A second T-1A Jayhawk flight simulator joined the 71st Operations Group at Vance AFB, Okla. When fully up and running later this year, the simulator will help relieve strain on the base’s advanced specialized training fleet. The $3.7 million 240-degree field-of-view cockpit sim is designed to accurately replicate complex weather and scenarios at more than 200 airfields, according to group officials. “This simulator has the ability to allow students to link multiple simulators together” as well, said Michael Rathmann, 71st OG simulation project officer. Vance, one of three specialized undergraduate pilot training locations for tanker/transport pilots, received its first Jayhawk simulator from L-3 Communications less than two years ago. The new one arrived on Feb. 22. Installation is scheduled to take place through mid April, followed by delivery of the simulator’s visual section in May. (Vance report by A1C Frank Casciotta)
OA-1K Skyraider Crashes in Oklahoma, Crew Uninjured
Oct. 24, 2025
An Air Force OA-1K Skyraider II crashed near Oklahoma City on Oct. 23, with a civilian contractor and Active-duty Airman escaping uninjured. The OA-1K was on a training mission when the crash occurred, less than 10 miles from the base.
