Jump to content

Douglas C-47 Skytrain: Difference between revisions

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Browse history interactively
← Previous edit
Content deleted Content added
VisualWikitext
→Related content: add sequence
 
(964 intermediate revisions by more than 100 users not shown)
Line 1: Line 1:
{{short description|Military transport aircraft derived from DC-3}}
[[image:DSC00934.jpg|350px|right|thumb|C-47A USAAF Serial #43-48052]]
{{Redirect|C-47}}
The [[Douglas Aircraft Company|Douglas]] '''C-47 Skytrain''' was a military transport that was developed from the [[Douglas DC-3]] airliner.
{{Redirect|R4D|the rocket engine|R-4D}}
{{Use American English|date=November 2024}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=October 2024}}
<!-- This article is a part of [[Wikipedia:WikiProject Aircraft]]. Please see [[Wikipedia:WikiProject Aircraft/page content]] for recommended layout. -->
{{Infobox aircraft
|name= C-47 Skytrain / Dakota <br />C-53 Skytrooper
|image= C47 Skytrain - Duxford D-Day Show 2014 (cropped).jpg
|caption= C-47 ''43-30652 "Whiskey 7"'' at Duxford D-Day Show 2014
|type= [[Military transport aircraft]]
|national_origin= [[United States]]
|manufacturer=[[Douglas Aircraft Company]]
|designer=
|first_flight={{Start date|df=yes|1941|12|23}}<ref>[http://www.boeing.com/history/products/c-47-skytrain.page C-47 Skytrain Military Transport Historical Snapshot] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201028191922/https://www.boeing.com/history/products/c-47-skytrain.page |date=2020-10-28 }}. ''Boeing''. Retrieved: 29 June 2017.</ref>
|introduction=
|retired=
|status=In service
|primary_user= [[United States Army Air Forces]]
|more_users= [[Royal Air Force]]<br />[[United States Navy]]<br />[[Royal Canadian Air Force]]<br />[[#Operators|See operators]]
|produced=<!--years in production, e.g. 1970–1999, still in active use but no longer built-->
|number_built=10,174
|unit cost=
|developed_from = [[Douglas DC-3]]
|variants = [[Douglas XCG-17]] <br /> [[Douglas AC-47 Spooky]] <br /> [[Douglas R4D-8]]
|developed_into=
}}


The '''Douglas C-47 Skytrain''' or '''Dakota''' ([[Royal Air Force|RAF]] designation) is a [[airlift|military transport aircraft]] developed from the civilian [[Douglas DC-3]] airliner. It was used extensively by the [[Allies of World War II|Allies]] during [[World War II]]. During the war the C-47 was used for [[Military transport aircraft|troop transport]], [[Air cargo|cargo]], [[paratrooper]], for towing [[Military glider|gliders]] and military cargo parachute drops. The C-47 remained in front-line service with various military operators for many years.<ref name="Parker, Dana T. pp. 13, 35">Parker 2013, pp. 13, 35, 37, 39, 45–47.</ref> It was produced in approximately triple the numbers as the larger, much heavier payload [[Curtiss C-46 Commando]], which filled a similar role for the U.S. military.
==History==


Approximately 100 countries' armed forces have operated the C-47 with over 60 variants of the aircraft produced. As with the civilian DC-3, the C-47 remains in service in the present day, over 80 years after the type's introduction.
During [[World War II]], the armed forces of many countries used the C-47 and modified DC-3s for the transport of troops, cargo and wounded. Over 10,000 aircraft were produced in [[Long Beach, California|Long Beach]] and [[Santa Monica, California]] and [[Oklahoma City, Oklahoma]]. The C-47 was vital to the success of many [[Allied]] campaigns, in particular those in the jungles of [[New Guinea]] and [[Burma]] where the C-47 (and its naval version, the R4D) alone made it possible for Allied troops to counter the mobility of the light-travelling Japanese army. In Europe, the C-47 and a specialized paratroop variant, the '''C-53 Skytrooper''', were used in vast numbers in the later stages of the war, particularly to tow [[gliders]] and drop paratroops. In the Pacific, with careful use of the island landing strips of the Pacific Ocean, C-47s were even used for ferrying soldiers serving in the Pacific theater back to the US.


