What is the largest department within an aviation squadron?

The largest department within an aviation squadron is typically the Maintenance department. This department is responsible for ensuring that all aircraft are in safe and operational condition, which involves a wide range of activities including preventative maintenance, repairs, inspections, and modifications. The number of personnel needed for these functions generally exceeds that of other departments due to the complexity of the work and the need for specialized technical skills.

In comparison, while the Operations department is crucial and comprises pilots and aircrew responsible for flying and mission planning, it usually has a smaller number of personnel than Maintenance. The Training department focuses on the education and preparation of personnel for their roles, which requires fewer staff when compared to the extensive maintenance tasks. Administration handles support functions like logistics, finance, and personnel management but typically does not demand as large a workforce as Maintenance, reflecting its role in operational readiness and support.