Global Ground Support Deicing Simulator Saves Air Force Money, Manpower, Increases Training

Jan. 9, 2015
The 92nd Maintenance Group installed a deicer simulator, allowing airmen to train without using deicing equipment and costly resources.

FAIRCHILD AIR FORCE BASE, Wash. (AFNS) -- With the winter months comes freezing temperatures, snow, frost and ice, but despite the inclement weather the mission continues, making aircraft deicing a main priority for maintainers.

This year, to increase training capabilities and save money and manpower, the 92nd Maintenance Group installed a deicer simulator, allowing Airmen to train without using deicing equipment and costly resources.

"Because of the cost of deicing/anti-icing fluid, new Airmen have been unable to get good hands-on training during winter months," said Staff Sgt. Tyler Mousner, the 92nd MXG Maintenance Qualification Training program instructor. "The Federal Aviation Administration Clean Water Act also requires us to recover the fluid which also cost money. Now they will be able to train indoors and gain proficiency before deicing on the flightline."

The simulator resembles a video game with controls that are an exact replica of the controls in the deicing cab.

"It helps students with muscle memory," said Tech. Sgt. Chris Runge, the 92nd MXG Development Element NCO in charge. "It allows them to get to a level they wouldn't normally get to in a short time period."

More details here.