First Aircraft Launched and Recovered From GHWB Post-Avail

Photo By Petty Officer 1st Class Steven Edgar | 210826-N-LX838-1288 ATLANTIC OCEAN (Aug. 26, 2021) Aviation Boatswain’s Mate (Handling) 1st Class Stephen Vaiza, the flight deck leading petty officer assigned to Air Department on the aircraft carrier USS George H. W. Bush (CVN 77), from Socorro, New Mexico, signals to an MH-60S Sea Hawk helicopter assigned to Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 5, the first aircraft to land on the flight deck since GHWB entered its maintenance period. The ship is operating in the Atlantic Ocean in support of naval operations to maintain maritime stability and security in order to ensure access, deter aggression and defend U.S., allied and partner interests. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Steven Edgar)  

NORFOLK, VIRGINIA, UNITED STATES

08.27.2021

Story by Seaman Bayley Foster 

USS George H.W. Bush (CVN 77)

ATLANTIC OCEAN - The aircraft carrier USS George H. W. Bush (CVN 77) successfully recovered and launched an aircraft Aug. 26 for the first time in over two years.
An MH-60S Sea Hawk helicopter assigned to Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 5 conducted a passenger (PAX) transfer, making it the first aircraft to land on the flight deck since GHWB entered its maintenance period in February 2019. The ship has yet to complete flight deck certification; however, critical and essential operations, such as the delivery of harbor pilots supporting departure from port, are authorized by regulation.
“Our Sailors performed really well during their first aircraft recovery and launch,” said Aviation Boatswain’s Mate (Handling) 1st Class Stephen Vaiza, the flight deck leading petty officer aboard GHWB. “The aircraft landed safely on helo spot nine by the fantail, completed the PAX transfer, and finished with a safe launch.”
GHWB is conducting Sea Trials after spending over two years in a Drydocking Planned Incremental Availability in Norfolk Naval Shipyard.
GHWB is scheduled to conduct carrier qualifications after the completion of Sea Trials. During carrier qualifications, GHWB will test and evaluate equipment and personnel in preparation for a future deployment.
GHWB is currently operating in the Atlantic Ocean in support of naval operations to maintain maritime stability and security in order to ensure access, deter aggression and defend the U.S., allied and partner interests.

• Date Taken: 08.27.2021
• Date Posted: 08.30.2021 17:25
• Story ID: 404125
• Location: NORFOLK, VIRGINIA, US