1. Figure 1.23-1 shows the most common types of departmental configurations. Deviation from these layouts may occur as necessary, but only the CNO will authorize additional departments.

2. Aircraft carriers (as well as surface combatants with complex, integrated combats systems suites) often have a combat systems department in lieu of a weapons department. In ships only assigned a helicopter detachment, an air department exists when the detachment is embarked. The detachment officer in charge is the department head.

Carriers, LHDs, and LHAs are structured with permanent air departments. In addition, on these platforms there exists a permanent safety department and aircraft intermediate maintenance department.

3. Given the daunting task of personnel administration and management onboard a carrier , Figure 1.23-1 shows the additional departments required. Specifically:

a. A medical department if a medical officer is aboard
b. A dental department if a dental officer is aboard
c. A legal department if a judge advocate is assigned
d. A chaplain department if a chaplain is permanently assigned
e. A maintenance management department


4. An aviation units organization is based on primary billets authorized by the CNO. Aircraft squadrons are organized into separate departments and divisions under the squadron commanding officer. The squadron commanding officer administers the activities of the departments through the squadron executive officer. Department heads may be assigned assistants to carry out all departmental duties. Unless directed otherwise, the squadron commanding officer directs the specific assignments of officers.

5. The carrier commanding officer exercises the sole authority to convene courts-martial on all personnel embarked. The authority of an air wing commander and the commanding officers of squadrons to impose nonjudicial punishment on their respective personnel continues, unless this authority is assumed by the carrier commanding officer. Commanding officers of squadrons retain the authority to initiate administrative discharge proceedings against their personnel.

6. Departments of aircraft squadrons are divided into divisions and branches which are organized by the squadron commanding officer according to the needs and responsibilities of that particular type of squadron. When an individual unit establishes a division not in accordance with figure 1.23-1, it must be approved by the type commander.