Flying Jennies Showcase at Air Tattoo, Farnborough

  • Published
  • By Maj. Chad Gibson
  • 403rd Wing
KEESLER AIR FORCE BASE, Miss. -- --  The Air Force Reserve's 815th Airlift Squadron "Flying Jennies" of the 403rd Wing flying the C-130J-30 aircraft will be showcased at the 2008 Royal International Air Tattoo in Fairford, England, July 12-13 and the 2008 Farnborough International Air Show at Farnborough Airfield, Hampshire, England, July 14-20.

This will be the first airshow the Flying Jennies have attended since their return from Al-Udeid, Quatar in support of the Global War on Terrorism, where they completed their second combat-proving rotation of the C-130J-30 Super Hercules.

Nearly half-a-million aviation enthusiasts are expected to attend both air shows. The Farnborough International Air Show is projected to be the largest air show in the world this year.

The C-130J-30 is a venerable workhorse of cargo aircraft and holds numerous C-130 flying records.

Visitors to the U.S. military aircraft corral will be able interact with aircrew, take photos and learn more about the most technologically advanced C-130 in the world.

The Air Force Reserve's 403rd Wing was the first American unit to fly the J-model and was instrumental in bringing the aircraft online for the U.S. Air Force.

"This is a huge opportunity to demonstrate rapid, global mobilization to our international friends," said Lt. Col. Brian Freeman, aircraft commander. "We look forward to showcasing one of world's leading cargo transports and the hard work of the Air Force Reserve."

Various models of U.S. military aircraft are scheduled for static displays and demonstrations. Approximately 50 aircrew and support personnel from bases in Europe and the United States are scheduled to attend. U.S. military personnel participating in the air show will provide aircrew, maintenance and administrative support services.