McConnell Airman selected to KC-46 test crew

by Airman 1st Class Tara Fadenrecht
22nd Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs

12/12/2014 - MCCONNELL AIR FORCE BASE, Kan. -- One McConnell Airman was selected, alongside forty-one total force Airmen, to be part of the KC-46A Pegasus initial operational test and evaluation aircrew.

Staff Sgt. Jason Coffey, 22nd Operations Group standards and evaluation boom operator, became the first and only active-duty McConnell Airman to be selected to the crew.

"I've tried to work hard every day, learn something new and really learn from the guys who have been doing it longer," said Coffey.

A typical day at work involves a lot of paperwork, overseeing day-to-day operations throughout the squadrons and flying once a week, said Coffey.

This daily routine will change significantly once training for his new position begins.

He will participate in both academic and flight training before bringing his newly learned skills back to McConnell.

"We will be learning a whole new system," said Coffey. "[The KC-46A] is completely different in a lot of ways, so it's going to be interesting."

This unique assignment was not handed out to just any Airman. Only the most qualified individuals were selected for the opportunity to learn about and operate the new tanker.

"Coffey is a highly experienced KC-135R Stratotanker boom operator and his calm, collected demeanor is an asset as an aircrew member," said Maj. Scot Stewart, 22nd Operations Group standards and evaluation chief and Coffey's supervisor. "He is always willing and able to provide timely inputs, especially during critical phases of flight."

McConnell Air Force Base was selected to be the first main operating base for the KC-46A with the first aircraft scheduled to arrive in 2016.