==Design and development==
C-47s in British and Commonwealth service took the name '''Dakota'''. The C-47 also earned the nickname "Gooney Bird" during the European theater of operations.
The C-47 differed from the civilian DC-3 by way of numerous modifications, including being fitted with a cargo door, hoist attachment and strengthened floor - along with a shortened tail cone for [[Military glider|glider-towing]] shackles, and an [[Astrodome (aeronautics)|astrodome]] in the cabin roof.<ref name="Wilson">Wilson, Stewart. ''Aircraft of WWII''. Fyshwick, ACT, Australia: Aerospace Publications Pty Ltd., 1998. {{ISBN|1-875671-35-8}}.</ref><ref>Parker 2013, pp. 37, 39, 45-47.</ref>


During World War II, the armed forces of many countries used the C-47 and modified DC-3s for the transport of troops, cargo, and wounded. The U.S. naval designation was R4D. More than 10,000 aircraft were produced in [[Long Beach, California|Long Beach]] and [[Santa Monica, California]], and [[Oklahoma City, Oklahoma]]. Between March 1943 and August 1945, the Oklahoma City plant produced 5,354 C-47s.<ref name="Parker, Dana T. pp. 13, 35"/><ref>Herman 2012, pp. 202-203, 227.</ref>
After World War II the U.S. Navy also structurally modified a number of the early Navy R4D aircraft and re-designated the modified aircraft as '''R4D-8'''. The Air Force also continued to use the C-47 for various roles, including the [[AC-47 Spooky|AC-47]] gunships - code named 'Puff the Magic Dragon' or 'Spooky' - used during the [[Vietnam War]].

The specialized C-53 ''Skytrooper'' troop transport started production in October 1941 at Douglas Aircraft's Santa Monica plant. It lacked the cargo door, hoist attachment, and reinforced floor of the C-47. Only 380 aircraft were produced in all because the C-47 was found to be more versatile.

===Super DC-3 (R4D-8)===
{{main|Douglas R4D-8}}
[[File:C-117D Super Dakotas US Navy 1967.jpg|thumb|U.S. Navy C-117Ds at [[RAF Mildenhall]] in 1967]]

Large numbers of DC-3s and surplus C-47s were in commercial use in the United States in the 1940s. In response to proposed changes to the [[Federal Aviation Regulations|Civil Air Regulations]] airworthiness requirements that would limit the continuing use of these aircraft, Douglas offered a late-1940s DC-3 conversion to improve takeoff and single-engine performance. This new model, the DC-3S or "Super DC-3", was 39 in (0.99 m) longer. It allowed 30 passengers to be carried, with increased speed to compete with newer airliners. The rearward shift in the center of gravity led to larger tail surfaces and new outer, swept-back wings. More powerful engines were installed along with shorter, jet ejection-type exhaust stacks. These were either 1,475&nbsp;hp (1,100&nbsp;kW) [[Wright R-1820]] Cyclones or 1,450&nbsp;hp (1,081&nbsp;kW) [[Pratt & Whitney R-2000 Twin Wasp]]s in larger engine nacelles. Minor changes included wheel-well doors, a partially retractable tailwheel, flush rivets, and low-drag antenna. These all contributed to an increased top speed of {{convert|250|mph|km/h kn|abbr=on}}. With over 75% of the original DC-3/C-47 configuration changed, the modified design was virtually a new aircraft.<ref>[http://www.dc3history.org/dc3super.html "Super DC-3"] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170721153357/http://www.dc3history.org/dc3super.html |date=2017-07-21 }}. dc3history.org. Retrieved 23 June 2010.</ref> The first DC-3S made its maiden flight on 23 June 1949.<ref name="Frnc Doug p464-5">Francillon 1979, pp. 464–465.</ref>

