PICRYL
PICRYLThe World's Largest Public Domain Source

Flight deck

The flight deck of an aircraft carrier is the surface from which its aircraft take off and land, essentially a miniature airfield at sea. On smaller naval ships which do not have aviation as a primary mission, the landing area for helicopters and other VTOL aircraft is also referred to as the flight deck. The official U.S. Navy term for these vessels is "air-capable ships".

Flight decks have been in use upon ships since 1910, the American pilot Eugene Ely being the first individual to takeoff from a warship. Initially consisting of wooden ramps built over the forecastle of capital ships, a number of battlecruisers, including the British HMS Furious and Courageous class, the American USS Lexington and Saratoga, and the Japanese Akagi and battleship Kaga, were converted to aircraft carriers during the interwar period. The first aircraft carrier to feature a full-length flight deck, akin to the configuration of the modern vessels, was the converted liner HMS Argus. The armoured flight deck was another innovation pioneered by the Royal Navy during the 1930s. Early landing arrangements relied on the low speed and landing speed of the era's aircraft, being simply "caught" by a team of deck-hands in a fairly hazardous arrangement, but these became impractical as heavier aircraft with higher landing speeds emerged; thus an arrangement of arrestor cables and tailhooks soon became the favoured approach.

During the Cold War era, numerous innovations were introduced to the flight deck. The angled flight deck, invented by Dennis Cambell of the Royal Navy, was one prominent design feature that drastically simplified aircraft recovery and deck movements, enabling landing and launching operations to be performed simultaneously rather than interchangeably; it also better handled the higher landing speeds of jet-powered aircraft. In 1952, HMS Triumph became the first aircraft carrier to trial the angled flight deck. Another advance was the ski-jump, which fitted an angled ramp on the flight deck near the end of the aircraft's takeoff run; the change greatly reduced the distance required and became particularly useful for operating STOVL aircraft. Furthermore, various unsuccessful concepts to replace or compliment the conventional flight deck have emerged over the years, from the flexible flight deck to the submarine aircraft carrier and flying boat fighter aircraft.

Flight deck Media

74,111 media by topic ∙ page 1 of 742
Bob Coolbaugh pilots a replica of a Curtiss-Ely Pusher Biplane on the flight deck of the aircraft carrier USS George H.W. Bush (CVN 77).

Bob Coolbaugh pilots a replica of a Curtiss-Ely Pusher Biplane on the ...

NORFOLK (Nov. 15, 2010) Retired Navy Cmdr. Bob Coolbaugh pilots a replica of a Curtiss-Ely Pusher Biplane on the flight deck of the aircraft carrier USS George H.W. Bush (CVN 77). The original aircraft was flow... more

A replica of a Curtiss-Ely Pusher is on the flight deck of the aircraft carrier USS George H.W. Bush (CVN 77).

A replica of a Curtiss-Ely Pusher is on the flight deck of the aircraf...

NORFOLK (Nov. 15, 2010) A replica of a Curtiss-Ely Pusher is on the flight deck of the aircraft carrier USS George H.W. Bush (CVN 77). The original aircraft was flown off the deck of the light cruiser USS Birmi... more

A shooter signals to retired Cmdr. Bob Coolbauth, the pilot of a replica of a Curtiss-Ely Pusher

A shooter signals to retired Cmdr. Bob Coolbauth, the pilot of a repl...

NORFOLK (Nov. 15, 2010) A shooter signals to retired Cmdr. Bob Coolbauth, the pilot of a replica of a Curtiss-Ely Pusher, on the flight deck of the aircraft carrier USS George H.W. Bush (CVN 77). The Curtiss-El... more

S08-37-1912 - STS-008 - View of PFTA being lifted from Challenger's payload bay

S08-37-1912 - STS-008 - View of PFTA being lifted from Challenger's pa...

The original finding aid described this as: Description: Views of the Remote Manipulator System (RMS) arm reaching into the Challenger's payload bay to lift the payload flight test article (PFTA) for dynamic i... more

The Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75) transits the Atlantic Ocean as aircraft from Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 1 prepare to land on the flight deck.

The Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75) transit...

ATLANTIC OCEAN (Sep. 11, 2018) The Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75) transits the Atlantic Ocean as aircraft from Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 1 prepare to land on the flight deck. Harry S. T... more

Airplane landing on flight deck of aircraft carrier with American flag in foreground

Airplane landing on flight deck of aircraft carrier with American flag...

Airplane landing on flight deck of aircraft carrier with American flag in foreground

Airplane landing on flight deck of aircraft carrier with American flag...

Title devised by cataloger. Transfer; United States. Office of War Information. Overseas Picture Division. Washington Division; 1944. More information about the FSA/OWI Collection is available at http://hdl.loc... more

Installing oxygen flask racks above the flight deck of a C-87 transport at the Consolidated Aircraft Corporation plant, Fort Worth, Texas

Installing oxygen flask racks above the flight deck of a C-87 transpor...

Installing oxygen flask racks above the flight deck of a C-87 transport at the Consolidated Aircraft Corporation plant, Fort Worth, Texas

Installing oxygen flask racks above the flight deck of a C-87 transpor...

12002-19. Transfer from U.S. Office of War Information, 1944. General information about the FSA/OWI Color Photographs is available at http://hdl.loc.gov/loc.pnp/pp.fsac Title from FSA or OWI agency caption. Add... more

Production of B-24 bombers and C-87 transports, Consolidated Aircraft Corp., Fort Worth, Texas. Cabbie Coleman, former housewife, works at western aircraft plant. Installing of oxygen racks above the flight deck

Production of B-24 bombers and C-87 transports, Consolidated Aircraft ...

