New Air Force Refueling Tanker Takes Flight
The U.S. Air Force came one step closer to receiving the next-generation air refueling tanker with the successful completion of the first flight of the KC-46 program test aircraft on Dec. 28. The plane, a Boeing 767-2C, took off from Paine Field, Wash., at 9:29 a.m. (PST) and landed three hours and 32 minutes later at Boeing Field. The aircraft will receive its military systems following certification. Â
The flight represents a significant step in Boeing’s commitment to deliver the KC-46A Pegasus to the U.S. Air Force. Boeing will begin delivering production tankers to the Air Force in 2016. Â
As part of the contract awarded in 2011 to design and develop the USAF’s next-generation tanker aircraft, Boeing has built four test aircraft – two 767-2Cs and two KC-46A tankers. The 767-2Cs enter flight test as commercial freighters prior to receiving their aerial refueling systems, while the KC-46As will fly as fully-equipped tankers during the FAA and military certification process. Â
The KC-46A is a multi-role tanker that can refuel all U.S., allied and coalition military aircraft compatible with international aerial refueling procedures and can carry passengers, cargo and patients.