MACDILL AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. -- The ability to adapt and react to a change in plans or process is key to high functioning operations like the 6th Maintenance Squadron. This idea is in full effect at MacDill, as Airmen are preparing a KC-135 Stratotanker aircraft for much more in-depth maintenance than they’ve performed before.
The KC-135 sustained damage to a pivot in the landing gear of the aircraft’s left wing. The pivot is designed to move the gear smoothly from the wing to its proper engaged position. Under normal circumstances, pilots would fly the aircraft to the Oklahoma City Air Logistics Complex, Tinker Air Force Base, Okla., for depot maintenance by the 76th Maintenance Group. Given the severity of the damage, assessments ruled out a one-time flight to Tinker.
The first task was to remove all four engines and close the cowling doors that house them. The Airmen then removed the landing gear making it possible to lift the aircraft up on jacks without putting massive amounts of stress on the wings from the weight.
“Getting all four engines closed with the cowlings closed at the same time is not something we do on a day-to-day basis,” said Air Force Master Sgt. Nicholas Chapman, 6th Maintenance Squadron production superintendent. “It’s a challenge that’s driving everybody to work a little harder.”
Working outside of their normal parameters, the team displayed their ability to adjust to new technical orders on the fly, while remaining diligent with their processes.
“Typically maintenance performed is scheduled, very methodical and process driven,” said Tech Sgt. Eric Holton, 6th MXS aerospace propulsion NCO in charge “Under these unique circumstances, the team is doing a fantastic job recognizing safety.”
All together maintenance expects to take approximately three weeks. The depot team are experts in handling the work load involved with large rivets, which makes them necessary, according to Chapman.
Upon completion, the repaired KC-135 will return to the skies to execute unmatched air refueling and rapid global mobility.