12 February 2019

US Air Force training squadron receives first two KC-46As

by Pat Host

Boeing on 10 February delivered its second KC-46A Pegasus aerial refuelling tanker to the US Air Force’s (USAF’s) 56th Air Refueling Squadron at Altus Air Force Base, Oklahoma, according to a company spokesman.

The 56th Air Refueling Squadron is responsible for KC-46A aircrew, maintenance, and support training. USAF spokesperson Second Lieutenant Abigail Pongracz said on 11 February that Altus AFB is beginning a 60-day familiarisation period where maintenance, aircrew flight equipment, police, fire department, airfield operations, and other crews will be able to get hands-on experience with the aircraft. Three additional KC-46As will be delivered to Altus AFB in the coming weeks, according to a Boeing statement.

A USAF training squadron received its first two KC-46A aerial refuelling tankers. The delivery gives maintainers and other crews the opportunity for hands-on experience with the aircraft. (IHS Markit/Pat Host)

The 97th Air Mobility Wing, since being selected as the USAF’s KC-46A formal training unit in April 2014, has been preparing to receive the aircraft. This was to include construction of a new formal training centre and hangar extensions, along with standing up the first KC-46A squadron.

However, Lt Pongracz said Altus AFB modified previously established infrastructure, such as existing hangars, from flying training units such as the Lockheed Martin C-5 Galaxy and Lockheed C-141 Starlifter. She added that new military construction included simulators, classrooms, and fuselage trainers. The 56th Air Refueling Squadron is part of the 97th Air Mobility Wing.

The first four KC-46As were delivered in January to McConnell Air Force Base, Kansas. Boeing is on contract for 52 of an expected 179 aircraft.

Boeing on 10 February delivered its second KC-46A Pegasus aerial refuelling tanker to the US Air For...

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