No JATO on this one. They indicated that they will only use them at a handful of airshows this year due to availability issues. They have to preserve adequate quantities for actual combat use.

That said, I was stunned by the acceleration of the lightly loaded Herc. Keep in mind that I was sitting sideways in a simple lap belt. When our pilot released the brakes, everyone in the passenger compartment was was jerked almost flat sideways due to the acceleration. There was a lot of laughing and even a number of the AF Pilots on board said they were surprised and impressed.

Chris

Oh OK. I thought they used them for every show.

Makes sense.

Great pics, and what an experience that must have been.

In my opinion the Hercules is the very finest aircraft ever created! I mean, how can you NOT be impressed by a plane that big, that can do anything you ask it to, and more!? I wonder how many people owe their lives to Lockheed.

I'd hate not being able to see out of it, but I'm sure I'd love it still

THAT is what it's all about Chris!!

Fantastic!!

Thanks for the comments. It really was a blast, something I will always remember and I don't think I will ever look at a Herc the same way again!

Chris