12002-19. Transfer from U.S. Office of War Information, 1944. General information about the FSA/OWI Color Photographs is available at http://hdl.loc.gov/loc.pnp/pp.fsac Title from FSA or OWI agency caption. Add... more

Sailors load an MK 82/BLU 111 500-pound bomb onto an F/A-18E Super Hornet.

Sailors load an MK 82/BLU 111 500-pound bomb onto an F/A-18E Super Hor...

PHILIPPINE SEA (Oct. 05, 2016) Sailors load an MK 82/BLU 111 500-pound bomb onto an F/A-18E Super Hornet assigned to the "Eagles" of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 115 on the flight deck of the Navy's only forwa... more

Production. B-24 bombers and C-87 transports. Cabbie Coleman, former housewife, works in a Western aircraft plant installing oxygen flask racks above the flight deck of a consolidated transport. This ship, adapted from the B-24 bomber, is known as the C-87, and carries one of the greatest human or cargo loads of any plane now in mass production.

Production. B-24 bombers and C-87 transports. Cabbie Coleman, former h...

[Douglas SBD "Dauntless" dive bomber balanced on nose after crash landing on carrier flight deck, June 21, 1943]

[Douglas SBD "Dauntless" dive bomber balanced on nose after crash land...

Title from caption card and item. AM-CR-11-55053. Official U.S. Navy photo. This record contains unverified data from old caption card, with subsequent revisions. See printout for notes written by EBP. Unsure of source.

I1354

I1354

I1354

Two North American B-25's churn the water with hits and near misses on a Japanese frigate in the March 29, 1945 attack which cost the Japs nine ships, South China Sea

Two North American B-25's churn the water with hits and near misses on...

Photograph by U.S. Army A.A.F. No. 58062 AC. Title transcribed from item. Ira Clarence Eaker Collection.

Upload Photo

Upload Photo

PEARL HARBOR (Apr. 14, 2011) Sailors from the ceremonial guard assigned to the guided-missile destroyer USS Chung-Hoon (DDG 93) perform a 21-gun salute during a remembrance ceremony for the Fletcher-class USS S... more

Sinking of the USS Saratoga after the Baker Day Explosion over Bikini Lagoon

Sinking of the USS Saratoga after the Baker Day Explosion over Bikini ...

Original caption: Deep Six for the Sara -- Gamely flashing the Big Three on her flight deck until the last, the gallant old aircraft carrier Saratoga is shown here just before she slid beneath the radio active ... more

ASTRONAUT JAMES A. MCDIVITT - MISC. - GEMINI-TITAN (GT)-4 WELCOME - ATLANTIC

ASTRONAUT JAMES A. MCDIVITT - MISC. - GEMINI-TITAN (GT)-4 WELCOME - AT...

S65-19530 (7 June 1965) --- The red carpet treatment is given to the Gemini-Titan 4 astronauts Edward H. White II and James A. McDivitt as they arrive on the flight deck of the aircraft carrier USS Wasp after t... more

Apollo 8 astronauts and commanding officer of the recovery ship U.S.S. Yorktown

Apollo 8 astronauts and commanding officer of the recovery ship U.S.S....

Apollo 8 astronauts and commanding officer of the recovery ship U.S.S. Yorktown walk the red carpet of the flight deck after splashdown recovery in the Pacific Ocean. Apollo 8 served as the first manned lunar o... more

A right side view of a C-1 Trader aircraft on the flight deck of the attack aircraft carrier USS AMERICA (CVA-66)

A right side view of a C-1 Trader aircraft on the flight deck of the a...

The original finding aid described this photograph as: Country: Unknown Scene Camera Operator: PH3 Kirchoff Release Status: Released to Public Combined Military Service Digital Photographic Files

Flight deck crewmen attach an A-3D Skywarrior aircraft to a catapult during flight operations aboard the attack aircraft carrier USS AMERICA (CVA 66)

Flight deck crewmen attach an A-3D Skywarrior aircraft to a catapult d...

The original finding aid described this photograph as: Base: USS America (CV 66) Scene Camera Operator: PH3 J.H. Kirchoff Release Status: Released to Public Combined Military Service Digital Photographic Files

Flight deck crewmen inspect an A-3D Skywarrior aircraft during flight operations aboard the attack aircraft carrier USS AMERICA (CVA-66)

Flight deck crewmen inspect an A-3D Skywarrior aircraft during flight ...

The original finding aid described this photograph as: Country: Unknown Scene Camera Operator: PH3 J.H. Kirchoff Release Status: Released to Public Combined Military Service Digital Photographic Files

A Chilean navy SH-32 Condor lands on the flight deck of USS John C. Stennis' (CVN 74) during the Rim of the Pacific 2016.

A Chilean navy SH-32 Condor lands on the flight deck of USS John C. St...

PACIFIC OCEAN (Jul. 18, 2016) A Chilean navy SH-32 Condor lands on the flight deck of USS John C. Stennis' (CVN 74) during the Rim of the Pacific 2016. Twenty-six nations, more than 40 ships and submarines, mor... more

A group of Sailors from the flight deck crew aboard the aircraft carrier USS Nimitz (CVN 68) push back an F/A-18C Hornet.

A group of Sailors from the flight deck crew aboard the aircraft carri...

PACIFIC OCEAN (Jul. 13, 2012) A group of Sailors from the flight deck crew aboard the aircraft carrier USS Nimitz (CVN 68) push back an F/A-18C Hornet assigned to the Blue Diamonds of Strike Fighter Squadron (V... more

A CH-53E Super Stallion takes off the flight deck of the Royal Australian Navy landing helicopter dock ship HMAS Adelaide (L01) during an amphibious demonstration as part of the Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) exercise, July 29.

