Reps. LaHood, Bustos request Air Force long-term fleet plan

Reps. Darin LaHood (R-IL) and Cheri Bustos (D-IL) are calling upon Air Force personnel to provide a long-term C-130 aircraft fleet management plan.

The representatives recently forwarded correspondence to the House Committee on Armed Services regarding the request amid the committee’s work on the National Defense Authorization Act.

The lawmakers maintain for Fiscal Year 2021 the Air Force has proposed to reduce the C-130H fleet, which LaHood and Bustos said would place the Peoria 182nd Airlift Wing’s mission readiness at risk and reduce combat efficiency.

“The most recent Mobility Capabilities and Requirements Study found a need to maintain 300 theater airlift aircraft to meet requirements,” the legislators wrote. “Nevertheless, the Air Force proposes to assume the risk of a smaller theater airlift fleet and has not provided sufficient justification. Any reduction in crucial capabilities should be the result of informed decision making.”

The lawmakers indicated in the correspondence the most recent Mobility Capabilities and Requirements Study found a need to maintain 300 theater airlift aircraft to meet requirements, with the Air Force proposing a smaller theater airlift fleet without providing sufficient justification.

“Therefore, we ask that the Committee continue to require the Air Force to provide its data-driven reasoning for a smaller C-130 fleet, and to provide a sustainable, long-term fleet management plan,” LaHood and Bustos concluded. “The hard-working men and women of our ANG units deserve consistency. We look forward to working with you on other ways to manage the C-130H fleet responsibly.”