Wing Box Problem Spreads Among Old C-130s: About one year ago, Air Mobility Command grounded 30 C-130E transport aircraft that evinced numerous, severe cracks to the center wing box structure. It placed another 60 C-130s—a mix of models—in restricted flying status. Today, the number grounded is 38, reports the Macon (Ga.) Telegraph, as more of the elderly airlifters reached a critical 45,000 flying-hour mark. The recovery plan calls for a mix of replacing the boxes on some aircraft, repairing cracks on others, and retiring some in favor of new C-130Js coming on line. A new wing box, installation kit, and the actual installation—done by the Warner Robins Air Logistics Center in Georgia—cost about $9 million per aircraft, officials told the Telegraph.
Sharene Brown has led an initiative, “Five and Thrive,” to tackle some of the most vexing issues facing Airmen's families during her husband's time as the Air Force's top officer. Now that Gen. Charles Q. Brown, Jr. has been nominated as the next Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff…