FOX10 News Reporter rides C-130 cargo plane Fat Albert

PENSACOLA, Fla. (WALA) - FOX10 News Reporter John Rogers had a chance to ride Fat Albert.

This is the C-130 cargo plane that kicks off the Blue Angels performance at air shows.

The C-130 is used by the Marines to deliver supplies and personnel. It also is used for aerial refueling.

But Fat Albert’s job is to entertain.

During the exhilarating 10 minute flight, there were moments where the passengers were completely weightless, then other moments when they were pulling 2 G’s.

Fat Albert does not provide the same amount of comfort you would find on an airliner.

During takeoff, Fat Albert tilts its nose 45 degrees. For comparison, the common airplane takes off at 3 degrees, so this was a steep climb!

While in the air, Fat Albert made sharp turns, and performed a ‘flat pass.’

This is when Fat Albert traveled 375 miles per hour just 50 feet off the ground.

Officials say in combat missions, this allows C-130s to avoid radar detection.

At the end of the 10 minute journey, Fat Albert simulates a landing in a hostile environment.

The cargo plane is designed for a short landing.

So after quickly descending towards the runway, Fat Albert landed with a thud and stopped within 1000 feet!

That’s not a lot of distance for an airplane!

The runway was filled with tire tracks and there was a strong aroma of burnt rubber.

But it was a thrilling end to a fun flight.

Fox10 News reporter John Rogers managed to avoid losing his lunch. However, a young Marine sitting near him wasn’t so lucky.