I had the opportunity to ride along with the United States Coast Guard (USCG) in their HC-144 Ocean Sentry during the 2023 Westfield International Airshow. The crew and aircraft are based at Air Station Cape Cod, located in Buzzards Bay, Massachusetts. The Coast Guard operates two types of aircraft there, the Ocean Sentry and the MH-60 Jayhawk helicopter. Air Station Cape Cod is the only USCG base in the Northeast area of the United States and has a patrol range as far south as New Jersey and the Canadian border to the north.

The Ocean Sentry is a medium range aircraft that performs multiple duties for the USCG. The primary duties include surveillance as well as search and rescue. The aircraft is equipped with several state-of-the-art sensors and is also capable of aerial delivery of rescue equipment which may include life rafts, flares, and water pumps. If needed, the aircraft can also transport cargo via standard pallets and is equipped with loading ramp for easy access and quick transformation between mission types.

Our flight began with a quick safety briefing and seating assignments. We were given headsets to listen to the pre-flight checklists between the pilot, Lt. Riley Beecher, and co-pilot, Lt. Sbalbi. Engines were started and warmed up. The Loadmaster, AMT Allen Rosario, explained that the aircraft was capable of short takeoffs and landings (STOL) and the feature was demonstrated with ours. After takeoff, we were allowed to get up and walk to the various stations and windows of the aircraft. The rear ramp was lowered to demonstrate the aircraft’s primary mission. I was fortunate to be one of the passengers allowed to walk onto the back ramp after being safety harnessed to the aircraft. The view out the back was spectacular. The Loadmaster explained that during a search and rescue type mission, the crew use the ramp to look out the back to search along with the aircraft’s numerous sensors. Electronics are not yet foolproof.

We made several passes over the Westfield airfield and then had to get buckled in for landing. A short field landing was simulated and we taxied back to the ramp. It was very enlightening to get a glimpse into the mission and aircraft. The USCG has a very important mission both on the water and in the air. Assets like the Ocean Sentry and Jayhawk ensure that our waterways are safe and that there is hope in the event of a maritime accident. Semper Paratus!