Officials with the 47th Flying Training Wing at Laughlin AFB, Tex., last week formally opened the base’s new aircraft maintenance operations complex. It is the new home of the wing’s maintenance directorate. Col. Michael Frankel, 47th FTW commander, Michael Johnson, directorate boss, and Rep. Ciro Rodriguez (D) participated in the ribbon-cutting ceremony. The center is valued at more than $7.6 million. The 47th FTW conducts joint specialized undergraduate pilot training for Air Force and allied air forces using T-1, T-6, and T-38 aircraft. (Laughlin photo caption by A1C Blake Mize)
Air Force Changes Rules for Pregnant Aircrew—Again
April 3, 2025
The Air Force is changing its policy for pregnant aircrew, generally reverting to rules set in 2019 that barred female aviators from flying during the first trimester—or from flying in aircraft with ejection seats at all—due to potential risks to the pilot and her unborn fetus.