USS Nimitz Trains New, Returning Naval Aviators

The aircraft carrier USS Nimitz returned to Naval Station Norfolk, Virginia, yesterday, completing its first east coast training underway in support of carrier qualifications for both new and experienced naval aviators. 

Following a brief carrier air traffic control center recertification, the Nimitz began the qualifications for Carrier Air Wing 1 and Strike Fighter Squadron 106. 

“The Nimitz team is beyond proud to support the training and education of our naval aviators at multiple stages of their development,” said Navy Capt. Joseph Furco, Nimitz commander. “With two deployments to three areas of responsibility under our belts in the span of less than two years, this crew has invaluable knowledge and experience to pass on to the warfighters tasked with carrying the torch forward.” 

Qualifications for the fighter squadron included support for naval aviators heading out to the fleet for the first time and those returning from sea-duty assignments in nonflying roles. 

For the new aviators, this represented their first arrested landings, and catapult launches from an aircraft carrier while flying F/A-18E/F Super Hornet strike fighters. 

“After qualifying on [the] Nimitz, these aviators will be ready to head out to the tip of spear, either for the first time, or with previous deployments under their belts,” said Navy Cmdr. Michael Farley, Nimitz air boss. “It is extremely satisfying to know that we are playing an impactful role in getting them ready for whatever challenges they may face.” 

Following the qualifications, student naval aviators practiced landing on and launching from an aircraft carrier for the first time in a T-45C Goshawk training aircraft. 

During the overall underway, the Nimitz supported 103 sorties, 442 arrested landings and 152 touch-and-goes. 

The Nimitz is scheduled to conduct additional carrier qualification underway in advance of its decommissioning next year. 

“While we might be deactivating eventually, the Nimitz’s legacy of teamwork will endure,” Furco said. “The knowledge gained both by our crew and sailors from other commands, training onboard this iconic warship, will permeate the fleet for generations to come, paying dividends toward our Navy’s ability to fight and win.”