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Two Hercules aircraft will conduct tactical flight training over North Bay next week

Tactical flight training may involve aircraft flying at low altitudes, high speeds and performing turns. During this exercise aircraft may operate as low as 200 feet above ground level
20220505 CC-130J Hercules turl 1
Expect to see a pair of CC-130J Hercules aircraft in North Bay skies next week.

You'll get the opportunity to watch two CC-130J Hercules aircraft conduct tactical flight training in North Bay skies starting tomorrow until Friday, May 13.

The pair are from 436 Transport Squadron, based out of 8 Wing Trenton.

"Tactical flight training, which may involve aircraft flying at low altitudes, high speeds and performing turns, is essential for maintaining the skills of aircrew, so they are ready to safely execute Canadian Armed Forces missions around the world; often under challenging conditions," states a news release.

"It is important that these proficiencies are maintained in Canada so our aircrew are prepared to execute these manoeuvres in potentially life-threatening situations."

According to the Royal Canadian Air Force website, the CC-130J Hercules tactical airlifter is used for a wide range of missions, including troop transport, tactical airlift, and aircrew training.

It can land and airdrop heavy loads of equipment, supplies and personnel into hostile environments. The J-model Hercules can operate from unpaved airstrips in active operations and carry up to 92 fully equipped paratroopers or 128 passengers.

The J-model is the newest Hercules model flown by the Royal Canadian Air Force.

Some RCAF aircraft are larger than many passenger airplanes and may appear to be flying lower than they actually are. During this exercise aircraft may operate as low as 200 feet above ground level, that's less than the length of a football field.

RCAF aircrew adheres to strict rules and regulations at all times to ensure safety. Members of the Royal Canadian Armed Forces are well-trained and there is no risk to public safety during this exercise.

"All efforts will be made to ensure that disruption to the community will be at a minimum," adds the release.