Crash recovery team provides liftoff Published Aug. 1, 2013 By Airman 1st Class Trevor T. McBride 48th Fighter Wing Public Affairs ROYAL AIR FORCE LAKENHEATH, England -- Airmen from the 48th Equipment Maintenance Squadron preformed an aircraft lift operation as they rallied for annual aircraft recovery training July 27. The skills these Airmen use during day-to-day operations are essential and pay off when responding to a real-world disaster. "For our training, we can simulate the aircraft incident," said Tech. Sgt. Matthew Perry, 48th EMS repair and reclamation team chief. "Yet, we can still actually perform the hands-on operation itself instead of sitting in a classroom showing visuals of everyone's role." A successful aircraft lift has been reached once the wheels of the aircraft are no longer in contact with the ground. To lift the more than 37,000 pound aircraft, Airmen use high-capacity air bags. Since the air bags can be unstable, this method is typically used as a last resort in an aircraft recovery. The Airmen are taught that safety and quality of the lift are more important than the time spent doing it. According to Master Sgt. Kevin Fogo, 48th EMS repair and reclamation team chief, the air bags can lift up to 90,000 pounds. This extra capacity allows them to lift aircraft that may have additional equipment or gear inside, adding to the gross weight. In this career field, Airmen are given in-depth initial training at Sheppard Air Force Base, Texas. However, they must maintain their annual refresher training requirements at their installation. By preparing Airmen prior to any potential crisis, the aircraft recovery team can be confident that any member tasked to respond is fully capable to do the job. "We are always preparing for the day we hope never comes," said Fogo.