The first C-17 squadron to deploy and operate from within Southwest Asia—the 17th Airlift Squadron from Charleston AFB, S.C.—flew more than 3,300 sorties, delivering more than 85 million pounds of cargo and nearly 100,000 US and coalition military members over its three-month rotation. And, according to an Air Force release, the squadron rated a first for having one C-17 crew conduct combat airdrops to six drop zones in less than one hour. It’s a tough act to follow, but the 14th Airlift Squadron is now in theater to continue the work.
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.