MARINE CORPS AIR STATION MIRAMAR, Calif. -- Standing on the ledge of an F/A-18 Hornet, a Marine carefully checks all the outer components of the aircraft.
The Marine, known as a powerline mechanic, inspects every piece of the jet’s engine and fuel system to ensure the aircraft will function properly during its upcoming flight.
The powerline mechanics of Marine All-Weather Fighter Attack Squadron 242 keep their Hornet’s flight ready by performing daily inspections and keeping all parts of the aircraft’s engine and power systems in working order.
“We’re like the squadron’s Jiffy Lube,” said Cpl. Robert Lee, a powerline mechanic with the Bats.
Without the work of the powerline Marines the aircraft would not go anywhere, according to Sgt. Michael Homola, a corrosion control specialist with the squadron.
“Powerline Marines are extremely important because essentially we put our lives in their hands every day,” Capt. Jason B. Ladd, a pilot with the squadron.
The inspections performed by powerline Marines vary from short daily inspections to lengthy weekly inspections, explained Pfc. Brantly Corrigan, a powerline mechanic with the squadron.
If the Marines find a discrepancy during their inspection, the aircraft won’t fly until it has been repaired, explained Corrigan.
“One of the most common problems we run into is leaking engines,” said Corrigan. “It’s fairly easy to fix those.”
The Marines fix oil and fuel leaks by troubleshooting the aircraft and replacing the packagings of the area leaking.
The powerline mechanics also serve as plane captains, Marines who prepare the aircraft for flight, and perform checks on all the systems while preparing the aircraft for takeoff, explained Lee. They also walk the pilot through his preflight inspection.
When an aircraft lands, the Marines guide the jet back to its proper place on the flight line and perform a post-flight inspection.
During the post-flight inspection, a powerline mechanic checks for any problems with the aircraft such as loose panels, leaks or punctures while another Marine, from the powerline shop, services the jet’s engine and checks the aircraft’s oil.
When the aircraft passes inspection, the powerline Marines have ensured the aircraft is mission ready and have helped ensure the pilot’s safety.