Originally Posted by
Galaxydriver
The proposal was for C-5Ms because the TF-39 would never get civilian certification. Having flown them, I think the reliability would be what is needed. Especially if we operate them and support them differentyly than the AF. The 2 big hurdles were getting USAF approval to take the A models (1966-70) being retired for conversion and the cost of getting a civilian certification. The AF thinks having them parked in the boneyard is a great source of spare parts so they are skeptical. As for the certification, Lockheed doesn't want to front the cost without firm orders and most operators want to see that they can do it first. Kind of a stalemate.
It doubt it will never happen. While Atlas will acquire aircraft to meet a customers needs; provided the demand is there, they won't do it for a single customer unless it's a long term deal that makes sense and they see sufficient possibilities to integrate it elsewhere. And for something like this, there are way too many variables that they could get screwed on.
The one thing you will find out about this management team is that they are unlike normal airlines...they think about the risks before committing to a project. They have and will walk away without blinking an eye. That's one of the reasons we've survived and thrived.