C-75 Stratoliner
The C-75 Stratoliner was a long-range transport aircraft designed for very important persons, built by the American firm Boeing. This aircraft represented the military transport version of the successful civilian medium-range passenger aircraft, the Boeing 307 Stratoliner. Its capacity and design made it ideal for special missions during times of conflict.
Military Service and Requisition
Aircraft belonging to TWA (Transcontinental & Western Air) were requisitioned by the US Army Air Forces in 1942, at which point they received the official designation C-75. Capable of accommodating 33 passengers and a crew of five, these aircraft were instrumental in transporting high-ranking civilian and military officials. Their primary role involved crucial transatlantic flights, ensuring the mobility of leaders during a critical period.
Over a span of just two and a half years, the C-75 aircraft completed more than 3,000 missions, demonstrating their reliability and the critical need for their services. After the war concluded, these planes were converted back for commercial use. They were returned to TWA, closing their military chapter and resuming their original function in civil aviation.
A Legacy of Wartime Air Travel
The C-75 Stratoliner stands as a testament to aeronautical engineering’s adaptability and the vital role it played during wartime. Its service not only facilitated the transport of key figures but also laid the groundwork for the development of future long-distance air transport. Its history intertwines civilian ingenuity with military demands, leaving an indelible mark on aviation history.
Technical Specifications
| Modification | S-75 |
| Wingspan, m | 32.61 |
| Length, m | 22.66 |
| Height, m | 6.34 |
| Wing area, m2 | 138.05 |
| Empty weight | 13608 |
| Normal takeoff weight | 19050 |
| Engine type | 4 Piston engines Wright GR-1820 Cyclone |
| Power, hp | 4 x 900 |
| Maximum speed, km/h | 396 |
| Cruising speed, km/h | 354 |
| Practical range, km | 3850 |
| Combat range, km | 1464 |
| Service ceiling, m | 7985 |
| Crew | 5 crew |
| Payload | maximum – 33 passengers, normally 17-22 passengers |
Image and diagram gallery of the C-75 Stratoliner
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