COMDTINST 16798.1
JAN 30 1997
However, since its inception, Auxiliary Aviation has operated without a standard
command and control network or a standard aircrew training program. That lack of
standard may have been adequate in years past, but as the program matures and the
drawdown in active duty forces continue, it is imperative that Auxiliary aviation be
consolidated into a cohesive force multiplier for "TEAM COAST GUARD." A Quality
Action Team (QAT) was chartered to propose recommendations which would provide
Auxiliary aviation aircrews (pilots and observers) and their customers with the tools to
effect a standard, finely tuned program; one that maximizes flight safety, focuses on
correcting long-standing deficiencies, improves internal as well as external
communications, and instills pride and a sense of ownership in a pro-active program
which provides an essential service to the Coast Guard. Therefore, the following
changes are effective immediately:
5.
IMPLEMENTATION.
a.
NATIONAL STAFF. The current Auxiliary Aviation National Staff is insufficient to
properly manage the Auxiliary Aviation Program. The current staff positions are the
Air Operations Division Chief (DVC-OA), the Flight Safety Branch Chief (BC-OAS),
the Air Augmentation Branch Chief (BC-OAA), and the Air Facilities Branch Chief
(BC-OAF). Conversion of two of the four current positions and the addition of a single
position to oversee Auxiliary Aviation administration management are seen as the first
stage of phased upgrade to the Auxiliary Aviation Program. Only the two converted
positions and the new administration position will be discussed below. The omission of
any discussion concerning the Flight Safety Branch in no way diminishes its
importance. On the contrary, the Flight Safety Branch as well as the entire national staff
will be charged with molding the Auxiliary Aviation Program into an effective force
multiplier. Once the modifications and additions to the national staff are in place, a
primary goal of the Air Operations Division Chief (DVC-OA) will be to review the
existing Auxiliary aviation organizational structure(s) to maximize availability and use
of Auxiliary aviation assets (i.e., pros/cons of aviation only flotillas, command and
control within districts, affiliation with Groups, Air stations, etc.).
(1)
Convert the Air Augmentations Branch (BC-OAA) in the Department of
Operations to the Aviation Training Branch (BC-OAT). Branch
responsibilities will include the establishment of a standardization and training
program similar to the one used in the active duty's aviation program. The
branch will develop, coordinate, and insure the standard
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