The Crazy Process of Maintaining US Largest Helicopter in Middle of the Ocean

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Work Horse

Sikorsky CH-53Es are 100ft long helicopters designed to carry 32,000lbs of payload and a maximum of 55 US troops. However, the four-decade-old helicopters are known for their long repair times.

A Price To Pay

Due to the helicopter’s old age, it is subject to a comprehensive maintenance routine. These can range from the controls, technology, and other parts of the aircraft.

Lengthy Repairs

It takes about 40 to 44 hours of maintenance to fix up a Super Stallion. Now, that wouldn’t be such a big deal, but – that’s 40 maintenance hours per flight hour. It is estimated that one flight hour costs around $20,000.

Two Is Better Than One

Both sailors and marine personnel are responsible for maintaining the Super Stallion if it is assigned to an American vessel. This isn’t a surprise if you take its 40-hour maintenance into consideration.

Handled Delicately

These aging helicopters are handled with care. Crew members use heavy-lifting cranes, dollies, and much more heavy equipment to facilitate the Super Stallion’s repairs as quickly and safely as possible.