A CH-53E Super Stallion takes off the flight deck of the Royal Austral...

MARINE CORPS BASE HAWAII (Jul. 29, 2018) A CH-53E Super Stallion takes off the flight deck of the Royal Australian Navy landing helicopter dock ship HMAS Adelaide (L01) during an amphibious demonstration as par... more

Sailors aboard the guided-missile cruiser USS Lake Champlain (CG 57) prepare for deliveries on the flight deck during a vertical replenishment.

Sailors aboard the guided-missile cruiser USS Lake Champlain (CG 57) p...

PACIFIC OCEAN (Jul. 20, 2018) Sailors aboard the guided-missile cruiser USS Lake Champlain (CG 57) prepare for deliveries on the flight deck during a vertical replenishment from the auxiliary dry cargo and ammu... more

Sailors attach a cargo sling to a Royal Australian Navy helicopter.

Sailors attach a cargo sling to a Royal Australian Navy helicopter.

PACIFIC OCEAN (Jul. 21, 2012) Sailors attach a cargo sling to a Royal Australian Navy S-70B Sea Hawk helicopter on the flight deck of the guided-missile cruiser USS Chosin (CG 65) while conducting a vertical re... more

Vice President Joe Biden disembarks an MV-22 Osprey assigned to the Greyhawks of Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 161 on USS John C. Stennis' (CVN 74) flight deck during the Rim of the Pacific maritime exercise.

Vice President Joe Biden disembarks an MV-22 Osprey assigned to the Gr...

PACIFIC OCEAN (Jul. 14, 2016) Vice President Joe Biden disembarks an MV-22 Osprey assigned to the Greyhawks of Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 161 on USS John C. Stennis' (CVN 74) flight deck during the ... more

An MV-22 Osprey, assigned to Marine Medium Tiltrotor

An MV-22 Osprey, assigned to Marine Medium Tiltrotor

An MV-22 Osprey, assigned to Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 161, launches from the flight deck of the amphibious assault ship USS Peleliu (LHA 5) while underway during Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) Exerci... more

Aviation Ordnanceman Airman Jasmine Yelverton from Goldsboro, North Carolina, places a safety cone over ordnance attached to an F/A-18F Super Hornet assigned to the Black Aces of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 41.

Aviation Ordnanceman Airman Jasmine Yelverton from Goldsboro, North Ca...

PACIFIC OCEAN (Jul. 29, 2016) Aviation Ordnanceman Airman Jasmine Yelverton from Goldsboro, North Carolina, places a safety cone over ordnance attached to an F/A-18F Super Hornet assigned to the Black Aces of S... more

An MH-53E Sea Dragon helicopter assigned to the

An MH-53E Sea Dragon helicopter assigned to the

PACIFIC OCEAN (Jul. 12, 2018) An MH-53E Sea Dragon helicopter assigned to the "Vanguards" of Helicopter Mine Countermeasures Squadron (HM) 14 takes off from the flight deck of the amphibious dock landing ship U... more

Sailors assigned to the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Shoup (DDG 86) participate in a live-fire gun exercise on the flight deck during Rim of the Pacific 2016.

Sailors assigned to the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer U...

PACIFIC OCEAN (Aug. 02, 2016) Sailors assigned to the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Shoup (DDG 86) participate in a live-fire gun exercise on the flight deck during Rim of the Pacific 2016. T... more

F/A-18E Super Hornets assigned to the Vigilantes of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 151 and the Black Aces of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 41 launch from USS John C. Stennis' (CVN 74) flight deck during Rim of the Pacific 2016.

F/A-18E Super Hornets assigned to the Vigilantes of Strike Fighter Squ...

PACIFIC OCEAN (Jul. 18, 2016) F/A-18E Super Hornets assigned to the Vigilantes of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 151 and the Black Aces of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 41 launch from USS John C. Stennis' (CVN 7... more

Sailors assigned to the amphibious dock landing ship USS Rushmore (LSD 47) direct an MV-22 Osprey.

Sailors assigned to the amphibious dock landing ship USS Rushmore (LSD...

PACIFIC OCEAN (Jul. 08, 2014) Sailors assigned to the amphibious dock landing ship USS Rushmore (LSD 47) direct an MV-22 Osprey assigned to Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 161 onto the flight deck for a ... more

Damage Controlman 3rd Class Erik Michel, assigned to the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Shoup (DDG 86), walks to a safe area on the flight deck after securing from refueling an MH-60R Sea Hawk helicopter.

Damage Controlman 3rd Class Erik Michel, assigned to the Arleigh Burke...

PACIFIC OCEAN (Jun. 29, 2016) Damage Controlman 3rd Class Erik Michel, assigned to the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Shoup (DDG 86), walks to a safe area on the flight deck after securing fro... more

Sailors from the crash and salvage team hone their skills in a firefighting exercise on the flight deck of the guided-missile cruiser USS Lake Champlain (CG 57) during the 2018 Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) exercise, July 21, 2018.

Sailors from the crash and salvage team hone their skills in a firefig...

PACIFIC OCEAN (Jul. 21, 2018) Sailors from the crash and salvage team hone their skills in a firefighting exercise on the flight deck of the guided-missile cruiser USS Lake Champlain (CG 57) during the 2018 Rim... more

An F/A-18F Super Hornet assigned to the

An F/A-18F Super Hornet assigned to the

PACIFIC OCEAN (Jul. 21, 2018) An F/A-18F Super Hornet assigned to the "Bounty Hunters" of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 2 makes an arrested landing on the flight deck of the aircraft carrier USS Carl Vinson (CV... more

An F/A-18F Super Hornet assigned to the Black Aces of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 41 launches from USS John C. Stennis' (CVN 74) flight deck during Rim of the Pacific 2016.

