Putting a ‘phase’ to the name: 31 MXS maintains Aviano’s excellence

Staff Sgt. Nathan Lewis, 31st Maintenance Squadron phase inspection team member, inspects hydraulic landing gear components on an F-16 Fighting Falcon at Aviano Air Base, Italy on Oct. 13, 2016. During a phase inspection, the jet undergoes a wide variety of maintenance like tire pressure checks and complete engine removal. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Austin Harvill/Released)

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Putting a ‘phase’ to the name: 31 MXS maintains Aviano’s excellence

Staff Sgts. Ralph Dunn and Stephen Babayco, 31st Maintenance Squadron phase inspection team members, perform maintenance on an F-16 Fighting Falcon’s engine at Aviano Air Base, Italy on Oct. 13, 2016. Avionics, sheet metal and fuels system Airmen also join the phase inspection team depending on the maintenance required. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Austin Harvill/Released)

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Putting a ‘phase’ to the name: 31 MXS maintains Aviano’s excellence

Published Oct. 17, 2016
By Senior Airman Austin Harvill
31st Fighter Wing Public Affairs

AVIANO AIR BASE, Italy -- The 31st Maintenance Squadron phase inspection team practically takes apart and rebuilds the 31st Fighter Wing’s F-16 Fighting Falcons during different “phases” in each jet’s lifespan. Some jets might be due for fluid changes while others need a full engine inspection. The team aims to complete as much work as possible while the jet is in their care.