Wing Box Problem Spreads Among Old C-130s: 
About one year ago, Air Mobility Command grounded 30 C-130E transport aircraft that evinced numerous, severe cracks to the center wing box structure. It placed another 60 C-130s—a mix of models—in restricted flying status. Today, the number grounded is 38, reports the Macon (Ga.) Telegraph, as more of the elderly airlifters reached a critical 45,000 flying-hour mark. The recovery plan calls for a mix of replacing the boxes on some aircraft, repairing cracks on others, and retiring some in favor of new C-130Js coming on line. A new wing box, installation kit, and the actual installation—done by the Warner Robins Air Logistics Center in Georgia—cost about $9 million per aircraft, officials told the Telegraph.
U.S. Air Force F-15C Eagles have roared out of Barnes Air National Guard Base, Mass., for the last time. The 104th Fighter Wing’s last three F-15Cs departed the base Oct. 23 for the “Boneyard” at Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, Ariz., ending the aircraft's era on the frontlines of homeland defense.