The changes fully met the new FAR 4B airworthiness requirements, with significantly improved performance. However, little interest was expressed by commercial operators in the DC-3S. It was too expensive for the smaller operators that were its main target; only three were sold to [[Capital Airlines (United States)|Capital Airlines]]. The U.S. Navy and U.S. Marine Corps had 100 of their R4D aircraft modified to Super DC-3 standards as the R4D-8, later redesignated the C-117D.<ref name="Frnc Doug p466-7">Francillon 1979, pp. 466–467.</ref>

==Operational history==
===World War II===
[[File:US Army Pathfinders June 1944.jpg|thumb|[[Pathfinders (military)|U.S. Army Pathfinders]] and [[United States Army Air Force|USAAF]] flight crew prior to [[D-Day]], June 1944, in front of a C-47 Skytrain at [[RAF North Witham]]]]
The C-47 was vital to the success of many Allied campaigns, in particular, those at [[Battle of Guadalcanal|Guadalcanal]] and in the jungles of [[New Guinea]] and [[Burma Campaign|Burma]], where the C-47 and its naval version, the R4D, made it possible for Allied troops to counter the mobility of the light-traveling Japanese Army. C-47s were used to airlift supplies to the encircled American forces during the [[Battle of Bastogne]] in Belgium. Possibly its most influential role in military aviation, however, was flying "[[The Hump]]" from India into China. The expertise gained flying "The Hump" was later used in the [[Berlin Airlift]], in which the C-47 played a major role until the aircraft were replaced by [[Douglas C-54 Skymaster]]s.{{Citation needed|date=February 2018}}

In Europe, the C-47 and a specialized [[Paratrooper|paratroop]] variant, the C-53 Skytrooper, were used in vast numbers in the later stages of the war, particularly to tow [[military glider|gliders]] and drop paratroops. During the [[Allied invasion of Sicily|invasion of Sicily]] in July 1943, C-47s dropped 4,381 Allied paratroops. More than 50,000 paratroops were dropped by C-47s during the first few days of the [[D-Day]] campaign also known as the [[invasion of Normandy]], France, in June 1944.<ref>Cacutt, Len. "The World's Greatest Aircraft," Exeter Books, New York, NY, 1988. {{ISBN|0-7917-0011-9}}.</ref> In the [[Pacific War]], with careful use of the island landing strips of the Pacific Ocean, C-47s were used for ferrying soldiers serving in the Pacific theater back to the United States.

About 2,000 C-47s (received under [[Lend-Lease]]) in British and Commonwealth service [[British military aircraft designation systems|took the name "Dakota"]], possibly inspired by the acronym "DACoTA" for Douglas Aircraft Company Transport Aircraft.<ref>[http://www.boeing.com/history/products/c-47-skytrain.page "History: Douglas C-47 Skytrain Military Transport"] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201028191922/https://www.boeing.com/history/products/c-47-skytrain.page |date=2020-10-28 }}. Boeing. Retrieved: 14 July 2015.</ref>

The C-47 also earned the informal nickname "[[Albatross|gooney bird]]" in the European theatre of operations.<ref name="Proceedings">O'Rourke, G.G, CAPT USN. "Of Hosenoses, Stoofs, and Lefthanded Spads". ''United States Naval Institute Proceedings'', July 1968.</ref> Other sources<ref>''C-47/R4D Skytrain units of the Pacific and CBI'', David Isby, Osprey Combat Aircraft #66, Osprey Publishing Limited, 2007</ref> attribute this name to the first aircraft, a USMC R2D—the military version of the DC-2—being the first aircraft to land on Midway Island, previously home to the long-winged albatross known as the gooney bird which was native to Midway.

===Postwar era===
[[File:C-47s at Tempelhof Airport Berlin 1948.jpg|thumb|C-47s unloading at [[Tempelhof Airport]] during the [[Berlin Blockade|Berlin Airlift]]]]
The [[United States Air Force]]'s [[Strategic Air Command]] had Skytrains in service from 1946 to 1967. The US Air Force's [[6th Special Operations Squadron]] was flying the C-47 until 2008.

