"The last F-15C was purchased in 1986, but a majority were delivered in the late 70's and early 80's. I am currently flying an F-16 that was delivered 22 years ago."
I can beat that. I got to fly a C-130 built in 1961. I also flew one with over 20,000 hours. Up until recently the newest C-130 I have been on was a 1966.
Don't get me wrong I hate to see anyone fly old planes. I wish we could all fly brand new stuff.
"I got to fly a C-130 built in 1961. I also flew one with over 20,000 hours. Up until recently the newest C-130 I have been on was a 1966."
When did you fly your C-130 built in 1961. And if you recently started flying C-130's newer than 1966, that would imply you got new equipment. How new? Also, 20,000 hours on an airlift airframe built for a life expectancy of 40,000 is different than a fighter built for 2000 hours that is now on its 5000th.
"I wish we could all fly brand new stuff."
I agree. But the only guys doing that right now are airlift guys.