Fuels system Airmen fuel fight

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Grace Nichols
  • 19th Airlift Wing Public Affairs

The 19th Maintenance Squadron Fuel Systems repair team works around the clock on approximately 60 aircraft at Little Rock Air Force Base, Arkansas. Fuels Airmen enter confined spaces less than two feet in circumference to diagnose malfunctions, seal and maintain components of the fuel tank.

“Our main priority is to perform maintenance and perform it safely,” said U.S. Air Force Senior Airman Mitchell Hunt, 19th MXS Fuel Systems journeyman. “Without fuel tanks, there would be no way to hold fuel, so there’d be no way to fly.”

It’s the team’s responsibility to make repairs after a fuel leak is suspected. It takes more than hopping in the tank to get the job done; Airmen in the shop must complete a specific process before entering.

The day begins where the last shift left off. The crew lead gives a turnover briefing to accurately explain what still has to be done. Afterward, the team moves on to checking out gear and filling out checklists.

“Preparation is the most important part of our job because of the inherent dangers,” said U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Craig Martin, 19th MXS Fuel Systems craftsman. “Some of the dangers are engulfment and asphyxiation from the fumes.”

Airmen review a checklist to ensure operational criteria has been signed off before the work area is cleared of hazards. Airmen don respirator masks after they’re inspected for cleanliness, equipment for checking the atmosphere inside is prepared and the Airmen are almost ready to enter the tank.

A single individual is not solely responsible for the task; it is divided among three people: The attendant, the entrant and the runner. Their credentials must be verified before entering the tank.

The entrant is in charge of maintenance, the attendant is responsible for overseeing the well-being of the entrant during the process and the runner gathers tools.

The entrant will check for leaks and parts that aren’t operating properly and make repairs.

When the team isn’t working on an aircraft, the focus is on training and honing their skills because fuel systems maintenance requires the highest attention to detail. Every tool must be accounted for and every step must be followed in a prescribed order. Failure to follow published guidance is not an option.

“It’s nice to know that what we do is important to keeping the mission going and ensuring aircraft can fly,” Martin said.

Shops like the fuels systems flight contribute to the Air Force’s global reach. Without fuel systems specialists, an aircraft wouldn’t get off the ground to deliver cargo and support, making fuels systems a key component to fueling the fight.