside 41 total force Airmen, to be part of the KC-46A Pegasus initial operational test and evaluation aircrew.

Staff Sgt. Jason Coffey, 22nd Operations Group standards and evaluation boom operator, became the first and only active-duty McConnell Airman to be selected to the crew.

“I’ve tried to work hard every day, learn something new and really learn from the guys who have been doing it longer,” said Coffey.

A typical day at work involves a lot of paperwork, overseeing day-to-day operations throughout the squadrons and flying once a week, said Coffey.

This daily routine will change significantly once training for his new position begins.

He will participate in both academic and flight training before bringing his newly learned skills back to McConnell.

“We will be learning a whole new system,” said Coffey. “[The KC-46A] is completely different in a lot of ways, so it’s going to be interesting.”

This unique assignment was not handed out to just any Airman. Only the most qualified individuals were selected for the opportunity to learn about and operate the new tanker.

“Coffey is a highly experienced KC-135R Stratotanker boom operator and his calm, collected demeanor is an asset as an aircrew member,” said Maj. Scot Stewart, 22nd Operations Group standards and evaluation chief and Coffey’s supervisor. “He is always willing and able to provide timely inputs, especially during critical phases of flight.”

McConnell Air Force Base was selected to be the first main operating base for the KC-46A with the first aircraft scheduled to arrive in 2016.

• Date Taken: 12.12.2014
• Date Posted: 12.12.2014 13:37
• Story ID: 150198
• Location: MCCONNELL AIR FORCE BASE, KS, US