Mission Statement:
The 81st Aerial Port Squadron deploys trained personnel and serviceable equipment to provide augmentation or stand-alone aerial port operations at ports of embarkation/ debarkation or unit-move locations.
Major Responsibilities:
Responsibilities include cargo processing, aircraft loading/unloading, joint inspection, mobility functions, load-team supervision, engine running on-loads/off-loads and home-station and deployed air terminal operations center, airlift control element, transportation control unit and air departure arrival control group operations.
The five major sections of the 81 APS include: ATOC/ Load planning, Ramp Services, Cargo Processing, Special Handling and Passenger Services. ATOC is the centerpiece of the aerial port squadron and receives all information from the Command Post and then passes that information on to each section that applies. Load planning ensures that the aircraft is loaded in the proper sequence with appropriate restraints. Cargo Processing receives cargo and in-checks the cargo and puts that information into GATES and places cargo into the proper bay location. This section also takes capped out pallets and stores them in grid locations until load planning is ready for the cargo. Special Handling serves as the pivotal point for hazardous materials moving through the military air shipment channel. The 81 APS team consists of twelve members who are qualified to perform hazardous materials inspections and perform joint inspections on equipment. Ramp Services main mission is to teach airmen how to load airplanes. The Ramp section puts pallets or rolling stock on special pieces of equipment, takes them out to the aircraft, loads it on the plane, and ties down all items being transported so when the plane is in the air the items will remain secure. Passenger Services ensures all passengers and cargo are secured on the aircraft and that there is no delay in aircraft departure.
Current as of 2021