Fleet wide aircraft readiness rates have remained consistent over the last two decades, but not the cost to operate and maintain the aircraft. “Our costs have increased pretty significantly just to attain those mission capable rates,” Faykes said. In the last decade alone, said Faykes, the cost to maintain readiness climbed 87 percent. An older fleet is requiring more and more money to keep in the sky.
Air Force Changes Rules for Pregnant Aircrew—Again
April 3, 2025
The Air Force is changing its policy for pregnant aircrew, generally reverting to rules set in 2019 that barred female aviators from flying during the first trimester—or from flying in aircraft with ejection seats at all—due to potential risks to the pilot and her unborn fetus.