Flying visit from RAF C-17 Globemaster
GUERNSEY'S runway played host to a a longrange, heavy-lift strategic transport aircraft this afternoon.
A Royal Air Force C-17 Globemaster was performing essential training exercises over the vicinity of Jersey and Guernsey today.
A spokesperson for the Ports said it landed, stopped, reversed on the runway and took off again.
'It is the first landing and take-off of an aircraft of this type as far as our records date back,' they said.
Crowds of aircraft enthusiasts gathered at the airport, looking to the sky from the car parks and airport tower to get the best view.
The C-17 is capable of rapid, strategic delivery of troops and all types of cargo to main operating bases anywhere in the world.
The Globemaster’s load-bearing rear ramp and digitally controlled loading systems, combined with the skills of its crews and ground handlers, enable large, complex items of equipment, including Chinook helicopters, military vehicles and other heavy items of specialist kit to be loaded.
It can transport 100,000lb (45,360kg) of freight more than 4,500nm (8,334km) while flying at altitudes above 35,000ft.
The aircraft’s design enables high-angle, steep approaches at relatively slow speeds, allowing it to operate into small, austere airfields and onto runways as short as 3,500ft long and just 90ft wide.
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