USAF's Pegasus makes debute

On 9 November 2024, the 56th Air Refueling Squadron, part of the 97th Air Mobility Wing, based at Altus AFB (OK), made history by debuting the world’s first Boeing KC-46A Pegasus demo team.

The debute was performed by 56th Air Refueling Squadron's flagship KC-46A 16-46012 "The Spirit of the mighty 97th" during the Fly-In at The Wings and Warriors at San Marcos (TX).

During the San Marcos Fly-In, the Altus team showcased the Pegasus’s air refueling and slow-speed maneuvering capabilities by executing a high-speed pass with the boom deployed at 500 feet. This was followed by a pass with the gear and flaps down.

Part of USAF’s Air Education and Training Command (AETC), the 56th Air Refueling Squadron's motto is "Novi Aut Peri” which translates to “Innovate Or Perish” received its first KC-46A during 2019.

While its predecessor, the McDonnell Douglas KC-10A Extender flew for the last time recently, the KC-46A Pegasus has the ability to refuel using both boom and drogue methods and can receive fuel from other tankers, setting it apart in the tanker fleet. Additionally, the Pegasus can transport cargo, passengers, and provide aeromedical evacuation when needed.

Credit photo: USAF