Boeing C-17 Globemaster III

eli1483d 🇬🇧

17 Feb 2026 · © Unknown

The attitude and details of the flight suit make this a classic C-17 shot, popular among spotters

7 likes 2 comments

Comments (2)

Mozza Aviation · 17 Feb 2026

Great Catch!

Advait S · 17 Feb 2026

Perfect timing!

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Aircraft

C-17 Globemaster III C17

US Air Force (standard gray)

Airline

US Air Force

RCH

Manufacturer

Boeing

Location

Glasgow Prestwick Airport

PIK/EGPK

55.5015, -4.5772

Open map

Glasgow Prestwick Airport PIK

Airport

Insights

Aviation History

Critical US/EU military airlifter, service since 1995, still the primary heavy strategic airlift for US and allies.

Fleet Rarity

Over 275 built; relatively common among heavy military cargo jets, but not civilian-operated.

Record Flights

Notable for rapid global deployments including disaster relief, combat missions, and supporting Antarctica operations.

Safety & Events

Mostly reliable, minor mechanical incidents; played key roles in Afghanistan, Iraq, and humanitarian missions.

Future Outlook

Still active; US and some allied fleets expected to fly into 2040s.

Specifications

Pratt & Whitney F117-PW-100

Engine

51.75 m

Wingspan

53.04 m

Length

4,482 km with max payload

Range

830 km/h

Speed

134 troops, 85.5 tons (77,519 kg) cargo

Capacity

265,352 kg

MTOW

16.79 m

Height

4 x 181.4 kN (40,400 lbf)

Thrust

ICAO Chapter 3, 103-107 dB

Noise

Registration not visible; cropped cockpit detail—main ID based on window and framing shape.