[[File:TC-47D SN 44-76502.jpg|thumb|TC-47D at [[McChord AFB]]]]
With all of their aircraft and pilots having been part of the Indian Air Force prior to independence, both the [[Indian Air Force]] and [[Pakistan Air Force]] used C-47s to transport supplies to their soldiers fighting in the [[Indo-Pakistan War of 1947]].

After World War II, thousands of surplus C-47s were converted to civilian airline use, some remaining in operation [[Buffalo Airways#Fleet|in 2012]], as well as being used as private aircraft.

===Vietnam War===
Several C-47 variants were used in the [[Vietnam War]] by the United States Air Force, including three advanced electronic-warfare variations, which sometimes were called "electric gooneys" designated EC-47N, EC-47P, or EC-47Q depending on the engine used. In addition, HC-47s were used by the 9th Special Operations Squadron to conduct psychological warfare operations over South Vietnam and Laos. Miami Air International, Miami International Airport was a USAF military depot used to convert the commercial DC-3s/C-47s into military use. They came in as commercial aircraft purchased from third-world airlines and were completely stripped, rebuilt, and reconditioned. Long-range fuel tanks were installed, along with upgraded avionics and gun mounts. They left as first-rate military aircraft headed for combat in Vietnam in a variety of missions. {{#tag:ref|Air International out of Miami International Airport was a military depot used by the air force to convert the DC-3s into military use.<ref>[http://www.ec47.com/tnhist.htm "Chronological History of the EC-47's Location by Tail Number."] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201008231847/http://www.ec47.com/tnhist.htm |date=2020-10-08 }} ''ec47.com''. Retrieved: 7 April 2009.</ref>|group=Note}} EC-47s were also operated by the Vietnamese, Laotian, and Cambodian Air Forces.<ref>Rickard, J. [http://www.historyofwar.org/articles/weapons_douglas_EC-47N.html "Douglas EC-47N"] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200423141309/http://www.historyofwar.org/articles/weapons_douglas_EC-47N.html |date=2020-04-23 }}. historyofwar.org, 12 November 2008. Retrieved: 7 April 2009.</ref> A gunship variation, using three 7.62&nbsp;mm miniguns, designated [[AC-47 Spooky|AC-47 "Spooky"]], often nicknamed "[[Puff the magic dragon]]", also was deployed.<ref name="Proceedings"/>


==Variants==
==Variants==
{{Main|List of Douglas DC-3 family variants}}
===C-47===
[[File:C-47 in RCAF in livery. Operated by the RAF in England during WWII ..jpg|thumb|C-47 in RCAF livery, still flying today. Operated by the RAF in England during WWII. FZ692 participated in two major airborne operations, Normandy and the Rhine Crossing.]]
Initial military version of DC-3.
[[File:Two USAAF C-47A Skytrains.jpg|thumb|Paratroop C-47, 12th Air Force Troop Carrier Wing, invasion of southern France, 15 August 1944]]
===C-47A===
[[File:C-47inside.jpg|thumb|Interior view of Douglas C-47, [[Hendon]] Aerodrome, [[England]]]]
24 volt electrical system replacing the 12 volt of the C-47.
[[File:6th Special Operations Squadron and aircraft.jpg|thumb|Aircraft of the [[6th Special Operations Squadron]] including a turboprop C-47 (Basler BT-67) in use by the U.S. Air Force, {{Circa|2005}}]]
===C-47B===
[[File:Douglas C-47's.jpg|thumb|Douglas C-47 lineup at Willow Run, Michigan Airshow, August 2017]]
R-1830-90 engines with superchargers and extra fuel capacity to cover the [[China]]-[[Burma]]-[[India]] routes
[[File:C-47B Skytrain -serial 43-49942 Bluebonnet Belle-26Oct2008.jpg|thumb|C-47B Skytrain ''43-49942'']]
===C-47D===
[[File:douglas c47-a skytrain n1944a cotswoldairshow 2010 arp.jpg|thumb|A former USAAF C-47A Skytrain which flew from a base in Devon, England, during the [[D-Day]] Normandy invasion and shows "[[invasion stripes]]" on her wings and fuselage ]]
C-47B with superchargers removed post war.
[[File:Douglas C-53 'N86584' (13956017704).jpg|thumb|Douglas C-53 Skytrooper, c/n 4935, operated by a [[skydiving]] service at [[Eloy, Arizona]]]]
===C-48 to C-52===
[[File:Mesa-Arizona Commemorative Air Force Museum-Douglas C-47 Skytrain Dakota “Old Number 30”-1.jpg|thumb|Douglas C-47A Skytrain ''Old Number 30'']]
various DC-3's taken into military service.
[[File:Mesa-Arizona Commemorative Air Force Museum-Douglas C-47 Skytrain Dakota “Old Number 30”-3.jpg|thumb|C-47 Skytrain cockpit]]
===C-53===
[[File:DOUGLAS C-47A - SKYTRAIN.jpg|thumb|Douglas C-47A Skytrain of the Venezuelan Air Force]]
US Army passenger version of the C-47.


