What seemed like a very good idea at the time—convert a successful commercial airframe to meet the USAF’s requirements for a new air-to-air refueling tanker—continues to have growing pains. Based on its successful 767 airframe, Boeing eventually won the competition to deliver 179 modern multi role aircraft refueling, as well as a cargo and passenger transport.
The plane is currently barred from carrying passengers or cargo because cargo locks on the floor of the aircraft broke, resulting in cargo being inadequately secured. This is only the latest in a series of deficiencies.
Air Force Mobility Command spokesman Col. Damien Pickart said, “As a result of this discovery, the Air Force has submitted a Category 1 deficiency report and is working with Boeing to identify a solution.” A Category 1 deficiency is an issue that could endanger the aircrew or aircraft.
The aircraft is still cleared for air-to-air refueling operations and, presumably for flight crew training missions.