Executive Mission Aviators deliver safety, service, aircraft systems expertise, and secure communications in direct support of national leadership worldwide.
The EMA Community
Three enlisted aircrew specialties — one integrated operational team. Select a crew position to learn more.
Flight Attendant (FA)
Ensure passenger safety, mission service, and cabin operations — while remaining ready for contingencies at all times.
- Execute passenger safety briefings, cabin safety procedures, and emergency response
- Manage cabin operations in a high-visibility, zero-defect environment
- Support mission requirements with professionalism and absolute discretion
Career Videos
Communication Systems Operator (CSO)
Enable secure voice and data connectivity — managing mission communications across dynamic, time-critical environments worldwide.
- Operate secure and non-secure communications and mission information flow
- Configure and troubleshoot onboard communications systems in flight and on the ground
- Support continuity of leadership communications during time-sensitive operations
Flight Engineer (FE)
Focus on aircraft performance and systems management — ensuring the mission remains safe, efficient, and on schedule at all times.
- Compute performance, weight & balance, and mission planning considerations
- Monitor aircraft systems and coordinate abnormal and emergency actions
- Serve as a key advisor to the aircraft commander on capability and limitations
Mission Environment
- Support executive airlift operations across multiple aircraft platforms
- Operate in dynamic, high-visibility environments worldwide
- Execute mission-critical duties under time-sensitive and austere conditions
- Represent the United States Air Force at the highest levels
Eligibility & Profile
- Enlisted Airmen eligible for retraining or cross-training
- Ability to meet aircrew medical and physical standards
- Eligibility for a Top Secret clearance
- Demonstrated professionalism, judgment, and adaptability
- Minimum retainability following qualification
Retraining: AFPC’s AI agent can tell you whether you are eligible — ask it “Can I retrain into Executive Mission Aviator?” Open the AFPC retraining agent (CAC required, opens in a new tab).
What You'll Gain
- Flight pay and special duty incentives
- Advanced aircrew training and qualifications
- Unique operational experience supporting national leadership
- Professional development in a premier operational unit