A branch of the American Federation of Government Employees union at Davis-Monthan AFB, Mont., has challenged bans the base has placed on the use of handheld cell phones. In addition to imposing a DOD-wide ban on the use of cell phone while driving on military facilities, the Aerospace Maintenance and Regeneration Center at Davis-Monthan extended the ban to cover: while conducting aircraft maintenance and while in a production area where maintenance is in progress or where flammables are present. The AMARC rule also says cell phones must be stored in lockers when not in use. The union wants bargaining rights.
As Air Force leaders consider concepts of operations for Collaborative Combat Aircraft, sustainment in the field—and easing that support by using standard parts and limiting variants—should be a key consideration, according to a new study from AFA's Mitchell Institute of Aerospace Studies.