Modern aircraft carriers are capable of launching aircraft every 20 seconds. That means the flight deck can get pretty busy, so solid management and communication are essential to preventing chaos. As an Aviation Boatswain’s Mate – Aircraft Handling (ABH), you ensure smooth launch and recovery operations by carefully directing the movement of all aircraft. Supervise every turn, tow and park, and secure them to the deck. Wherever they go, you’ll be the guide.

RESPONSIBILITIES

Aviation Boatswain’s Mate – Aircraft Handling (ABH) Sailors supervise the movement of Naval aircraft and perform rescue duties when necessary. In this role, specific responsibilities may include:

• Assisting with the launch and recovery of aircraft
• Spotting and securing aircraft and equipment
• Performing crash rescue and crash removal duties in connection with aircraft launch and recovery
• Firefighting and damage control duties
• Operating and maintaining ground-handling equipment used for moving and hoisting aircraft

WORK ENVIRONMENT

• Most of the work in this rating is performed outdoors on the flight decks of amphibious and aircraft carriers, in all climates and conditions, including hazardous environments. The work is fast-paced and ABHs typically work closely with others in aviation ratings. You will not spend your entire career at sea; you may also work with an aircraft squadron during a shore duty rotation.

QUALIFICATIONS AND REQUIREMENTS

• U.S. citizen or equivalent
• High school graduate or equivalent
• 17 years of age or older

PAY AND BENEFITS

From the day you start, you’ll receive:

• Competitive salary
• Potential to earn a bonus upon enlistment
• Free health insurance
• Free housing
• A retirement plan
• Paid training

EDUCATION OPPORTUNITIES

• Navy College Program and Tuition Assistance
• Post-9/11 GI Bill, up to 100% tuition
• Professional credentials and certifications
• College credit hours toward a bachelor’s or associate degree through the American Council on Education

PART-TIME OPPORTUNITIES

• Serving part-time as a Navy Reserve Sailor, your duties will be carried out during your scheduled drilling and training periods. During monthly drilling, Aviation Boatswain’s Mates in the Navy Reserve typically work at a location close to their homes.
• For annual training, you may serve anywhere in the world, including locations in the U.S., at bases overseas, or in areas where humanitarian needs are great.

America’s Navy is approximately 450,000 Sailors, 300 ships and submarines, and 3,700 aircraft strong. Water and salt flow through our veins in the same proportion as the sea. That mighty force is the lifeblood of the greatest Navy ever to sail unstoppably upon it, slip stealthily beneath it or fly unchallenged above it. And we defend with honor, courage, and commitment every hour of every day. We are America’s Navy. We are forged by the sea.