What is a KC-135 boom operator?
Operating a specialized boom from the back of a KC-135, In-flight Refueling Specialists pump thousands of gallons of jet fuel into aircraft in need of fuel.
What does an Air Force boom operator do?
In the U.S. Air Force (USAF), a boom operator is an aircrew member aboard tanker aircraft who is responsible for safely and effectively transferring aviation fuel from one military aircraft to another during flight (known as aerial refueling, air refueling, in-flight refueling, air-to-air refueling, and tanking).
Which aviation occupation specialty would be found on a KC-135 supply aircraft?
135 Stratotanker
The KC-135 Stratotanker provides the core aerial refueling capability for the United States Air Force and has excelled in this role for more than 60 years.
How much does a boom operator get paid?
The salary for boom operators varies widely based on experience level and the type of production. On average, boom operators make about $72,000 per year. However, the salary range for this position starts at $37,000 and tops out at $121,000.
How much do boom operators make?
How much do Air Force boom operators make?
The average salary for a Boom Operator is $44,827 per year in United States, which is 13% higher than the average US Air Force salary of $39,642 per year for this job.
Do you have to be tall to be a boom operator?
Some people have a natural ability to do this job quickly, but there is no substitute for experience. Being tall can give some Boom Operators a bit of an edge, but anyone can learn tricks to overcome a lack of height. Agility, being aware of the surroundings, upper body strength and a strong back are a plus as well.
What kind of aircraft is the KC-135 Stratotanker?
“The KC-135 Stratotanker is the US Air Force’s air-to-air refuelling tanker aircraft.”. A shuttlecock drogue can be trailed behind the boom and used to refuel aircraft equipped with refuelling probes. Aircraft fitted with the boom drogue cannot refuel boom and receptacle aircraft.
How does a KC-135 air tanker refuel?
The APU produces the electricity that fires up the KC-135’s engines. The primary air fuel transfer method is through the tanker’s flying boom, controlled by an operator stationed at the rear of the fuselage. USAF aircraft have primarily used this boom and receptacle refuelling technique.
What’s the maximum speed of a KC 135?
The KC-135 can climb at the rate of 1,490m a minute. The maximum and cruise speed of the aircraft are 933km/h and 852km/h respectively. The range is 2,419km. The ferry range and service ceiling of are 17,766km and 15,200m.
Who is the manufacturer of the KC 135?
Rockwell Collins was chosen by the US Air Force to provide engineering, manufacturing and development (EMD) of the KC-135 as part of the block 45 cockpit upgrade programme.