"Glenfiddich" wrote

I'd HOPE that the USAF and ANG had planned for emergency refuelling
at all US airports with decent runways.

The USAF may have planned for it. But, pre-9/11, did that extend to the
United mechanic on the ground?
Is there a truck with the right fuel coupling available? Is the guy who's
'trained' available, or on evening shift?
'Hot' refuels are practiced with some regularity in the air force.

It could be done, but probably not on 5 minutes notice. 1/2 hour maybe. But
by then it's too late.

Pete