C-17 Globemaster III: An aircraft as versatile as AE crews

Larger, faster and flexible – a flying ICU. Since joining the U.S. Air Force fleet in 1993, the C-17 Globemaster III has significantly expanded aeromedical evacuation capabilities.

In addition to its transport and other numerous mission sets, the C-17 converts to provide aeromedical evacuation to patients in a broad variety of conditions. The aircraft has played critical roles in various contingencies, bringing warfighters to higher levels of care, bringing patients home to the U.S., and aiding in humanitarian efforts to save the lives of those impacted by natural disasters.

These photos and stories showcase the C-17’s capabilities, and highlight some important missions that use those capabilities.

“The C-17 delivers unrivaled mission and crew support, enabling medics to provide unsurpassed aeromedical evacuation to not only our nation’s wounded warriors, but to transport the critically sick, ill and injured around the globe.”

– U.S. Air Force Maj. Catherine Ortega, 43rd Aeromedical Evacuation Squadron, Pope Field, North Carolina

“The C-17 is one of the most highly capable aeromedical evacuation aircraft. It brings the ease, comfort and readiness to our AE fight and mission.”

– U.S. Air Force Capt. Lauren Kalani, 18th Aeromedical Evacuation Squadron Clinical Quality Element

“By enabling rapid evacuation, the tyranny of time and distance is minimized, and with a warm, lit cargo compartment, we can focus solely on the care of our fellow service members.”

– U.S. Air Force Maj. Catherine Ortega, 43rd Aeromedical Evacuation Squadron, Pope Field, North Carolina

“Providing support and assistance for those in need is inspiring and rewarding. It shows that having air power doesn’t always have to mean going into combat, but also that we have the capability to deliver relief and comfort to so many people.”

– U.S. Air Force Maj. Steven Radaker, detachment commander, 18th Aeormedical Evacuation Squadron