C-130J environmental analysis complete
Air Mobility Command News
Release Date: 11/01/2002
POPE AIR FORCE BASE, N.C. (AMCNS) - Brig. Gen. Winfield W. Scott III, 43rd Airlift Wing commander, signed a "Finding of No Significant Impact" document to complete the environmental impact analysis process for basing C-130J aircraft here. The environmental assessment was accomplished by the U.S. Air Force, Air Mobility Command and the 43rd Airlift Wing.
The environmental assessment examined issues relating to land use, airspace and safety, air and water quality, noise, socioeconomic impacts, biological and cultural resources, and cumulative actions. These findings clear the way for Pope's conversion from C-130E to C-130J aircraft models as part of AMC's plans to modernize the C-130 fleet.
Pope's two airlift squadrons will convert aircraft one at a time to minimize the disruption to their worldwide missions in support of the Air Force, Army, Navy, special operations and the president.
The new C-130J model aircraft will increase airlift capacity and enhance Pope's mission effectiveness. C-130J aircraft are 15 feet longer than the C-130E, and provide an additional 1,350 cubic feet of cargo space to carry 2 more pallets, 28 more paratroopers, 36 more combat troops, or 23 more medical litters than can be carried on the C-130E aircraft.
Upgraded engines and advanced avionics increase aircraft range and efficiency, allow for an aircrew size reduction from five to three personnel, and result in lower operating and support costs.
To accommodate the larger aircraft, ground equipment, and training devices, the Air Force will spend approximately $40 million in new construction and renovation of existing facilities.
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