What type of aircraft does the RAF predominantly use for air transport?

The A400M Atlas is the aircraft predominantly used by the RAF for air transport due to its versatile capabilities in handling both cargo and personnel movement. This aircraft is designed to operate in various environments, including short and unpaved airstrips, making it particularly suited for tactical as well as strategic airlift missions. It can carry oversized and heavy loads, which enhances its operational flexibility within military operations.

Although the C17 Globemaster, Hercules C-130, and A330 Voyager are also important aircraft in the RAF's air transport fleet, they serve specific roles that complement the A400M's capabilities. The C17 is primarily used for strategic airlift of large payloads, suited for longer-range missions. The Hercules C-130 has been a workhorse for the RAF for many years, known for its capability to operate in smaller airfields, but it is being gradually phased out in favor of updated models like the A400M. The A330 Voyager focuses primarily on air-to-air refueling and passenger transport, not as a dedicated cargo transport like the Atlas. Therefore, the A400M Atlas stands out as the primary aircraft for a wide range of air transport missions in the modern RAF.