AUGUST 21, 2026 – A 37th Airlift Squadron aircrew flying a C-130J Super Hercules aircraft conducted a taxiway landing during a wing exercise at Ramstein Air Base, Germany, Aug. 18.
The event marked history as the first time an airplane has landed at Ramstein without using a runway.
The exercise provided an opportunity for aircrew and support personnel to validate alternate landing options in case if a runway was unavailable.
“This capability is more than just landing on a taxiway,” said Col. Matthew Wunderlich, 86th Operations Group commander. “It demonstrates our ability to adapt, to work together, and continue generating airpower when conditions change. This creativity and resiliency is essential to maintaining our readiness, increasing strategic options, and fulfilling the mission.”
Multiple units supported the exercise to ensure the operation was successful and conducted safely, including the 86th Security Forces Squadron, 86th Operations Support Squadron, 37th AS and 721st Aerial Port Squadron.
“Exercises like this allow our aircrew and support teams to build the experience and confidence needed to operate in a contingency environment,” said Capt. Ty Millsap, 86th OSS Chief of Wing Tactics. “It takes coordination across the installation to safely execute an exercise like this, and that coordination is what makes us ready for the unexpected.”
The exercise highlighted the importance of preparation and teamwork, strengthening the wing’s ability to respond, and validating its readiness for unexpected challenges.
Story by Senior Airman Jared Lovett
86th Airlift Wing