Boeing C-17 Globemaster III · PlaneSpot

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05 Aug 2026 · © Unknown

RAF Boeing C-17 Globemaster III (ZZ177) on approach—massive lifter in active military duty.

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User · 06 Aug 2026

Love this!

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Aircraft

C-17 Globemaster III C17

Royal Air Force grey military scheme

Airline

Royal Air Force

Manufacturer

Gear

Canon PowerShot SX530 HS 4.3-215.0 mm

Achievements

Cargo King, Rare Bird, Runway Royalty, Winglet Watcher, Boeing Beginner, Military Maverick

6 badges earned

Photo grade

B

Bronze

Score: 71.0

Impressive C-17 in-flight, but softness and slight blur detract from a dynamic, nicely composed frame.

Insights

Aviation History

The C-17 is the backbone strategic/tactical airlifter for many air forces including the RAF, USAF, Australia, India, and more. Essential for global military transport since the 1990s.

Fleet Rarity

RAF operates only 8 C-17s, all based at Brize Norton.

Record Flights

RAF C-17s have enabled irregular, rapid missions around the globe; notable for Kabul evacuations and long-range repatriation/diplomatic flights.

Safety & Events

RAF C-17 ZZ177 was widely reported as part of high-profile operations, including repatriation of Queen Elizabeth II’s coffin in 2022.

Future Outlook

Still active in RAF service; C-17 platform likely to continue well into 2040s.

Specifications

Pratt & Whitney F117-PW-100

Engine

51.75 m

Wingspan

53.04 m

Length

4,482 km (with maximum payload)

Range

830 km/h

Speed

Up to 77,519 kg cargo or 102 troops

Capacity

265,350 kg

MTOW

16.79 m

Height

4 x 40,440 lbf (180 kN)

Thrust

ICAO Chapter 3; ~95-100 dB on takeoff

Noise