Air Force Research Lab scientists working at Little Rock AFB, Ark., are testing the potential of heat and humidity to destroy simulated biological agents contaminating an airframe. Using a decommissioned C-130 that is holding a harmless insecticide simulating a biological agent, the research team is looking for a less damaging alternative to current water decontamination techniques. “By heating the interior of the aircraft from 150 to 170 degrees Fahrenheit in conjunction with a relative humidity at 80 to 90 percent over a period of one to five days, we will gain valuable data on how to destroy biological agents without harming the aircraft,” summed Tim Provens, AFRL’s project engineer. US Transportation Command is funding the study, which AFRL is undertaking in conjunction with Air Mobility Command experts and private contractors. (Little Rock report by 2nd Lt. Mallory Glass)
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.