AF Form 4026: Aircrew Training Devices Utilization Guide

AF Form 4026: Aircrew Training Devices Utilization Guide – US Air Force aircrew training relies heavily on simulators and other Aircrew Training Devices (ATDs) to build and maintain proficiency while reducing costs and risks associated with live flying. AF Form 4026, titled Aircrew Training Devices Utilization, serves as the official tool for documenting and reporting how these devices are used.

This article explains the purpose of AF Form 4026, who uses it, how to complete it, its role in broader Air Force training programs, and where to download the latest version.

What Is AF Form 4026?

AF Form 4026 (also referenced as AF IMT Form 4026) is a standardized U.S. Air Force form used to track the utilization of aircrew training devices. It records usage data for simulators, training systems, and related devices employed in aircrew qualification, continuation training, and proficiency maintenance.

The form helps units, Major Commands (MAJCOMs), and higher headquarters (HHQ) monitor training device effectiveness, ensure compliance with training requirements, and support resource allocation decisions.

Key facts:

  • Original release: November 1, 1997 (AF IMT version).
  • Purpose: Document and report utilization of Aircrew Training Devices (ATDs).
  • It supports data collection for metrics such as hours used, types of training conducted, and device availability.

While many legacy AF IMT forms have been digitized or integrated into modern systems, AF Form 4026 remains referenced in current Air Force publications for reporting device utilization.

Purpose of AF Form 4026 in USAF Training

Aircrew Training Devices include full-motion simulators, part-task trainers, and other synthetic training environments. These devices allow pilots, weapon systems officers, and other aircrew to practice emergency procedures, mission scenarios, and currency requirements without consuming flight hours.

AF Form 4026 enables:

  • Accurate tracking of simulator/ATD usage hours.
  • Reporting to HHQ for oversight and trend analysis.
  • Support for readiness reporting under programs like the Ready Aircrew Program (RAP).
  • Justification for maintenance, upgrades, or additional training device resources.

AFPam 11-406 (Aeromedical Training) specifically references Chapter 12 on AF Form 4026, outlining its purpose and instructions for reporting device use, including in physiological training contexts such as airsickness management. Units like Aerospace Physiology Training Units (APTUs) may submit consolidated reports for all devices they operate.

Broader Air Force policy in AFI 10-217 and related instructions requires semi-annual reporting of simulator utilization metrics to AF/A3TI (Training and Readiness). AF Form 4026 supports this by providing granular utilization data that feeds into higher-level tracking of training system health and performance.

Who Uses AF Form 4026?

  • Squadron and unit training managers — responsible for daily logging of ATD sessions.
  • Aerospace Physiology Training Units (APTUs) — for reporting device use in specialized training.
  • MAJCOM training staffs — for consolidation and submission to higher headquarters.
  • Contractor-supported training sites — where applicable, to document utilization of contracted simulators.
  • Stan/Eval and operations personnel — to verify training events conducted in simulators or ATDs.

The form applies across various Mission Design Series (MDS) aircraft programs and aligns with guidance in AFI 11-202 Volume 1 (Aircrew Training) and MDS-specific AFMAN 11-2 series publications.

How to Complete AF Form 4026?

According to referenced instructions (e.g., AFPam 11-406, Chapter 12), the form captures essential utilization details. While exact block-by-block guidance appears in the form itself and associated publications, typical sections include:

  • Unit and reporting period information — Squadron, base, dates covered.
  • Device identification — Type of training device (simulator model, part-task trainer, etc.), location, and configuration.
  • Utilization data — Total hours used, number of sessions, types of training events (qualification, continuation, emergency procedures, etc.).
  • Aircrew information — Number of personnel trained or number of events by crew position.
  • Remarks — Any issues, downtime, or notable observations.
  • Signatures — Prepared by, reviewed by, and approving authorities.

Best practices:

  • Ensure data accuracy, as it supports readiness metrics and potential funding requests.
  • Submit per local and MAJCOM timelines (often monthly or as consolidated for semi-annual reports).
  • Use the form alongside Aviation Resource Management System (ARMS) entries for training events.

For the most current completion instructions, always refer to the official form and the latest version of supporting publications like AFPam 11-406 or applicable AFI 11-2MDS guidance.

Download AF Form 4026

The official fillable PDF is available through the Air Force e-Publishing portal:

→ Download AF Form 4026 here: https://static.e-publishing.af.mil/production/1/af_a1/form/af4026/af4026.pdf

Always verify you are using the most recent version from the official e-Publishing site, as forms and instructions can be updated.

  • AFI 11-202 Volume 1 — Aircrew Training (establishes overall program structure, including use of ATDs).
  • AFMAN 11-202 Volume 1 & 2 — Provides detailed guidance on training, standardization, and evaluation, including simulator events.
  • AFPam 11-406 — Aeromedical Training (includes specific chapter on AF Form 4026).
  • AFI 10-217 — Contains requirements for semi-annual simulator utilization reporting to AF/A3TI.
  • MDS-specific AFMAN 11-2 publications — Detail which training events may or must be accomplished in ATDs.

These documents emphasize that effective utilization of training devices improves safety, reduces live-fly requirements, and enhances overall combat readiness.

Why Proper Utilization Reporting Matters?

Accurate completion of AF Form 4026 contributes to:

  • Better forecasting of training device maintenance and upgrades.
  • Identification of underutilized or overtaxed systems.
  • Compliance with Department of the Air Force readiness reporting.
  • Support for budget justifications related to synthetic training environments.

As the Air Force continues to expand its reliance on advanced simulators and virtual training technologies, consistent utilization tracking becomes increasingly important for optimizing limited flight-hour resources.

Conclusion

AF Form 4026 remains a key administrative tool for documenting Aircrew Training Devices Utilization across the U.S. Air Force. Whether you are a squadron training manager, physiology instructor, or MAJCOM staff officer, proper use of this form helps ensure training data is captured accurately and reported effectively.

For official guidance, always start with the form itself and cross-reference the latest Air Force Instructions and Manuals on e-Publishing. Download the form directly from the provided link and consult your unit’s training or Stan/Eval section for any local supplements or procedures.

Need help? Contact your local training manager or refer to AF/A3TI workflows for simulator utilization metrics questions.

This article is for informational purposes and is based on publicly referenced Air Force publications. Always use official sources and current directives for compliance.