The case is still under investigation, according to the authority
uae10 hours ago
Dubai Air Wing’s C130 Hercules is not just a jumbo plane, but a true hero in times of need. This aircraft has undertaken thousands of noble missions for nearly 4 decades to people affected by natural calamities or war.
From delivering relief materials to earthquake victims in Morocco to flood victims in Pakistan and Libya, this aircraft has transported much-needed relief and extended a helping hand to those trapped in calamities worldwide.
On October 23, Khaleej Times was on board this bird delivering essential supplies to Al Arish Military base in Egypt. With six flights to the military base, the aircraft has delivered over 50 metric tons of aid to Gaza.
Originally part of the UAE Air Force, the C130 joined the Dubai Air Wing in the mid-1980s, becoming a symbol of compassion and aid.
For the last four decades, the aircraft has been in the hands of seasoned pilots from its Air Force days. Joined by a flight engineer in the cockpit, colonels Mohammed Al Hashimi and Muhammed Al Ghanem, have piloted the mighty machine for the last 36 years.
“What makes this aircraft stand out is its ability to operate from any patch of land which is even. It does not require a proper runway and can land and take off from unconventional environments, reaching those in need in a short time,” said Col. Al Hashimi.
Before 2005, the Dubai Air Wing’s C130 was in its original form from the cockpit to the pantry. “In 2005, the aircraft underwent a technical makeover, equipped with cutting-edge INS and radars. Autopilot specifications including high-end software and hardware were installed,” said Col. Al Ghanem.
Apart from carrying relief materials, the C130 can carry helicopters to armoured vehicles and can accommodate a wide range of oversized cargo, including military personnel and standard palletized goods.
The aircraft can carry massive amounts of payload. “It can carry a staggering 20 tons of payload,” said Col. Al Ghanem.
The aircraft can cruise at a maximum speed of over 350 mph at 22,000 feet altitude, and is capable of carrying out even short missions with a flight duration of just 20 minutes. “The shortest distance we have flown is just 20 minutes, to an island near Doha in Qatar, and the longest distance is from Chicago in the United States of America to Pakistan,” said Col Al Hashimi.
The captains piloting the aircraft said that the aircraft and themselves will be every ready responding to calls for aid worldwide and to lend a helping when needed.
ALSO READ:
The case is still under investigation, according to the authority
uae10 hours ago
Astrotourism, art venture, gami-vacation are some of the predicted travel trends next year
uae15 hours ago
Saeed Salem Al Heabsi has a room in his home in Abu Dhabi that resembles a museum, showcasing a collection of rare items
uae15 hours ago
The labour law ensures a fair balance between the rights and obligations of employers and employees; here's what it says about overtime work
uae15 hours ago
The entire world is looking forward to the Council playing its intended role in maintaining international peace and security, it said
uae21 hours ago
The vessel was 10 nautical miles from Zirku Island
uae1 day ago
The MEED Project Awards, regarded as the gold standard in the MENA region since 2007, celebrate the best in engineering, innovation, and sustainability
uae1 day ago
Khalaf Ahmad Al Habtoor's donation to Al Jalila Foundation will also be used to renovate the nephrology unit at Dubai Hospital
uae1 day ago