A Simulation Approach to Address Mq-9 Flying Training Unit Manning Shortfalls

Increased use of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV) by the United States Air Force (USAF) has put a strain on flying training units responsible for producing aircrew. An increase in student quotas, coupled with new training requirements stemming from a transition to the MQ-9 airframe, impact the resources needed to meet the desired level of student throughput. This research uses historical data of a UAV flying training unit to develop a simulation model of daily operations within a training squadron. Current requirements, operations, and instructor manning levels are used to provide a baseline assessment of the relationship between unit manning and aircrew production. Subsequent analysis investigates the effects of course frequency, class size, and quantity of instructors on student throughput. Results from this research recommend novel approaches in course execution to more fully utilize instructor capacity and inform UAV flying training units on appropriate manning levels required to meet USAF needs.