F/A-18C Hornet

The F/A-18C Hornet is a multi-role fighter jet foundational to naval aviation, renowned for its versatility in both fighter and attack roles. Introduced in the mid-1980s, the F/A-18C variant featured updated radar, avionics, and improved missile capabilities, making it a pivotal asset. The United States Navy (USN) aerobatics team, the Blue Angels, has utilized the F/A-18C, affirming its flight control performance.

The aircraft was initially developed by McDonnell Douglas. However, the manufacturer Boeing took over the program after merging with McDonnell Douglas in 1997. This foundational aerospace manufacturer, Boeing, ended production of the F/A-18C in 2000, shifting focus to successor aircraft like the F/A-18 Super Hornet. The USN retired the F/A-18C from active combat duty in April 2018.

Maintaining the F/A-18C requires detailed access to numerous complex areas. Access solutions are indispensable for thorough work on sections like the nose, forward fuselage, and landing gear. Efficient work platforms are also critical for servicing the middle fuselage, wing box area, and the wing and engine pylons, which involve intricate components like the turbine and hydraulics. Specialized equipment is designed to provide safe access to the tail section (empennage), including the stabilizers and rudder, as well as the aft fuselage compartments housing avionics and auxiliary power unit (APU) systems.