An F/A-18F Super Hornet assigned to the Black Aces of Strike Fighter S...

PACIFIC OCEAN (Jul. 29, 2016) An F/A-18F Super Hornet assigned to the Black Aces of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 41 launches from USS John C. Stennis' (CVN 74) flight deck during Rim of the Pacific 2016. Twent... more

Sailors direct an MH-60S helicopter aboard the amphibious dock landing ship USS Harpers Ferry (LSD 49).

Sailors direct an MH-60S helicopter aboard the amphibious dock landing...

PACIFIC OCEAN (Jul. 09, 2018) Boatswain's Mates 3rd Class Benjamin Simpson, left, from Ocala, Fla., and Daniel Aguirre, from Abernathy, Texas, both assigned to the amphibious dock landing ship USS Harpers Ferry... more

Sailors celebrate after hooking cargo to an MH-60S Sea Hawk assigned to the Chargers of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 14 on USS John C. Stennis' (CVN 74) flight deck during a replenishment-at-sea.

Sailors celebrate after hooking cargo to an MH-60S Sea Hawk assigned t...

PACIFIC OCEAN (Jul. 18, 2016) Sailors celebrate after hooking cargo to an MH-60S Sea Hawk assigned to the Chargers of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 14 on USS John C. Stennis' (CVN 74) flight deck during ... more

An F/A-18E Super Hornet assigned to the Tophatters of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 14 launches from USS John C. Stennis' (CVN 74) flight deck during Rim of the Pacific 2016.

An F/A-18E Super Hornet assigned to the Tophatters of Strike Fighter S...

PACIFIC OCEAN (Jul. 29, 2016) An F/A-18E Super Hornet assigned to the Tophatters of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 14 launches from USS John C. Stennis' (CVN 74) flight deck during Rim of the Pacific 2016. Twent... more

Cmdr. Cameron Havlik speaks to officers assigned to the Mexican Navy tank landing ship ARM Usumacinta (A-412) on the flight deck of amphibious assault ship USS Boxer (LHD 4) during the Southern California portion of RIMPAC

Cmdr. Cameron Havlik speaks to officers assigned to the Mexican Navy t...

SAN DIEGO (Jun. 29, 2018) Cmdr. Cameron Havlik, assigned to Commander, U.S. 3rd Fleet, speaks to officers assigned to the Mexican Navy tank landing ship ARM Usumacinta (A-412) on the flight deck of amphibious a... more

Sailors stand at attention during an all hands call

Sailors stand at attention during an all hands call

Sailors stand at attention during an all hands call on the flight deck of amphibious assault ship USS Peleliu (LHA 5) prior to departing for the sea phase of Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) Exercise 2014. Twenty-tw... more

An F/A-18F Super Hornet assigned to the Bounty Hunters of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 2 launches from the flight deck of the aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76).

An F/A-18F Super Hornet assigned to the Bounty Hunters of Strike Fight...

PACIFIC OCEAN (Jul. 10, 2014) An F/A-18F Super Hornet assigned to the Bounty Hunters of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 2 launches from the flight deck of the aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76). Ronald R... more

A helicopter takes off from the flight deck of USS Essex.

A helicopter takes off from the flight deck of USS Essex.

PACIFIC OCEAN (Jul. 20, 2012) An MH-60S Sea Hawk helicopter assigned to the Wild Cards of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 23 takes off from the flight deck of the amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2) ... more

An F/A-18C Hornet assigned to the Death Rattlers of Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 323 lands on the flight deck of the aircraft carrier USS Nimitz (CVN 68).

An F/A-18C Hornet assigned to the Death Rattlers of Marine Fighter Att...

PACIFIC OCEAN (Jul. 25, 2012) An F/A-18C Hornet assigned to the Death Rattlers of Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 323 lands on the flight deck of the aircraft carrier USS Nimitz (CVN 68). Nimitz is underw... more

Hull Maintenance Technician 2nd Class Joshua Bemowski braces Aviation Boatswain's Mate Airman Joshua Evans as an MV-22 Osprey assigned to Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 165 departs the flight deck.

Hull Maintenance Technician 2nd Class Joshua Bemowski braces Aviation ...

PACIFIC OCEAN (Jun. 25, 2016) Hull Maintenance Technician 2nd Class Joshua Bemowski braces Aviation Boatswain's Mate Airman Joshua Evans as an MV-22 Osprey assigned to Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 165... more

Airman Josh Coleman, from Vero Beach, Florida, washes an E/A-18G Growler assigned to the Wizards of Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) 133 on USS John C. Stennis' (CVN 74) flight deck during the Rim of the Pacific maritime exercise.

Airman Josh Coleman, from Vero Beach, Florida, washes an E/A-18G Growl...

PACIFIC OCEAN (Jul. 17, 2016) Airman Josh Coleman, from Vero Beach, Florida, washes an E/A-18G Growler assigned to the Wizards of Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) 133 on USS John C. Stennis' (CVN 74) flight dec... more

An EA-18G Growler assigned to the Wizards of Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) 133 launches from the flight deck of the aircraft carrier USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74) during Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) 2016.

An EA-18G Growler assigned to the Wizards of Electronic Attack Squadro...

PACIFIC OCEAN (Jul. 26, 2016) An EA-18G Growler assigned to the Wizards of Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) 133 launches from the flight deck of the aircraft carrier USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74) during Rim of t... more

Aviation Ordnanceman 3rd Class Danyiel White, from Neward, N.J., prepares to move ordnance across the flight deck of the aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76).

