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Hello, I am getting ready to cross-train into the C5 Loadmaster career field and I was curious what type of weight and balance the C5 used. For example, I know the C130 uses the Form F to calculate weight of the aircraft. What does the C5 use? Do they use a form or have computers on board? Thank you.
Greetings David -
Yes, all aircraft weight and balance calculations are documented on the Form "F". Officially the DD Form 365-F was replaced many years ago with DD Form 365-4, but it's name is still the Form "F".
The main difference in how the calculations are made is the type of "simplified moments" the aircraft uses. Because the C-5 is so much bigger than the C-130, it uses moments simplified by 100,000. I can't tell you if they have "modernized" by incorporating or issuing any sort of calculator or computer, as I haven't crewed a C-5 since 1987. The "B" model had just made its appearance at that time. But I used to be able to load and calculate a full load of 36 pallets with no problem. You get used to doing it pretty quick and will be proficient in no time.
You didn't mention which squadron you were going to be assigned to. I was in the 22nd MAS, Travis AFB, Ca.
Good luck on your new career.
Sincerely,
James Bell
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Answers by Expert:
James Bell
Expertise
I am a retired MSgt (2004) with 24 years experience in the aircrew career field, both as a loadmaster (AFSC 1A2x1) and flight engineer (AFSC 1A1x1). I have been to every continent at one time or another, and regularly flew 300 to 500 hours a year. I have been involved in the operations in Grenada, Panama, Kosovo, Afghanistan and Iraq. I can answer most questions you may have about enlisted Air Force life in general, assignments, benefits, and enlisted aircrew operations. NOTE: If you have specific recruiting and/or medical questions about how to get into this career field as a civilian, they have changed since my time, so that is best answered by a recruiter or MEPS. I can answer questions about military personnel wanting to RETRAIN. If you are asking about being an Air Force pilot, please be advised my area of expertise is ENLISTED aircrew operations, NOT OFFICERS.
Experience
Loadmaster (AFSC 1A2x1): 7 years - 2,000 hours - C-5A Galaxy cargo plane. Flight Engineer (AFSC 1A1x1C): 7 years - 2,500 hours - C-141B Starlifter cargo plane, 10 years - 3,800 hours - KC-10A Extender aerial tanker. Served as aircrew Flight Instructor, Flight Evaluator and Training Manager
Education/Credentials
Aircraft Loadmaster Initial Qualification - 1980. Mission Qualification (C-5A) - 1981. Fixed Wing Aircraft Performance Course - 1987. Initial Flight Engineer Qualification (C-141B) - 1987. Mission Qualification (KC-10A) - 1988. KC-10 Initial Qualification Course - 1994. Mission Qualification (KC-10A) - 1995. Instructor Qualficiation (KC-10A) - 1997. Evaluator Qualification (KC-10A) - 2000.
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