Spartan and KC-767A

Representatives AleniaAermacchi informed of the completion of testing in-flight refueling of transport aircraft C-27J Spartan. Fuel transfusions of Boeing KC-767A Italian Air Force.


Tests carried out using the air force base Pratica di Mare and the aircraft stationed there tank cargo KC-767A. After testing ground, which showed no faults, began a series of flight tests. 

Connections made at altitudes from 3300 to 6600 for me at speeds around 480 km / h, both day and night. In the latter case a transport pilots used night vision goggles. Spartan also examined behavior in extreme situations: in the turbulence caused by the flight immediately after the tanker and the procedure for implementing the emergency disconnect fuel line. All - according to the manufacturer - ended with positive results.

C-27J was flown by employees AleniaAermacchi, and attempts were carried out with participation of specialists in Rolls-Royce `ai Dowty, manufacturers of engines and propellers. The tests were necessary to obtain a certificate, which allows to conduct aerial refueling. At present, adequate facilities have been installed in 12 Italian aircraft and one of the Lithuanian Air Force.