Aviation Ordnanceman 3rd Class Danyiel White, from Neward, N.J., prepa...

PACIFIC OCEAN (Jul. 08, 2014) Aviation Ordnanceman 3rd Class Danyiel White, from Neward, N.J., prepares to move ordnance across the flight deck of the aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76). Ronald Reagan ... more

An F/A-18E Super Hornet assigned to the Warhawks of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 97 lands on USS John C. Stennis' (CVN 74) flight deck during Rim of the Pacific 2016.

An F/A-18E Super Hornet assigned to the Warhawks of Strike Fighter Squ...

PACIFIC OCEAN (Jul. 18, 2016) An F/A-18E Super Hornet assigned to the Warhawks of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 97 lands on USS John C. Stennis' (CVN 74) flight deck during Rim of the Pacific 2016. Twenty-six ... more

Boatswain's Mate Seaman Caitlyn Radke, right, signals to the pilots of an MH-60R Sea Hawk, assigned to the

Boatswain's Mate Seaman Caitlyn Radke, right, signals to the pilots o...

PACIFIC OCEAN (Jul. 12, 2016) Boatswain's Mate Seaman Caitlyn Radke, right, signals to the pilots of an MH-60R Sea Hawk, assigned to the "Battle Cats" of Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) 73, as Sailors... more

Sailors assigned to the amphibious transport dock ship USS San Diego (LPD 22) stand by as an MH-60R Sea Hawk assigned to the

Sailors assigned to the amphibious transport dock ship USS San Diego (...

PACIFIC OCEAN (Jun. 22, 2016) Sailors assigned to the amphibious transport dock ship USS San Diego (LPD 22) stand by as an MH-60R Sea Hawk assigned to the "Magicians" of Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM... more

Guests ride an aircraft elevator to the flight deck during an open ship tour day aboard the aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76).

Guests ride an aircraft elevator to the flight deck during an open shi...

PEARL HARBOR (Jul. 05, 2014) Guests ride an aircraft elevator to the flight deck during an open ship tour day aboard the aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76). Ronald Reagan is in Hawaii for Rim of the Pa... more

Capt. Kavon Hakimzadeh, USS John C. Stennis' (CVN) 74 executive officer, greets Adm. Enrique Larranaga, commander in chief, Chilean navy, after he disembarks a Chilean navy SH-32 Condor on the flight deck during Rim of the Pacific 2016.

Capt. Kavon Hakimzadeh, USS John C. Stennis' (CVN) 74 executive office...

PACIFIC OCEAN (Jul. 19, 2016) Capt. Kavon Hakimzadeh, USS John C. Stennis' (CVN) 74 executive officer, greets Adm. Enrique Larranaga, commander in chief, Chilean navy, after he disembarks a Chilean navy SH-32 C... more

Sailors debrief after the launching of their aircraft.

Sailors debrief after the launching of their aircraft.

PACIFIC OCEAN (Jul. 24, 2012) Aviation Electronics Technician Airman Patrick Castillo, from Sacramento, Calif., left, Aviation Structural Mechanic 3rd Class Jeremy Villa, from Huntsville, Ala., and Chief Aviati... more

An F/A-18F Super Hornet assigned to the

An F/A-18F Super Hornet assigned to the

PACIFIC OCEAN (Jul. 21, 2018) An F/A-18F Super Hornet assigned to the "Bounty Hunters" of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 2 makes an arrested landing on the flight deck of the aircraft carrier USS Carl Vinson (CV... more

Aviation Boatswain's Mate (Handling) Airman Franklin Shepard checks the area before directing a CH-124 Sea King helicopter assigned to Royal Canadian Air Force Squadron 443 to depart.

Aviation Boatswain's Mate (Handling) Airman Franklin Shepard checks th...

PACIFIC OCEAN (Jun. 23, 2016) Aviation Boatswain's Mate (Handling) Airman Franklin Shepard checks the area before directing a CH-124 Sea King helicopter assigned to Royal Canadian Air Force Squadron 443 to depa... more

Sailors perform routine inspections on an E-2C Hawkeye assigned to the Golden Hawks of Airborne Early Warning Squadron (VAW) 112 on USS John C. Stennis' (CVN 74) flight deck during Rim of the Pacific 2016.

Sailors perform routine inspections on an E-2C Hawkeye assigned to the...

PACIFIC OCEAN (Jul. 16, 2016) Sailors perform routine inspections on an E-2C Hawkeye assigned to the Golden Hawks of Airborne Early Warning Squadron (VAW) 112 on USS John C. Stennis' (CVN 74) flight deck during... more

An MV-22 Osprey, assigned to the

An MV-22 Osprey, assigned to the

PACIFIC OCEAN (Jul. 30, 2016) An MV-22 Osprey, assigned to the "White Knights" of Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 165, prepares for take-off from the flight deck of the amphibious assault ship USS Americ... more

An aviation boatswain's mate directs an F/A-18C Hornet assigned to the Death Rattlers of Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 323 as a group of Sailors and Marines push back the aircraft.

An aviation boatswain's mate directs an F/A-18C Hornet assigned to the...

PACIFIC OCEAN (Jul. 13, 2012) An aviation boatswain's mate directs an F/A-18C Hornet assigned to the Death Rattlers of Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 323 as a group of Sailors and Marines push back the a... more

Sailors assigned to the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Shoup (DDG 86) stand by on the flight deck during flight operations, during Rim of the Pacific 2016

Sailors assigned to the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer ...

