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The C-5M has loads of life yet
Clean
September 24, 2009 12:31 PM PDT
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This is the plane that started it all - the original Jumbo Jet. For those who have seen it up close, its something you don't forget. Telling us how the program is going (very, very well, thank you), is Jeff Armentrout, Lockheed Martin's C-5 Business Development Manager.

Jeff explains how the M is exceeding expectations - they set out to break over 30 records on a recent flight and managed over 40! The airframe has 70% of its life left and therefore can go to 2040. Truly a testament to remarkable engineering. About 75% of the better performance comes from the GE CF-6 engines.

Jeff then goes on to share thoughts about what might come next; composites, more avionics improvements, and improved fuel burn from better drag and, maybe, winglets! Yes, think about how big those would have to be on that wing. This is a great briefing for any fan of older planes that still do their job very well.