Transall C-160 Starting After 10 Years out of active service

At the Technik Museum Speyer, a former Luftwaffe Transall C-160 has returned to life after years exposed to the elements. The aircraft had long stood outdoors as a static exhibit, weathered but intact.

Museum teams recently reactivated its engines and onboard electronics, restoring hydraulic power to operate the rear ramp and doors. When the engines fired up, thick smoke poured from the exhaust, drawing attention from visitors.

The smoke was likely caused by preservation oil used to protect internal components during long storage. Such oil burns off quickly during initial engine runs.

Despite the successful ground activation, returning the aircraft to flight would require extensive structural inspection and overhaul. For now, the Transall remains restricted to ground operations, offering visitors a rare look at a transport aircraft running under its own power once again.