PACIFIC OCEAN (Jun. 26, 2016) Sailors assigned to the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Shoup (DDG 86) stand by on the flight deck during flight operations, during Rim of the Pacific 2016. Twenty... more

Aviation Ordnanceman 2nd Class Lavar Pryor, assigned to the

Aviation Ordnanceman 2nd Class Lavar Pryor, assigned to the

PACIFIC OCEAN (Jun. 30, 2016) Aviation Ordnanceman 2nd Class Lavar Pryor, assigned to the "Magicians" of Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) 35, checks the sonobouy compartments on an MH-60R Sea Hawk heli... more

U.S. Marine helicopters sit on the flight deck during flight operations aboard USS Essex.

U.S. Marine helicopters sit on the flight deck during flight operation...

PACIFIC OCEAN (Jul. 12, 2012) U.S. Marine helicopters sit on the flight deck during flight operations aboard the amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2) during Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) 2012. Twenty-two nat... more

A helicopter lowers a crew member onto the flight deck.

A helicopter lowers a crew member onto the flight deck.

PACIFIC OCEAN (Jul. 21, 2012) A Royal Canadian Navy CH-124A Sea King helicopter lowers a crewmember onto the flight deck of the Military Sealift Command fleet replenishment oiler USNS Yukon (T-AO 202) while con... more

Aviation Boatswain's Mate (Handling) Airman Joshua Evans directs a CH-124 Sea King helicopter assigned to Royal Canadian Air Force Squadron 443 to depart the flight deck of amphibious transport dock ship USS San Diego (LPD 22).

Aviation Boatswain's Mate (Handling) Airman Joshua Evans directs a CH-...

PACIFIC OCEAN (Jun. 23, 2016) Aviation Boatswain's Mate (Handling) Airman Joshua Evans directs a CH-124 Sea King helicopter assigned to Royal Canadian Air Force Squadron 443 to depart the flight deck of amphibi... more

Aviation Electronics Technician 2nd Class Trey Perry, of Windsor, California, assigned to Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) 35,

Aviation Electronics Technician 2nd Class Trey Perry, of Windsor, Cali...

PACIFIC OCEAN (Jul. 13, 2016) Aviation Electronics Technician 2nd Class Trey Perry, of Windsor, California, assigned to Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) 35, "The Magicians", washes the tail rotor of an... more

Plane captains walk the flight deck during pre-flight operations aboard the aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76).

Plane captains walk the flight deck during pre-flight operations aboar...

PACIFIC OCEAN (Jul. 29, 2014) Plane captains walk the flight deck during pre-flight operations aboard the aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76). Ronald Reagan is participating in Rim of the Pacific (RIMPA... more

Marines board two CH-53 Sea Stallion helicopters on the flight deck of the amphibious assault ship USS America (LHA 6).

Marines board two CH-53 Sea Stallion helicopters on the flight deck of...

PACIFIC OCEAN (Jul. 13, 2016) Marines board two CH-53 Sea Stallion helicopters on the flight deck of the amphibious assault ship USS America (LHA 6). America is underway conducting maritime exercises with partn... more

The SECNAV visits with Sailors on the flight deck.

The SECNAV visits with Sailors on the flight deck.

PACIFIC OCEAN (Jul. 18, 2012) Secretary of the Navy (SECNAV) the Honorable Ray Mabus visits with Sailors on the flight deck of the aircraft carrier USS Nimitz (CVN 68) during the Great Green Fleet demonstration... more

A Sailor walks across the flight deck as Capt. Chris Bolt, commanding officer of the aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76) lands an E-2C Hawkeye.

A Sailor walks across the flight deck as Capt. Chris Bolt, commanding ...

PACIFIC OCEAN (Jul. 29, 2014) A Sailor walks across the flight deck as Capt. Chris Bolt, commanding officer of the aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76) lands an E-2C Hawkeye assigned to the Black Eagles ... more

An F/A-18E Super Hornet assigned to the Warhawks of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 97 performs a touch-and-go maneuver on USS John C. Stennis' (CVN 74) flight deck during Rim of the Pacific.

An F/A-18E Super Hornet assigned to the Warhawks of Strike Fighter Squ...

PACIFIC OCEAN (Jul. 13, 2016) An F/A-18E Super Hornet assigned to the Warhawks of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 97 performs a touch-and-go maneuver on USS John C. Stennis' (CVN 74) flight deck during Rim of the... more

Flight deck crew members directs U.S. Marine Corps MV-22 Osprey aircraft from Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 161 on the flight deck aboard the amphibious assault ship USS Peleliu (LHA 5).

Flight deck crew members directs U.S. Marine Corps MV-22 Osprey aircra...

PACIFIC OCEAN (Jul. 14, 2014) Flight deck crew members directs U.S. Marine Corps MV-22 Osprey aircraft from Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 161 on the flight deck aboard the amphibious assault ship USS P... more

Vice President Joe Biden exits an MV-22 Osprey assigned to the Greyhawks of Marine Medium Tiltroter Squadron (VMM) 161 on USS John C. Stennis' (CVN 74) flight deck during the Rim of the Pacific maritime exercise.

Vice President Joe Biden exits an MV-22 Osprey assigned to the Greyhaw...

PACIFIC OCEAN (Jul. 14, 2016) Vice President Joe Biden exits an MV-22 Osprey assigned to the Greyhawks of Marine Medium Tiltroter Squadron (VMM) 161 on USS John C. Stennis' (CVN 74) flight deck during the Rim o... more

An MH-60R Sea Hawk helicopter departs the flight deck as the guided-missile destroyer USS Dewey (DDG 105) transits the Pacific Ocean while underway during Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) exercise, July 28, 2018.

An MH-60R Sea Hawk helicopter departs the flight deck as the guided-mi...

