DA Form 7871: Airfield Management Commander’s Task List 2026 – US Army commanders and airfield operations teams rely on DA Form 7871 (Commander’s Task List – Airfield Management) to ensure mission-ready personnel, maintain safety standards, and support efficient airfield operations. This official form, dated September 2023, helps track, assign, and assess critical tasks for soldiers in airfield management roles.
Whether you’re an airfield management officer, NCO, or commander at a US Army installation, understanding DA Form 7871 is essential for compliance with Army regulations and operational readiness. This guide covers everything you need to know, including how to complete the form, its key sections, and where to download the latest fillable PDF directly from official sources.
What Is DA Form 7871?
DA Form 7871, titled Commander’s Task List – Airfield Management, is a Department of the Army form used specifically for airfield management personnel. Published in September 2023 by the Training and Doctrine Command (TRADOC), it replaces previous editions and is the current standard for documenting soldier development and task proficiency in airfield operations.
The form focuses on training, readiness, and accountability for tasks related to airfield safety, operations, and contingency planning. It is designed for use by commanders to assign, track, and verify completion of both general and specialized airfield management duties. Previous editions are obsolete, ensuring all units use the most up-to-date version aligned with current doctrine.
Purpose of the Commander’s Task List for Airfield Management
The primary purpose of DA Form 7871 is to serve as a standardized tool for commanders to develop soldiers in airfield management roles. It tracks individual training progress, ensures compliance with safety and operational standards, and supports overall airfield readiness.
Key objectives include:
- Documenting soldier personal data and duty assignments.
- Planning and recording completion of airfield-specific tasks.
- Assessing proficiency in critical areas such as contingency operations, safety programs, and airfield infrastructure management.
- Providing a clear record for commander review and certification upon task completion.
This form directly supports US Army airfield operations by promoting soldier development, risk management, and regulatory compliance. It is referenced in ATP 3-04.16 (Airfield Operations), the key doctrinal publication for airfield management.
Key Sections of DA Form 7871
DA Form 7871 is a two-page form organized into clear, actionable sections. Here’s a breakdown of its main components:
Airfield Management Personal Data (Page 1)
- Name (Last, First, MI)
- Duty Position
- Rank
- Date Assigned
- Operating Initials
This section establishes the soldier’s identity and assignment details.
Plan (Soldier Development) and Task Lists (Page 1)
The form includes multiple task tables categorized as:
- General Airfield Management Tasks (e.g., Coordinate Airspace Usage Agreements, Inspect Airfield Signage and Markings, Develop Airfield Parking Plan).
- Installation AM Tasks (specific numbered tasks such as Contingency Airfield Management CBT, Process DD Form 175, Maintain NOTAM, etc.).
- Unit AM Training Tasks (e.g., Oversee Handling of Classified Material, Perform Aviation Liaison Officer Duties, Manage the Aviation Safety Program).
- Assess Tasks (e.g., Integrate Risk Management into Aviation Operations, Complete an Operational Hazard Report).
Additional Requirements and Continuation (Page 2)
Additional unit-specific or mission-essential tasks are listed here, including:
- Coordinate Airfield Defense Measures
- Review the Airfield Security Plan
- Review Airfield Surveys and Assessments
- Coordinate and Report Airfield Pavement Conditions
- Assess Airfield Marking and Lighting Requirements
Signatures and Acknowledgement (Page 2)
Signature blocks for:
- AM Section NCOIC/OIC
- Soldier
- Commander (final certification upon completion of the CTL)
How to Complete DA Form 7871 Step by Step?
- Fill Personal Data – Enter the soldier’s name, rank, duty position, date assigned, and operating initials.
- Identify Required Tasks – Review the pre-listed tasks in General, Installation, Unit, and Assess categories. Mark or date those applicable to the individual.
- Add Additional Requirements – Include any unit-specific tasks not covered in the standard lists.
- Track Completion – Record dates as tasks are completed during training or operations.
- Obtain Signatures – The AM Section NCOIC/OIC, soldier, and commander must sign and date upon full completion.
The form must be used in accordance with ATP 3-04.16. Always use the latest fillable version to ensure compliance.
Why DA Form 7871 Matters for US Army Airfield Operations?
In today’s operational environment, airfield management is critical to aviation safety, mission success, and force protection. DA Form 7871 helps commanders:
- Maintain high standards of training and readiness.
- Ensure personnel are qualified in key areas like FOD prevention, NOTAM management, risk assessment, and emergency response.
- Meet regulatory requirements for airfield inspections, security, and contingency planning.
Proper use of this form supports overall Army aviation readiness and helps prevent incidents through systematic soldier development.
Download Official DA Form 7871 PDF (Fillable)
Get the most current version directly from the official Army source:
This is the authoritative, fillable PDF hosted on armypubs.army.mil. Always verify you are using the September 2023 edition (previous editions are obsolete).
Related Regulations and Publications
- ATP 3-04.16 – Airfield Operations (primary reference)
- AR 95-2 – Air Traffic Control, Airfield/Heliport, and Airspace Operations
- Other supporting Army publications on aviation safety and airfield management
Commanders and airfield personnel should consult these alongside DA Form 7871 for full compliance.
Best Practices for Using DA Form 7871
- Review and update the form regularly during soldier development cycles.
- Use it as a living document to track progress toward full qualification.
- Combine with hands-on training, CBTs, and Mobile Training Team sessions where applicable.
- Maintain completed forms in unit training records for audits and inspections.
- Ensure all signatures are obtained promptly upon task completion to close out the Commander’s Task List.
DA Form 7871 is an essential tool for US Army commanders responsible for airfield management. By clearly documenting tasks, training, and certifications, it ensures airfield operations remain safe, efficient, and combat-ready. Download the official form today and incorporate it into your unit’s training program to meet Army standards and support mission success.
For the latest official guidance, always refer to armypubs.army.mil and ATP 3-04.16. Stay mission-ready with proper use of the Commander’s Task List – Airfield Management.