Risk Management Magazine

As unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) continue to rapidly evolve to meet the needs of our Army, so has their evolution into our aviation formations. Yet, this rapid and somewhat unfettered demand and growth has come at a price, particularly with safety.

Aviation is an inherently dangerous occupation that requires a dedicated team to accomplish the mission. Professionalism is a must. Throughout my military aviation career, I have encountered numerous close calls and a number of in-flight emergencies that I know kept my guardian angels busy.

In the summer of 2017, my unit headed out for a rotation at the National Training Center at Fort Irwin, California, in preparation for a deployment the following spring. This would be the first time since flight school that I would be taking off, flying and landing in actual dust conditions.