Lynden modernizes C-130 fleet with APU upgrades

Lynden Air Cargo has begun upgrading the APUs on its C-130 fleet, a clear sign the carrier plans to continue operating the rugged aircraft into the foreseeable future. Installing the Short-POD APU required FAA approval and was successfully completed on at least one aircraft, according to a statement from the carrier.

Over time, the ability of original gas turbine compressors and air turbine motors to produce pneumatic power degrades, and with these parts now out of production for the C-130, Lynden opted for the Short-POD APU kit from Kellstrom Defense. The modern APU offers increased reliability compared to the legacy system, which only supplied power while the aircraft was on the ground. The Short-POD offers quicker engine starts and can function while airborne, according to Lynden. The APU kit was installed by KF Aerospace.

Lynden’s five-unit C-130 fleet is utilized for scheduled flights intra-Alaska and for disaster relief and charter service around the globe. Lynden has previously deployed C-130Fs in other markets, including Papua New Guinea, Antarctica and Africa.

Looking beyond the C-130, manufactured by Lockheed Martin, a commercial successor is soon to be on its way. Earlier this year, the manufacturer told Cargo Facts the LM-100J was closing in on the final phases of Federal Aviation Administration-specific flight tests. An STC for the LM-100J is expected by the end of this year.

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