C-118 Liftmaster

The C-118 Liftmaster was a long-range military transport aircraft developed by the American firm Douglas, based on the civilian DC-6 transport aircraft. Alongside civilian DC-6 production, 166 aircraft were built for the U.S. Air Force and U.S. Navy. The aircraft belonging to the Air Force were designated C-118A.

Presidential and VIP Service

The twenty-ninth DC-6 produced became President Truman’s personal aircraft. This was the VC-118 Independence, which featured a cabin for 24 passengers, or 12 berths for rest during night flights, and a workspace.

Military Designations and Wider Adoption

For the U.S. Navy, 61 R6D-1 aircraft and four R6D-1Z variants with VIP cabins were in operation. In 1962, their designations changed to C-118B and VC-118B, respectively. Other military services also ordered DC-6 aircraft, most of which had previously served as civilian models.

Technical Specifications

Modification	C-118A
Wingspan, m	35.81
Length, m	32.56
Height, m	8.74
Wing area, m2	135.92
Empty weight	23358
Maximum takeoff weight	48534
Internal fuel, l	20914
Engine type	4 Piston engines Pratt Whitney R-2800-52W
Power, hp	4 x 2500
Maximum speed, km/h	573
Cruising speed, km/h	504
Practical range, km	6184
Practical ceiling, m	8505
Crew, crew members	4
Payload	74 soldiers or 60 stretchers with attendants or 12247 kg of cargo

Image and diagram gallery of the C-118 Liftmaster

C-118 Liftmaster	C-118 Liftmaster
C-118 Liftmaster	C-118 Liftmaster
C-118 Liftmaster