NASA’s flying stratospheric observatory for infrared astronomy (SOFIA) has arrived at Lufthansa Technik’s Hamburg facility for scheduled C-check maintenance. The modified Boeing 747SP, N747NA (c/n 21441), is a joint project between the US space agency and the German Aerospace Centre (see Airliner World, February 2016).
The C-check is the biggest maintenance event for an aircraft other than a complete overhaul, and in the case of SOFIA, all the work will be carried out in accordance with NASA regulations. During the check, engineers from Lufthansa Technik’s VIP and Special Mission Aircraft Services division will undertake a thorough inspection of the aircraft’s structure and action repairs where required. The additional pressure bulkhead on SOFIA, which was added when it was modified for use as an observatory, will be especially challenging, since various fixtures will have to be removed to gain access.
Read the complete article and many more in this issue of
Airliner World
Purchase options below
If you own the issue,
Login to read the full article now.
Single Digital Issue
January 2018
This issue and other back issues are not included in a new Airliner World subscription. Subscriptions include the latest regular issue and new issues released during your subscription.
Annual Digital Subscription
€57,99
billed annually
6 Month Digital Subscription
€30,99
billed twice a year
Monthly Digital Subscription
€5,99
billed monthly