Which personnel is responsible for ensuring proper safety on a C-17 mission?

The Safety Officer is primarily responsible for ensuring that all safety protocols and procedures are properly followed during a C-17 mission. This includes conducting risk assessments, identifying safety hazards, and implementing measures to mitigate those risks. The Safety Officer plays a crucial role in maintaining a safe operating environment for both the crew and any personnel involved in the mission, ensuring compliance with both military and aviation safety regulations.

While other roles like the Loadmaster, Project Manager, and Flight Engineer have specific responsibilities related to their functions—such as managing cargo, coordinating mission logistics, and overseeing technical aircraft operations—the ultimate accountability for overall safety during the mission rests with the Safety Officer. Their specialized training equips them to enforce safety measures and respond to emergencies, which is vital for successfully conducting operations in the dynamic and complex environment associated with airlift missions like those performed by the C-17.