PACIFIC OCEAN (Jul. 28, 2018) An MH-60R Sea Hawk helicopter assigned to the "Magicians" of Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) 35 departs the flight deck as the guided-missile destroyer USS Dewey (DDG 105... more

An AH-1Z Cobra and a UH-1Y Huey helicopters conduct deck landing qualifications on the flight deck of the Royal Australian Navy landing helicopter dock ship HMAS Adelaide (L01).

An AH-1Z Cobra and a UH-1Y Huey helicopters conduct deck landing quali...

PACIFIC OCEAN (Jul. 23, 2018) An AH-1Z Cobra and a UH-1Y Huey helicopters, both assigned to the "Scarface" of Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron (HMLA) 367, conduct deck landing qualifications on the fligh... more

Marines assigned to 3rd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, board a CH-53E Super Sea Stallion helicopter assigned to Heavy Marine Helicopter Squadron 463 (HMH-463).

Marines assigned to 3rd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, board a CH-53E...

PACIFIC OCEAN (Jul. 26, 2014) Marines assigned to 3rd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, board a CH-53E Super Sea Stallion helicopter assigned to Heavy Marine Helicopter Squadron 463 (HMH-463) on the flight deck o... more

An MH-60R Sea Hawk helicopter assigned to the

An MH-60R Sea Hawk helicopter assigned to the

PACIFIC OCEAN (Jul. 18, 2018) An MH-60R Sea Hawk helicopter assigned to the "Magicians" of Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) 35, takes off from the flight deck of the guided-missile destroyer USS Dewey ... more

Sailors performs maintenance on an MH-60R Sea Hawk helicopter on the flight deck of the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Howard (DDG 83).

Sailors performs maintenance on an MH-60R Sea Hawk helicopter on the f...

PACIFIC OCEAN (Jul. 12, 2016) Aviation Machinist's Mate 3rd Class Ashley Arns, left, and Aviation Machinist's Mate 1st Class Carlos Rodriguez, both assigned to the "Battle Cats" of Helicopter Maritime Strike S... more

Sailors assigned to the air department of the guided-missile cruiser USS Lake Champlain (CG 57) conduct flight operations on the flight deck in the Pacific Ocean during Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) exercise.

Sailors assigned to the air department of the guided-missile cruiser U...

PACIFIC OCEAN (Jul. 16, 2018) Sailors assigned to the air department of the guided-missile cruiser USS Lake Champlain (CG 57) conduct flight operations on the flight deck in the Pacific Ocean during Rim of the ... more

gather for a group photo on the flight deck of the landing helicopter dock ship HMAS Adelaide (L01) during Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) exercise, July 25, 2018

gather for a group photo on the flight deck of the landing helicopter ...

PACIFIC OCEAN (Jul. 25, 2018) Military members from the Royal Australian Navy, Australian army, U.S. Marines, Sri Lanka navy marines, Royal Malaysian Army, His Majesty's Armed Forces of Brunei, Japan Ground Sel... more

Lt. Cmdr. Alesha Gorton of the Royal Australian Navy takes a photo of U.S. Marine Corps and Australian military members as they pose holding Australia's national sporting flag.

Lt. Cmdr. Alesha Gorton of the Royal Australian Navy takes a photo of ...

PACIFIC OCEAN (Jul. 25, 2014) Lt. Cmdr. Alesha Gorton of the Royal Australian Navy takes a photo of U.S. Marine Corps and Australian military members as they pose holding Australia's national sporting flag on ... more

Rear Adm. Marcus A. Hitchcock, commander, John C. Stennis Strike Group, shakes hands with Rear Adm. Craig Faller, Navy Chief of Legislative Affairs, as he passes through rainbow sideboys on USS John C. Stennis' (CVN 74) flight deck.

Rear Adm. Marcus A. Hitchcock, commander, John C. Stennis Strike Group...

PACIFIC OCEAN (Jul. 16, 2016) Rear Adm. Marcus A. Hitchcock, commander, John C. Stennis Strike Group, shakes hands with Rear Adm. Craig Faller, Navy Chief of Legislative Affairs, as he passes through rainbow si... more

Sailors assigned to the

Sailors assigned to the

PACIFIC OCEAN (Jun. 30, 2016) Sailors assigned to the "Magicians" of Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) 35 fold the tail of an MH-60R Sea Hawk helicopter on the flight deck of the Arleigh Burke-class gui... more

Capt. Paul C. Spedero, commanding officer of the amphibious assault ship USS Peleliu (LHA 5), addresses Sailors and Marines during an all-hands call on the flight deck prior to departing for the sea phase of Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) 2014.

Capt. Paul C. Spedero, commanding officer of the amphibious assault sh...

PEARL HARBOR (Jul. 08, 2014) Capt. Paul C. Spedero, commanding officer of the amphibious assault ship USS Peleliu (LHA 5), addresses Sailors and Marines during an all-hands call on the flight deck prior to depa... more

An F/A-18E Super Hornet assigned to the Black Aces of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 41 and an F/A-18F Super Hornet assigned to the Warhawks of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 97 launch from USS John C. Stennis' (CVN 74) flight deck.

An F/A-18E Super Hornet assigned to the Black Aces of Strike Fighter S...

PACIFIC OCEAN (Jul. 18, 2016) An F/A-18E Super Hornet assigned to the Black Aces of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 41 and an F/A-18F Super Hornet assigned to the Warhawks of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 97 laun... more

Sailors assigned to the

Sailors assigned to the

PACIFIC OCEAN (Jun. 26, 2016) Sailors assigned to the "Magicians" of Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) 35 and the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Shoup (DDG 86) walk the flight deck loo... more

A New Zealand Defence Force officer is winched down from a helicopter.

