The 23d Flying Training Squadron is the U.S. Air Force’s primary source of helicopter pilots and career enlisted aviators for special operations, combat search and rescue, missile support, and distinguished visitor airlift missions. It conducts undergraduate helicopter training, UHT. The 23rd also develops and coordinates flying syllabi, academic lessons, and operating instructions for UHT.
Leadership
Commander, 23d Flying Training Squadron
Lt Col Cindy M. Tope
Lt Col Tope is the commander for the 23d Flying Training Squadron (23 FTS), Fort Rucker, Alabama. She is responsible for all training and flying operations for the Air Force’s only rotary wing undergraduate pilot training unit. The 23 FTS executes the 58th Special Operations Wing’s largest flying hour program, totaling 10,063 flight hours, operates 28 TH-1H helicopters, and produces...READ MORE
Senior Enlisted Leader, 23d Flying Training Squadron
MSgt Eric C, McElroy
MSgt McElroy is the 23d Flying Training Squadron Senior Enlisted Leader at Fort Novosel, AL. He is responsible for advising the Commander at the United States Air Forces only helicopter UPT training unit, graduating 176 aviators annually. Additionally, MSgt McElroy is an Evaluator Special Missions Aviator with almost 1900 flight hours in the UH-1N. MSgt McElroy plays an integral role....READ MORE