Robust analysis of the joint strike fighter integrated training center pilot scheduling

Abstract

This thesis focuses on analyzing factors that affect a student's time to train (TTT) as he/she completes the Joint Strike Fighters (JSF) pilot training syllabus at the Integrated Training Center (ITC) on Eglin Air Force Base. It identifies the most robust course of action (COA), provides accurate TTT estimates, and identifies a watch list of factors that have the most effect on TTT. The results of this thesis provide a basis and a justification for procurement and resource decisions for the JSF. They also provide a means to ensure a proper flow of pilots to operational commands, reduce unnecessary flights, and enable the ITC to complete its mission while remaining within monthly flight time and airframe limits. It can also help predict the impact of future resource decisions, and assist commanders in mitigating their operational effect. The primary recommendation for reducing TTT is to have students work 11 hours per day and have the workday start at or after 0900. Increasing the number of full motion simulator (FMS), while reducing TTT, is not justified. Although a limited resource, airspace is not a potential bottleneck in the system and any change, short of elimination, has very little influence on TTT.Flight refly rates and aircraft failure rates above 12% and 13% respectively significantly increase TTT and must be carefully monitored.