NIAR tours McConnell
Sharon Hamric, 22nd Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs community relations chief, shows National Institute for Aviation Research members, touring the base from Wichita State University, a KC-135 Stratotanker boom pod during an isochronal inspection Nov. 2, 2009, at McConnell Air Force Base, Kan. Isochronal inspections involve aircraft being taken apart evaluated for overall operational condition and inspected for corrosion, cracks, fuel leaks, and loose or missing fasteners. The NIAR aging aircraft laboratory also investigates aircraft problems caused by corrosion and fatigue and is currently working on a KC-135 Stratotanker. (U.S. Air Force Photo/Airman 1st Class Ruiz)