just found out that Conrad Kalitta (owner of Kalitta Air) and Doug Kalitta (NHRA driver and CEO of Kalitta Charter ) are family friends... had no clue

anyone have any info on either one... i know they were having some problems at one time.. what were they? result?

and lastly, i kno that the cargo ops are in a 747, but how modern are the aircraft and how airworthy are they?

Airworthinessis in the eye of the beholder. Could be better, could be much worse. The 74's are old, but they do have strong parts support and mostly good mechanics. The smaller side is run by Doug and they have Lear's, Falcon's and 72's. Can't say how it is for those guys, but they do have to live near YIP>

Could be better, could be much worse. The 74's are old, but they do have strong parts support and mostly good mechanics. The smaller side is run by Doug flying freight,air ambulane and pax charter, they have Lear's, Falcon's and 72's. Can't say how it is for those guys, but they do have to live near YIP.

I heard their 747s are getting EFIS.

They already do - it's called CMS or Canadian Marconi System. Two EFIS tubes (on each side), FMS, with GPS updating. I've seen the setup and it's pretty darn good for such an old airplane. I truly am a proponent of moving map displays. It really does enhance situational awareness.

The EFIS is already installed. Electronic Flight Bag(Jepp) and Electronic Engine Instruments are forth coming. Kind of brings the old Classic up towards modern aviation. Still a fun/classey airplane to fly around the world in.

And get paid $hit while you do!

They have basically two divisions: one charter/corporate flying(falcons, lears etc) and the other flies heavy freight(747's etc). I think it was two years ago that one of their 47's actually LOST an engine in Lake Michigan(yes, it fell off).

LOL......I bet your fun to fly with!

Connie Kalitta is a notorious drag racer (ex racer) I suppose Doug is his son or brother. Does anyone know why Connie was banned from racing?