;C-47
==Specifications==
:Initial military version of the DC-3 had four crew (pilot, co-pilot, navigator, and radio operator) and seats for 27 troops alongside the fuselage interior. "Aerial Ambulances" fitted for casualty evacuation could carry 18 stretcher cases and a medical crew of three; 965 built (including 12 for the United States Navy as R4D-1).
;{{visible anchor|C-47A}}
:C-47 with a 24-volt electrical system, 5,254 built including USN aircraft designated R4D-5
;RC-47A
:C-47A equipped for photographic reconnaissance and ELINT missions
;SC-47A
:C-47A equipped for Search Air Rescue; redesignated '''HC-47A''' in 1962
;VC-47A
:C-47A equipped for VIP transport role
;C-47B
:Powered by R-1830-90 engines with two-speed superchargers (better altitude performance) to cover the [[China]]-[[Burma]]-[[India]] routes, 3,364 built
;VC-47B
:C-47B equipped for VIP transport role
;XC-47C
:C-47 tested with Edo Model 78 floats for possible use as a seaplane<ref>[https://books.google.com/books?id=Jt8DAAAAMBAJ&dq=popular+mechanics+July+1932+airplane&pg=PA19 "Aviation in Long Pants" (photo of XC-47C).] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230909121532/https://books.google.com/books?id=Jt8DAAAAMBAJ&dq=popular+mechanics+July+1932+airplane&pg=PA19 |date=2023-09-09 }} ''[[Popular Mechanics]]'', July 1944.</ref><ref>[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=syCb1b24ZMU "DC-3s On Floats."] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201027160446/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=syCb1b24ZMU |date=2020-10-27 }} ''[[YouTube]]'', 8 November 2008. Note: first part has rare World War II film footage and narration by project manager for the XC-47C.</ref>
;C-47D
:C-47B with second speed (high blower) of engine supercharger disabled or removed after the war
;[[AC-47 Spooky|AC-47D ''Spooky'']]
:Gunship aircraft with three side-firing .30&nbsp;in (7.62&nbsp;mm) [[Minigun]] machine guns
;EC-47D
:C-47D with equipment for the Electronics Calibration, of which 26 were so converted by Hayes in 1953; prior to 1962 was designated '''AC-47D'''
;NC-47D
:C-47D modified for test roles
;RC-47D
:C-47D equipped for photographic reconnaissance and ELINT missions
;SC-47D
:C-47D equipped for Search Air Rescue; redesignated '''HC-47D''' in 1962
;VC-47D
:C-47D equipped for VIP transport role
;C-47E
:Modified cargo variant with space for 27–28 passengers or 18–24 litters
;C-47F
:YC-129 redesignated, Super DC-3 prototype for evaluation by USAF later passed to USN as '''XR4D-8'''
;C-47L/M
:C-47H/Js equipped for the support of American Legation United States Naval Attache (ALUSNA) and Military Assistance Advisory Group (MAAG) missions
;EC-47N/P/Q
:C-47A and D aircraft modified for ELINT/ARDF mission, N and P differ in radio bands covered, while Q replaces analog equipment found on the N and P with a digital suite, redesigned antenna equipment and uprated engines
;C-47R
:One C-47M modified for high altitude work, specifically for missions in Ecuador
;C-53 Skytrooper
:Troop transport version of the C-47 that lacked the reinforced cargo floor, large cargo door, and hoist attachment of the C-47 ''Skytrain''. It was dedicated for the troop transport role and could carry 28 passengers in fixed metal seats arranged in rows in the former cargo space; 221 built.
;XC-53A Skytrooper
:One testbed aircraft modified in March 1942 with full-span slotted flaps and hot-air leading edge de-icing. Converted to C-53 standard in 1949 and sold as surplus.
;C-53B Skytrooper
