A specially configured C-130H from Air Force Reserve Command’s 910th Airlift Wing at Youngstown ARS, Ohio, deployed with 10 airmen to Barksdale AFB, La., to conduct aerial spray missions over that state to prevent the spread of mosquitoes and filth flies in the wake of Hurricane Ike. The insects are capable of causing outbreaks of disease such as West Nile Virus if not controlled. The unit’s remaining three modified C-130s were expected to depart Youngstown yesterday for Barksdale, the Air Force announced Wednesday. Each modified C-130 is capable of spraying about 80,000 acres per day. These missions are being coordinated with the Federal Emergency Management Agency, Center for Disease Control, and state public health officials. The Ohio wing is the only military unit tasked to maintain a full-time, fixed-wing aerial spray capability.
Work Has Begun to Adapt Qatari 747 to Fly as Air Force One
Sept. 15, 2025
The Air Force has started modifying a Boeing 747 donated by Qatar for "executive airlift," a spokesperson said Sept. 15. President Donald Trump has said he wants to fly the jet as “Air Force One” since new presidential transports, held up by delays, won't be ready until after his term…
