McConnell Air Force Base conducted a sortie with the KC-46 Pegasus to verify the aircraft’s normal operation and functionality of air refueling systems. The U.S. Air Force’s 344th Air Refueling Squadron refilled two F-16 Fighting Falcons four times with about 29,000 pounds of fuel offloaded during the flight, USAF’s Team McChord said Thursday. The flight is part of the aircraft’s initial test and evaluation period.Â
“We were testing the processes and procedures to make sure that they were validated and adequate,†said Capt. Christopher Cahill, an instructor pilot with the 344th ARS.
Personnel conducted pre-flight checks, prepared tanker contact, refueled F-16 receivers and performed post-landing checks as part of the overall procedure. KC-46 aircrew also provided survey input on effects regarding the refueling process and associated equipment. The 344th ARS will perform more KC-46 test flights with other aircraft to serve as receivers.
