Yesterday, Austin residents may have been fortunate to see a rather unique sight – which was a KC-135 tanker refueling a group of A-10 jets in the air. Its immense size was a testament to its capabilities and elicited a sense of wonder among the onlookers.

The flight of military planes, captured on social media, sparked curiosity and prompted speculation about its presence in the city. While the exact reason for the aircraft’s flight remains unconfirmed, it is likely linked to military training exercises conducted at nearby bases. Military pilots routinely conduct these training flights to maintain their proficiency and readiness. In other words, while this sight is quite unusual, it’s also nothing to worry about and if you know the correct routes, they can become quite routine.

The flight of these jets was also documented on Flight Radar which showed the journey of the planes as they whizzed through Austin. The KC-135 is a military aircraft used by the United States Air Force. It is primarily used as an aerial refueling tanker, meaning that it can provide fuel to other aircraft in mid-air, allowing them to extend their range and endurance. The KC-135 has been in service since the 1950s and has been used in numerous conflicts and operations, including the Vietnam War, and the Gulf War while boasting a top speed of 600 mph.