McConnell Air Force Base Relocates Aircraft Ahead of Severe Weather Threats McConnell Air Force Base in Kansas is moving its aircraft away from the Wichita area today to avoid potential damage from severe weather expected to strike the region on Thursday night and again on Friday night. The base issued a statement confirming the relocation, citing forecasts of severe storms with a slight to enhanced risk of dangerous conditions. These storms could bring severe winds, hail, and the possibility of tornadoes, prompting the Air Force to take preventive measures. Aircrews from the 22nd and 931st Air Refueling Wings are relocating the base’s KC-46A Pegasus and KC-135R Stratotanker aircraft to other military installations across the country. This action aims to ensure the aircraft remain fully operational and available for ongoing missions, as well as future taskings. The move also safeguards the planes from potential damage caused by the approaching severe weather. In addition to relocating the active aircraft, the base is securing all remaining planes that are currently undergoing maintenance. These aircraft, along with various flightline vehicles and equipment, are being stored in hangars. This step prepares the base for a range of possible weather scenarios, ensuring that critical assets are protected while maintaining readiness for any mission requirements. The decision reflects the Air Force’s proactive approach to mitigating risks posed by the forecasted severe weather events.#mcconnell_air_force_base #22nd_air_refueling_wing #kc_46a_pegasus #wichita #kc_135r_stratotanker
McConnell Air Force Base relocates aircraft ahead of severe weather threat McConnell Air Force Base is relocating its aircraft to other military installations in preparation for severe weather expected to impact the Wichita area on Thursday night and again on Friday night. The National Weather Service has issued forecasts indicating a slight to enhanced risk of severe storms, with potential for damaging winds, hail, and the possibility of tornadoes. Aircraft from the 22nd and 931st Air Refueling Wings, including the KC-46A Pegasus and KC-135R Stratotanker models, are being moved to multiple bases across the country. This action aims to ensure the aircraft remain fully operational and available for ongoing and future missions while minimizing the risk of damage from the approaching storm system. The base’s statement emphasized that the relocation is a proactive measure to safeguard equipment and maintain mission readiness. All aircraft currently undergoing maintenance, along with flightline vehicles and support equipment, are being secured in hangars. This step is part of the base’s broader preparation to handle a range of weather scenarios, including the potential for extreme conditions. The decision follows recent weather patterns that have raised concerns about the area’s vulnerability to severe thunderstorms. While the exact timing and intensity of the storm remain under observation, the Air Force has prioritized the safety of its assets and personnel. The relocation process involves coordination between active duty and reserve crews, ensuring seamless operations during the transition. The move underscores the importance of contingency planning in military logistics, particularly in regions prone to severe weather.#national_weather_service #mcconnell_air_force_base #22nd_air_refueling_wing #931st_air_refueling_wing #kc_46a_pegasus
