Military Airlift: Status of the C-17 Development Program

GAO discussed the status of the C-17 aircraft program. GAO noted that: (1) the Air Force and the contractor's cost and schedule estimates have been unduly optimistic; (2) in April 1992, the contractor's productivity had improved with each successive aircraft, but the rate of improvement did not increase; (3) the contractor will deliver 7 aircraft 3 to 6 months behind schedule; (4) the amount of funding obligated to the contractor prior to award has significantly increased; (5) the Air Force has delayed the C-17 flight test program because of poor flight test efficiency and late delivery of test aircraft; and (6) several technical problems with the C-17 program may result in decreased aircraft performance, increased program cost, and extended program schedules.