CEM Code 1A200 Journeyman AFSC 1A251
AFSC 1A291, Superintendent Apprentice AFSC 1A231
AFSC 1A271, Craftsman Helper AFSC 1A211
AIRCRAFT LOADMASTER
(Changed 30 Apr 98)
1. Specialty Summary. Accomplishes loading and off loading aircraft functions; performs pre-flight and post-flight
of aircraft and aircraft systems. Performs loadmaster aircrew functions, computes weight and balance and other
mission specific qualification duties. Provides for safety and comfort of passengers and troops, and security
of cargo, mail, and baggage during flight. Conducts cargo and personnel airdrops. Supervises loadmaster activities
and related functions, including aircraft loading and off loading activities, cargo handling, and restraint. Related
DoD Occupational Subgroup: 050.
2. Duties and Responsibilities:
2.1. Reviews aircraft weight and balance records and cargo manifest. Determines quantity of cargo and passengers
or troops to be loaded and proper placement in aircraft. Computes load and cargo distribution. Computes weight
and balance, and determines the amount of weight to be placed in each compartment or at each station. Considers
factors such as fuel load, aircraft structural limits, and emergency equipment required.
2.2. Accomplishes initial pre-flight of aircraft according to flight manuals; pre-flights specific aircraft systems
such as restraint rail and airdrop equipment. Operates radios, pre-flights aerospace ground equipment, and applies
external power to the aircraft. Performs in-flight and special mission specific duties as required.
2.3. Supervises aircraft loading and off loading. Uses equipment such as 25K, 40K, and 60K loaders; forklifts;
and winches. Ensures cargo and passengers are loaded according to load distribution plan. Directs application
of restraint devices such as restraint rails, straps, chains, and nets to prevent shifting during flight. Checks
cargo, passengers, and troops against manifests.
2.4. Ensures availability of fleet service equipment such as blankets and pillows. Signs for and stows in-flight
meals. Briefs passengers and troops on use of seat belts, facilities, and border clearance requirements. Dispenses
meals and refreshments. Demonstrates use of emergency equipment such as oxygen masks and life vests, and ensures
access to escape hatches. Monitors cargo and passengers in-flight and assists passengers as required.
2.5. Conducts cargo and personnel airdrops according to directives. Attaches extraction parachutes to cargo and
platforms. Inspects cargo and platforms, extraction systems and connects static lines. Checks tiedowns, parachutes,
containers, suspension systems, and extraction systems to ensure proper cargo extraction or release. Operates
aircraft personnel airdrop system and supervises paratroopers exiting the aircraft.
3. Specialty Qualifications:
3.1. Knowledge. Knowledge is mandatory of: types, capacities, and configuration of transport aircraft; arithmetic;
emergency equipment and in-flight emergency procedures; personal equipment and oxygen use; communications; current
flying directives; interpreting diagrams, loading charts, and technical publications; border agency clearance dispensing
and preserving food aboard aircraft; and cargo restraint techniques.
3.2. Education. For entry into this specialty, completion of high school with courses in mathematics or general
science is desirable.
3.3. Training. Completion of the Aircraft Loadmaster course is mandatory for award of AFSC 1A231.
3.4. Experience. The following experience is mandatory for award of the AFSC indicated:
3.4.1. 1A251. Qualification in and possession of AFSC 1A231. Also, knowledge of types, capacities, and configuration
of transport aircraft; weight and balance factors, arithmetic; cargo restraint techniques; emergency equipment
and in-flight emergency procedures; using personal equipment and oxygen, communications; current flying directives;
interpreting diagrams, loading charts, and applicable technical publications; border agency clearance requirements
and forms; principles of dispensing and preserving food aboard aircraft; operation of cargo loading equipment;
and cargo and personnel airdrop techniques and equipment.
3.4.2. 1A271. Qualification in and possession of AFSC 1A251. Also, experience in types, capacities, and configuration
of transport aircraft; airdrop techniques; weight and balance factors; arithmetic; emergency equipment and in-flight
emergency procedures; personal equipment and oxygen use; communications; current flying directives; interpreting
diagrams, loading charts, and applicable technical publications; border agency clearance requirements and forms;
principles of dispensing and preserving food aboard aircraft; and cargo restraint techniques.
3.4.3. 1A291. Qualification in and possession of AFSC 1A271. Also, experience in directing functions such as
loading military cargo aircraft and establishing procedures for maintaining related records.
3.5. Other: The following are mandatory as indicated:
3.5.1. For entry, award, and retention of these AFSCs:
3.5.1.1. Physical qualification for aircrew duty according to AFI 48-123, Medical Examination and Standards, Class
III medical standards.
3.5.1.2. Qualification for aviation service according to AFI 11-402, Aviation And Parachutist Service, Aeronautical
Ratings and Badges.
3.5.2. For award and retention of AFSCs 1A231/51/71/91/00, eligibility for a secret security clearance according
to AFI 31-501, Personnel Security Program Management.
