US Navy USS George Washington aircraft carrier achieves flight deck certification.

NORFOLK, VA, July 1, 2023 - Following a comprehensive evaluation process, the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier, the USS George Washington (CVN 73), successfully completed its Flight Deck Certification (FDC) on June 30, 2023. The certification, marking a pivotal milestone in the carrier's return to full operational status, took place at the Naval Station Norfolk.
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An EA-18G Growler assigned to Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) 144 lands on the flight deck of the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS George Washington (CVN 73) while underway in the Atlantic Ocean on June 26, 2023. (Picture source U.S. DoD)

Flight Deck Certification is a rigorous assessment of the carrier's capacity to launch and recover aircraft safely in varying conditions, including day and night operations. The FDC process is critical in providing operational continuity and proficiency training for carrier crews.

The USS George Washington underwent a demanding three-day testing phase, during which it conducted 247 day and night catapult launches and arrested landings, simulated emergencies, night taxi drills, and hangar bay aircraft spotting drills. The trials also involved an inspection team from Commander, Naval Air Forces Atlantic (CNAL) assessing the carrier's air department response capabilities to flight deck casualties and firefighting.

As part of the process, the ship also received fuel system certification and conducted additional carrier qualifications in support of Carrier Air Wing One (CVW-1).

With the certification, the air wing pilots will now embark on additional carrier qualifications and proficiency drills designed to prepare the squadrons and the carrier for future operations.

"This marks a significant stride in the return of USS George Washington to sea operations after its extensive Refueling Complex Overhaul," said a Navy spokesperson. "It's the first time the ship and CVW-1 aircraft and personnel have integrated and operated together since the overhaul."

The USS George Washington, the fourth United States Navy ship named after the nation's first president, was commissioned on July 4, 1992. This impressive nuclear-powered aircraft carrier can support a flight group of over 60 aircraft and is capable of launching and recovering planes while moving at high speeds.

The next few months will see George Washington undertake additional missions in preparation for a homeport change. It is also set to become a Forward Deployed Naval Force asset in the U.S. Pacific Fleet.

With the ability to remain at sea for extended periods due to its nuclear reactors, the USS George Washington continues to provide strategic and tactical advantages, reinforcing the United States' commitment to maintaining naval superiority.