Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport (AZA, KIWA, IWA) "Willie"

[Matt Ottosen]

Omega Tanker
May 2, 2009


Boeing KC-707

Omega Aerial Refueling Services, Inc. (OARS) has a very successful history as the only company in the world conducting commercial fee-for-service in-flight refueling services.

The KC-707 Omega Tanker is a Boeing 707-300 series aircraft. The aft portion of the aircraft was modified with the two hose and drogue assemblies. Electric, hydraulic and fuel lines tap into the aircraft systems for system operation and fuel transfer. System controls and video monitoring devices were placed in the cockpit.

[Joe Copalman]

E-2C BuNo 165508 of VAW-121 "Bluetails" spools up on the ramp at Willie last July.

[Joe Copalman]

One of ATSI's TA-4Js taxis out prior to a two-ship departure to McConnell AFB back in February.

[John S]

Evergreen Supertanker on 6/11/09 taking off in the mid morning.

[Joe Copalman]

One-off TO-5C crew trainer for the Army's Airborne Reconnaissance Low fleet operated by the 204th MI Battalion.  Gas-n-go at Willie a few months back.

[Dave S.]

A few from last Friday, waiting for WK2 to do something...

[Dave S.]

Don't recall who I was speaking with, but after reviewing the shots from Friday, I did manage to capture the flag on the front seater's left shoulder.  The 2nd pic is a super-crop on the front pilot.  I checked, and it is the national flag of India.

[Matt Ottosen]

Boeing C-40B Clipper
89th Airlift Wing

[Joe Copalman]

Awesome shots Dave.  That was me that suggested they might be Indian Navy pilots.  Funny how the US Navy is training MiG-29 pilots now.  (Even funnier that the pilot is in the "Soccer Mom" jet).

Really dig the Harrier nose-on shot too.

[Joe Copalman]

Forgot all about this one.  Heavily-modified Piper PA-42 Cheyenne operated by US Customs and Border Protection.  Check out the FLIR turret and the extra antennae.

[Joe Copalman]

The beagle has landed.

[Joe Copalman]

Honeywell's 757 on approach for RWY 30R on the last of three touch-and-goes prior to returning to PHX on Wednesday.

[Joe Copalman]

Omega Tanker 707, sunrise departure out of Willie:

[Joe Copalman]

One of two VAQ-129 Growlers that spent last weekend at Willie:

[Matt Ottosen]

Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 232 (VMFA-232) "Red Devils"