My Reserve Unit at Andrews had the Christchurch/McMurdo run for years while we had the "Speckled Trout" and "Slate Gray" painted C-141s. The trips lasted between ten days and two weeks, depending on the weather "Down Under".
The C-141 was a dog, maintenance-wise. Very labor intensive. Yet, incredibly versatile. And when dialed in just right, could fly for weeks.
Originally, the plane was never made to handle passengers. Just cargo. LOTS of cargo!
Which explains the floor heating, instead of ducted ceiling air, ala C-130s. The idea of passengers and paratroops was an afterthought.
Which brought about the plane being lengthened and troop door added to either side, behind the main landing gear pods. Though the 141 had to drop to nearly stall speed for Mass Troop Drops through the rear Petal and Troop Doors.
As the 141 proved itself adept at getting troops into harm's way. With the addition of Mid-Air Refueling. It also evolved into one of the great Aero-Med Evac aircraft ever created. Able to carry up to 48 Litter patients and twelve ambulatory patients in Airliner seats. Plus Monitoring and Emergency equpment, and up to another dozen Areo-Med Technicians and Doctors. Which made for a crowded flight.
The C-141 carved itself niches throughout the AF Mission. It's going to be hard to find another plane to do so much so well!
Jack.
It's a shame they're going for scrap. I could turn one into a cafe.
Well, I'll miss the "old" Starlifter. I always enjoyed jumping (stepping) out of them.