First Time A 737 Has Been Fueled In-Flight

Boeing recently announced some much-needed good news regarding its delayed 737 "Wedgetail" program for Australia's air force. The company has completed the first aerial refuelings of the platform.

Flying at 25,000 feet above Edwards Air Force Base, CA on January 7, Boeing pilot Ron Johnston maneuvered the 737-700 AEW&C aircraft into a US Air Force KC-10 tanker's refueling boom envelope and maintained its position below the tanker. The 737 received approximately 14,000 pounds of fuel during two connections with the tanker.

"The aircraft was stable, with excellent flying qualities and engine response behind the tanker," said Johnston.

The historic flights -- the first-ever inflight refueling of a 737-based plane -- were conducted for Project Wedgetail, Australia's airborne early warning and control (AEW&C) program. The aircraft achieved another aerial-refueling first on January 10, when it received fuel from an Air Force KC-135 tanker.

"The 737 AEW&C aircraft's highly automated and efficient refueling system worked flawlessly in both tests," said Maureen Dougherty, AEW&C Program vice president for Boeing. "This is a key milestone in certifying the AEW&C system.

"Air-to-air refueling is a force multiplier for the AEW&C aircraft," Dougherty added, "allowing it to stay on station for significantly longer periods of time while providing critical battle-management and surveillance capabilities."

Project Wedgetail includes six 737 AEW&C aircraft plus ground support segments for mission crew training, mission support and system. ANN reported in November 2008 that Boeing has announced Australia won't see its first modified plane until later this year... three years behind schedule.

FMI: www.boeing.com