NDI Team Accelerates B-52 Inspection, Ensures Flight Readiness

  • Published
  • By Mary Kozaitis
  • 412th Test Wing Public Affairs
EDWARDS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. --  

The Edwards Air Force Base Non-Destructive Inspection (NDI) team, within the 412th Maintenance Squadron, recently completed a comprehensive inspection of a B-52 Stratofortress, a remarkable 17 days ahead of schedule, showcasing their expertise and commitment to maintaining the Air Force's vital bomber fleet.

Non-Destructive Inspection is a critical process that utilizes various techniques to evaluate the integrity of aircraft components without causing damage. These techniques include radiography (X-ray), ultrasonic testing, oil analysis and more. NDI is paramount to Air Force operations, ensuring the structural integrity of aircraft, detecting potential flaws, and ultimately safeguarding the lives of aircrew and preserving valuable assets.

“The easiest way to explain NDI is to compare it to a doctor’s office for aircraft,” said Master Sgt. Hector Chacon, 412th Test Wing NDI section chief. “It’s all about avoiding catastrophic failure and that’s why it’s such an important skillset to have at this installation.”

The B-52 X-ray inspection, considered one of the largest and most complex maintenance tasks within the NDI career field, presented a unique challenge for the Edwards team. The sheer size of the aircraft and the intricate nature of its internal structure required meticulous planning, coordination and execution.

"Because we are at a Test Wing, we get to touch all different types of aircraft," said Staff Sgt. Brandon Tate. "It's not every day you get to perform this type of in-depth inspection on a B-52. It was a great opportunity to hone our skills and contribute directly to the aircraft's continued operational readiness."

The project demanded a collaborative effort, involving multiple teams working across different shifts, seven days a week.

“At Edwards, we have such a unique environment because of the civilian factor,” said Chacon. “It is great because they are so embedded in the community, they have deep roots here, they are from here, their families are here. They extend that to the active-duty members who may not have family nearby and they take us in as their own.”


Jannet Diaz, 412th Test Wing Maintenance Group, holds a centrifuge with oil that is part of magnetic particle inspections and explains the procedures the Non-Destructive Inspection team uses to identify potential damage to aircraft at Edwards Air Force Base, California, May 6, 2025. NDI specialists play a role in ensuring the safety of equipment, protecting the lives of aircrew members. (Air Force photo by Daniel Kelley)

Jannet Diaz, 412th Maintenance Squadron, is from Southern California and took classes at Antelope Valley College in Lancaster to earn her degree in Aeronautical Non-Destructive Inspection to become a technician.

“I always wanted to do something hands-on since I was a little girl, and I feel proud every time I see aircraft flying because I know I am part of a team that helps it fly safely,” Diaz said.   

The early completion of the B-52 inspection allows the aircraft to return to service sooner, supporting critical testing and operational missions. This achievement underscores the importance of the NDI team's role in maintaining the Air Force's warfighting capabilities and ensuring the safety and reliability of its aircraft. The 412th Test Wing continues to rely on the expertise and dedication of its NDI team to uphold the highest standards of aircraft maintenance and contribute to the overall success of the Air Force mission.


Jannet Diaz, 412th Test Wing Maintenance Group, demonstrates the procedures the Non-Destructive Inspection team uses to identify potential damage to aircraft at Edwards Air Force Base, California, May 6, 2025. NDI specialists play a role in ensuring the safety of equipment, protecting the lives of aircrew members. (Air Force photo by Daniel Kelley)


Tech Sgt. Elmer Alvarado Evora, 412th Test Wing Maintenance Group, demonstrates the procedures the Non-Destructive Inspection team uses to identify potential damage to aircraft at Edwards Air Force Base, California, May 6, 2025. NDI specialists play a role in ensuring the safety of equipment, protecting the lives of aircrew members. (Air Force photo by Daniel Kelley)


Staff Sgt Brandon Tate, 412th Test Wing Maintenance Group, explains the procedures the Non-Destructive Inspection team uses to identify potential damage to aircraft at Edwards Air Force Base, California, May 6, 2025. NDI specialists play a role in ensuring the safety of equipment, protecting the lives of aircrew members. (Air Force photo by Daniel Kelley)


Jannet Diaz, 412th Test Wing Maintenance Group, demonstrates the procedures the Non-Destructive Inspection team uses to identify damage to aircraft at Edwards Air Force Base, California, May 6, 2025. NDI specialists play a role in ensuring the safety of equipment, protecting the lives of aircrew members. (Air Force photo by Daniel Kelley)