:Winterized and long-range Arctic version of the C-53 with extra fuel tanks in the fuselage and separate navigator's astrodome station for celestial navigation; eight built.
;C-53C Skytrooper
:C-53 with larger port-side access door; 17 built.
;C-53D Skytrooper
:C-53C with 24V DC electrical system and its 28 seats attached to the sides of the fuselage; 159 built.
;C-117A Skytrooper
:C-47B with 24-seat airline-type interior for staff transport use, 16 built.
;VC-117A
:Three redesignated C-117s used in the VIP role
;SC-117A
:One C-117C converted for air-sea rescue
;C-117B/VC-117B
:High-altitude two-speed superchargers replaced by one-speed superchargers, one built and conversions from C-117As all later '''VC-117B'''
;[[Douglas R4D-8/C-117D|C-117D]]
:USN/USMC R4D-8 redesignated C-117D in 1962.
;LC-117D
:USN/USMC R4D-8L redesignated LC-117D in 1962.
;TC-117D
:USN/USMC R4D-8T redesignated TC-117D in 1962.
;VC-117D
:USN R4D-8Z redesignated VC-117D in 1962.
;[[Douglas R4D-8/C-117D|YC-129]]
:Super DC-3 prototype for evaluation by USAF redesignated C-47F and later passed to USN as '''XR4D-8'''. [[Wright R-1820]] engines uprated to 1425 hp.
;CC-129
:Canadian Forces designation for the C-47 (post-1970)
;[[Douglas XCG-17|XCG-17]]
:One C-47 tested as a 40-seat troop glider with engines removed and faired over
;R4D-1 Skytrain
:USN/USMC version of the C-47
;R4D-3
:Twenty C-53Cs transferred to USN
;R4D-5
:C-47A variant 24-volt electrical system replacing the 12-volt of the C-47; redesignated '''C-47H''' in 1962, 238 transferred from USAF
;R4D-5L
:R4D-5 for use in Antarctica. Redesignated '''LC-47H''' in 1962. Photos of this type show the removal of underslung engine oil coolers typical of the R-1830 engine installation; apparently not needed in the cold polar regions.
;R4D-5Q
:R4D-5 for use as special ECM trainer. Redesignated '''EC-47H''' in 1962
;R4D-5R
:R4D-5 for use as a personnel transport for 21 passengers and as a trainer aircraft; redesignated '''TC-47H''' in 1962
;R4D-5S
:R4D-5 for use as a special ASW trainer; redesignated '''SC-47H''' in 1962
;R4D-5Z
:R4D-5 for use as a VIP transport; redesignated '''VC-47H''' in 1962
[[File:JMSDF R4D-6Q(9023) right front view at Kanoya Naval Air Base Museum April 29, 2017 02.jpg|thumb|JMSDF R4D-6Q]]
[[File:Douglas R4D-8.jpg|thumb|United States Navy R4D-8]]
;R4D-6
::157 C-47Bs transferred to USN; redesignated '''C-47J''' in 1962
;R4D-6L, Q, R, S, and Z
:Variants as the R4D-5 series; redesignated '''LC-47J''', '''EC-47J''', '''TC-47J''', '''SC-47J''', and '''VC-47J''' respectively in 1962
;R4D-7
:44 TC-47Bs transferred from USAF for use as a navigational trainer; redesignated '''TC-47K''' in 1962
;[[Douglas R4D-8/C-117D|R4D-8]]
:R4D-5 and R4D-6 remanufactured aircraft with stretched fuselage, [[Wright R-1820]] engines, fitted with modified wings and redesigned tail surfaces; redesignated C-117D in 1962
;R4D-8L
:R4D-8 converted for Antarctic use, redesignated '''LC-117D''' in 1962
;R4D-8T
:R4D-8 converted as crew trainers, redesignated '''TC-117D''' in 1962
;R4D-8Z
:R4D-8 converted as a staff transport, redesignated '''VC-117D''' in 1962
;C-47TP "Turbo Dak"
:Refit with two Pratt & Whitney Canada [[Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6|PT6A-67R]] [[turboprop]]s and fuselage stretch for the South African Air Force
;[[Basler BT-67]]
:C-47 conversion with a stretched fuselage, strengthened structure, modern avionics, and powered by two Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6A-67R turboprops


