The first of four military Boeing 757s, designated C-32A, made its maiden flight from the company's Renton site on 11 February.
The first aircraft, NP901, landed at nearby Boeing Field after a 2h test flight. Unlike previous military transports built for the US Air Force, the C-32As are being purchased using standard commercial practices. The test sortie was therefore designated as a normal "B-1" flight, as if the 757 were for a commercial customer.
Further flights are due to begin by 16 February, following Satcom UHF communications ground and electro-magnetic testing. Four aircraft are being bought by the USAF as part of a $540 million package, to replace ageing C/VC-137s. The first two will be delivered early in the second quarter to the 89th Airlift Wing at Andrews AFB, Maryland. The aircraft will carry 45 passengers, plus crew.
Source: Flight International
