CORONADO, Calif. –
The Center for Naval Aviation Technical Training Unit (CNATTU) North Island enhanced its hands-on training capability in January after accepting a stricken MH-60S Seahawk from Helicopter Sea Combat Wing at Naval Air Station North Island.
Declared permanently nonflyable, the aircraft will now serve as a full-scale instructional platform to support aviation maintenance training across multiple ratings and pipelines.
The move from the flight line to CNATTU North Island’s main facility required careful coordination to ensure safety and efficiency. Aviation Structural Mechanic 1st Class (AM1) Christopher Massey, an MH-60 instructor, orchestrated the evolution, which was executed by Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 3 with assistance from base security to manage roadway safety during transport. Once positioned outside the hangar bay, Massey and fellow Instructor AM1 Irish Doblan adjusted the aircraft’s tail struts to ensure proper clearance for entry.
After alignment, a team of CNATTU North Island H-60 instructors, led by Aviation Electrician’s Mate 1st Class Uarian Langerston, pushed the aircraft into the hangar bay, completing the move without incident. The effort highlighted the coordination, teamwork and professionalism of all personnel involved.
“This new addition to our training systems demonstrates our ongoing commitment to excellence in aviation training and ensures that our sailors and Marines are equipped with the skills they need to perform at the highest level when they return to the fleet,” said Cmdr. Robert Kersey, CNATTU North Island commanding officer.
Written by Chief Petty Officer Jack Waldo with the Center for Naval Aviation Technical Training. 