TOKYO, June 2 (Japan News) – Captain Miki Furuya, an officer in the JASDF, has been in service for 24 years and has been a captain since last year. Unlike other pilots who fly fighter jets or transport aircraft, Furuya operates a flight inspection aircraft.
โThis is the plane we use for flight inspections,โ she said, pointing to the specialized aircraft she flies. The Flight Inspection Squadron, to which it belongs, has the essential mission of ensuring the accuracy of the signals pilots rely on during low visibility conditions, such as at night or in bad weather.
Pilots typically use visual signals to land, but in poor visibility they rely on signals from the airport. These signals are a lifeline and the Flight Inspection Squadron flies special aircraft every day to check them.
“There are double the number of antennas on the top and bottom of this plane compared to others,” Furuya explained. The screens on the plane analyze the signals to ensure there are no problems, a process that can take up to two hours of continuous flying.
โI once tried to sit in the panel operator’s seat but got carsick and had to lie down the entire time,โ she added, underscoring the demanding nature of the mission.
After her painstaking and grueling work, Furuya switches to her role as a mother and enjoys the moments of relaxation and family time.
โI love the time where I can think about what I’m going to eat or what my kids have been up to,โ she said.
On this particular day, Furuya faced important flight training with her team, including a signals control operator and a support squad leader.
โV1, rotate,โ she ordered as she guided the plane to check for any anomalies in the airport’s signals. Strong crosswinds made the mission challenging.
“A little to the left,” she confirmed, staying the course despite the wind. The team carefully checked the signals to ensure their accuracy.
โApproach,โ came the command as they approached the airport. The operator confirmed that the signals were within standards.
“Understood,” Furuya replied, completing another successful mission. This rigorous training ensures that JASDF pilots can perform their duties safely, regardless of the time or weather.
โI want to continue to support the JASDF pilots and ensure their safe take-off and landing through accurate flight inspections,โ Furuya said firmly.
Source: NEWS
