The C-5 Galaxy transport fleet at Dover Air Force Base has been grounded, due to the failure of a nose landing gear.
The Air Mobility Command commander directed the stand-down of C-5 flying operations at Dover Air Force Base, following the second malfunction of C-5 nose landing gear within the last 60 days, an Air Force release stated.
“Aircrew safety is always my top priority and is taken very seriously,” said Gen. Carlton D. Everhart II, Air Mobility Command commander. “We are taking the appropriate measures to properly diagnose the issue and implement a solution.”
Inspections will occur to ensure the proper extension and retraction of the C-5 nose landing gear. Twelve C-5 aircraft are assigned to Dover AFB, according to an Air Force lease. There are 56 C-5 aircraft in the Air Force fleet. The stand-down only impacts Dover AFB.
Dover Air Force Base has a mixed fleet comprised of the C-5 and the C-17, a newer transport aircraft. The massive jets fly all over the world.
The base itself has undergone a long-running period of investment that has eased fears that it could end up on the chopping block.
More recent improvements have included a new cargo terminal and an upgrade of its runways.The base is a major driver in the Kent County economy. Employment at the base has been stable
The base is a major driver in the Kent County economy. Employment at the base has been stable or declined slightly, due to the “sequester” that temporarily reduced funds for the military.