A New Zealand Defence Force officer is winched down from a helicopter.

PACIFIC OCEAN (Jul. 19, 2012) New Zealand Defence Force Maj. John Gordon is winched down from an MH-60S Sea Hawk helicopter assigned to Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 4 onto the flight deck of the Royal N... more

U.S. Marines assigned to combat cargo on board the amphibious assault ship USS America (LHA 6) prepare to offload an armored personnel transport vehicle via a CH-53E Super Stallion cargo helicopter.

U.S. Marines assigned to combat cargo on board the amphibious assault ...

PACIFIC OCEAN (Jul. 30, 2016) U.S. Marines assigned to combat cargo on board the amphibious assault ship USS America (LHA 6) prepare to offload an armored personnel transport vehicle via a CH-53E Super Stallion... more

Attack Squadron 55 (VA-55) A-4F Skyhawk aircraft of Attack Carrier Wing 21 are parked on the flight deck of the attack aircraft carrier USS HANCOCK (CVA 19)

Attack Squadron 55 (VA-55) A-4F Skyhawk aircraft of Attack Carrier Win...

The original finding aid described this photograph as: Base: USS Hancock (CVA 19) Scene Camera Operator: PH3 Adrian Release Status: Released to Public Combined Military Service Digital Photographic Files

Right side view of an SH-2F Seasprite Mark 1 Light Airborne Multi-Purpose System (LAMPS) helicopter, hovering above the flight deck. The helicopter is from the Light Helicopter Anti-submarine Squadron 32 (HSL-32)

Right side view of an SH-2F Seasprite Mark 1 Light Airborne Multi-Purp...

The original finding aid described this photograph as: Country: Unknown Scene Camera Operator: Unknown Release Status: Released to Public Combined Military Service Digital Photographic Files

A Fighter Squadron 14 (VF-14) F-14 Tomcat aircraft clears the flight deck after a wave-off during flight operations aboard the aircraft carrier USS JOHN F. KENNEDY (CV 67)

A Fighter Squadron 14 (VF-14) F-14 Tomcat aircraft clears the flight d...

The original finding aid described this photograph as: Base: USS John F. Kennedy (CV 67) Scene Camera Operator: An Ackerman Release Status: Released to Public Combined Military Service Digital Photographic Files

Crewmen service an F-14 Tomcat aircraft on the flight deck of the aircraft carrier USS AMERICA (CV 66)

Crewmen service an F-14 Tomcat aircraft on the flight deck of the airc...

The original finding aid described this photograph as: Country: Unknown Scene Camera Operator: Unknown Release Status: Released to Public Combined Military Service Digital Photographic Files

An elevated starboard view of the island and flight deck of the Soviet aircraft carrier KIEV (CVHG) while the ship is underway

An elevated starboard view of the island and flight deck of the Soviet...

The original finding aid described this photograph as: Country: Mediterranean Sea (MED) Scene Camera Operator: PH2 James Bishop Release Status: Released to Public Combined Military Service Digital Photographic Files

A port quarter view of the flight deck and island of the Soviet aircraft carrier KIEV (CVHG). Ship's boats are stored in hull recesses under the flight deck

A port quarter view of the flight deck and island of the Soviet aircra...

The original finding aid described this photograph as: Country: Mediterranean Sea (MED) Scene Camera Operator: PH2 James Bishop Release Status: Released to Public Combined Military Service Digital Photographic Files

A view of SS-N-12 Shaddock missile launch tubes and an SA-N-3 missile launcher mounted on the bow of the Soviet aircraft carrier KIEV (CVHG). Two 30mm close-in weapons systems guns are mounted on the forward part of the island and two more are mounted at the forward edge of the flight deck. A Bass Tilt fire control radar is mounted next to the deck edge guns

A view of SS-N-12 Shaddock missile launch tubes and an SA-N-3 missile ...

The original finding aid described this photograph as: Country: Mediterranean Sea (MED) Scene Camera Operator: PH2 Bishop Release Status: Released to Public Combined Military Service Digital Photographic Files

First Lady Betty Ford, Princess Grace and Prince Rainier III of Monaco at the Operation Sail Event aboard the USS Forrestal (CV-59)

First Lady Betty Ford, Princess Grace and Prince Rainier III of Monaco...

Caption: 1976, July 4 – USS Forrestal (CV-59) – Flight Deck – New York Harbor, New York City, NY – Betty Ford, Princess Grace (Kelly), Prince Rainier III (Grimaldi); Others – standing, talking – 4th of July Bic... more

Photograph of President Gerald R. Ford Initiating the Ringing of Bicentennial Bells across the Nation on the Flight Deck of the USS Forrestal with American Revolution Bicentennial Administration Administrator John Warner

Photograph of President Gerald R. Ford Initiating the Ringing of Bicen...

This photograph depicts President Gerald R. Ford initiating the ringing of bicentennial bells across the nation while on the flight deck of the USS Forrestal with American Revolution Bicentennial Administration... more

Sea water spray from the flight deck washdown system covers the deck of the aircraft carrier USS AMERICA (CV 66)

Sea water spray from the flight deck washdown system covers the deck o...

The original finding aid described this photograph as: Country: Unknown Scene Camera Operator: Unknown Release Status: Released to Public Combined Military Service Digital Photographic Files

Fog clings to the surface of the sea as the sun attemps to break through the clouds, just off the flight deck of the aircraft carrier USS AMERICA (CV 66)

Fog clings to the surface of the sea as the sun attemps to break throu...

The original finding aid described this photograph as: Country: Unknown Scene Camera Operator: Unknown Release Status: Released to Public Combined Military Service Digital Photographic Files