LANGLEY AFB, Va –
After more than 60 years as Langley's base newspaper, The Flyer hits the racks for the last time Jan. 26 as the Air Force transitions to a Web-based news focus.
The change is a result of a 30-percent manning reduction in the public affairs career field, resulting in the loss of an estimated 200 positions.
"Public affairs still has a responsibility to provide accurate, timely and relevant information to Air Force audiences," said Master Sgt. Mark Haviland, Air Combat
Command's base newspaper consultant. "Focusing on Web-based news delivery allows us to accomplish that mission."
Going online not only allows the wing PA staff to concentrate on telling the local story, but also allows them to update their Web-based product in a matter of minutes versus several days.
"People are used to a 24-hour news cycle, information on demand." Sergeant Haviland said. "This change gives PA staffers the flexibility to write about day-today operations - and Airmen won't have to wait a week to get the news."
In addition to more timely, relevant news, the public affairs office will improve its ability to deliver information to a wider audience - deployed servicemembers, families who live off base and retirees.
The 1st FW is the sixth base in ACC to transition its newspaper to an online product.
Like several other base newspapers that have made the transition, The Flyer's publisher, Military Newspapers of Virginia, plans to continue distributing a newspaper
for people who prefer a traditional product. The publication will not be produced by the public affairs staff, but will contain news content from a number of government Web sites, including Langley's, ACC's, Air Force Link and Defense Link.
"This is a win-win situation for Langley; not only will people have the option of accessing news online, but they'll still be able to pick up a newspaper at the BX," said Maj. Jack Miller, 1st FW Public Affairs officer.
Because the public affairs office will still provide news and information for Langley audiences, people should continue submitting story ideas and local interest items by e-mail to 1fw.paedit@langley.af.mil, by fax to 764-3475 or by phone at 764-2018.