Heated Flight Suits on Air Force's Priority List for Aircrews A special missions aviator instructor with the 54th Helicopter Squadron prepares for takeoff at Minot Air Force Base, N.D., on May 13, 2014. Heated flight suits would help protect aircrews from cold injuries, the service says. (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Airman Brittany Y. Bateman) 9 Mar 2021 The Air Force has released its wish list for better gear for pilots, aircrew and base defenders -- and heated flight suits are near the top. In two solicitation notices posted earlier this year, the service said it wants heated flight suits and upgraded eye protection to protect aircrews from lasers, while it also hunts for standard-issue ammo pouches and a backpack hydration system for its Security Forces personnel.