Which metric does HQDA use to establish aviation training levels?

• A. Total flight hours per aircrew
• B. Mission readiness percentage
• C. Aircraft readiness index
• D. Crew OPTEMPO (hours per crew per month)

Answer: (D)

Crew OPTEMPO, the hours per crew per month, is the metric HQDA uses to establish aviation training levels. This measure directly reflects how much flying exposure a crew gets in a given month, which drives the opportunity to train, maintain currency, and stay proficient. When units track flight time per crew each month, they can schedule training tasks, simulate missions, and ensure crews meet proficiency standards without overloading schedules or compromising rest and safety.

Other metrics don’t map as neatly to training levels. Total flight hours per aircrew is a cumulative figure that doesn’t capture monthly tempo or how flight time is distributed between training, missions, and maintenance. Mission readiness percentage is a broad indicator of overall capability, not specifically how much time crews have to train. The aircraft readiness index focuses on aircraft condition and availability, not the crew’s training exposure.