In a tribute to a century of aerial refueling excellence, the United States Air Force (USAF) is set to perform flyovers across all 50 states on June 27.
On June 27, 1923, US Army Air Service aviators accomplished the first-ever aerial refueling, as they passed gasoline through a gravity hose between two DH-4B aircraft.
Today, more than 150 tankers from 26 Total Force installations are set to participate with KC-135 Stratotankers, KC-10 Extenders, and KC-46 Pegasus aircraft during the flyovers, celebrating a game-changing capability delivered 100 years ago.
“Air refueling propels our Nation’s air power across the skies, unleashing its full potential,” said Gen. Mike Minihan, Air Mobility Command commander.
“It connects our strategic vision with operational reality, ensuring we can reach any corner of the globe with unwavering speed and precision. Air refueling embodies our resolve to defend freedom and project power, leaving an indelible mark on aviation history,” he added.
The announcement made at the beginning of this year regarding the acquisition of the KC-46A and the accelerated pursuit of the next-generation air refueling system (NGAS) is driving the advancement of the capability that was developed and entrusted to Airmen a century ago, stated USAF.