===Specifications (C-47B)===
===RAF designations===
[[File:c-47b dakota g-ampy arp.jpg|thumb|A Dakota IV in RAF Transport Command colors, owned by the [[Classic Air Force]], operating out of [[Coventry Airport]]]]
====General characteristics====
* '''Crew:''' 3
* '''Capacity:''' 28 troops or 6,000 lbs. (2,700 kg) of cargo
* '''Length:''' 63 ft 9 in (19.43 m)
* '''Wingspan:''' 95 ft 6 in (29.11 m)
* '''Height:''' 17 ft (5.18 m)
* '''Wing area:''' 987 ft² (91.70 m²)
* '''Empty:''' 18,135 lb (8,225 kg)
* '''Loaded:''' 26,000 lb (11,800 kg)
* '''Maximum takeoff:''' 31,000 lb (14,100 kg)
* '''Powerplant:''' 2 × [[Pratt & Whitney R-1830|Pratt & Whitney Twin Wasp R-1830-90C]] 14-cylinder radials with 1,200 hp (895 kW) each


;Dakota I
====Performance====
:RAF designation for the C-47 and R4D-1.
* '''Maximum speed:''' 224 mph (360 km/h)
;Dakota II
* '''Cruising speed:''' 160 mph (257 km/h)
:RAF designation for nine C-53 Skytroopers received under the lend lease scheme. Unlike the majority of RAF Dakotas, these aircraft were therefore dedicated troop transports, lacking the wide cargo doors and reinforced floor of the C-47.
* '''Range:''' 1,600 miles (2,575 km)
;Dakota III
* '''Service ceiling:''' 26,400 ft (8.045 m)
:RAF designation for the C-47A.
* '''Rate of climb:''' 10,000 ft/min (3,050 m/min)
;Dakota IV
* '''Wing loading:''' 26.3 lb/ft² (128.6 kg/m²)
:RAF designation for the C-47B.
* '''Power loading:''' 10.8 lbs/hp (6.59 kg/kW)
;Airspeed AS.61
:Projected conversion of Dakota I aircraft by [[Airspeed Ltd.|Airspeed]]. None built.
;Airspeed AS.62
:Projected conversion of Dakota II aircraft by Airspeed. None built.
;Airspeed AS.63
:Projected conversion of Dakota III aircraft by Airspeed. None built.
;BEA Pionair/Dart-Dakota
:Conversion of Dakota to [[Rolls-Royce Dart]] power and used by [[British European Airways|BEA]] to prove turboprop engines prior to entry into service of [[Vickers Viscount]].<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.flightglobal.com/pdfarchive/view/1952/1952%20-%203204.html |title=1952 &#124; 3204 &#124; Flight Archive |publisher=Flightglobal.com |date=1951-08-15 |access-date=2018-06-27 |archive-date=2017-12-22 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171222053207/https://www.flightglobal.com/pdfarchive/view/1952/1952%20-%203204.html |url-status=live }}</ref>


===Aftermarket conversions===
==Units using the C-47 or Militarized DC-3==
{{main|List of Douglas DC-3 family variants#Conversions}}


==Operators==
=== United States Army Air Force ===
[[File:SAAF C-47ATP 6840 (5) (6929086921).jpg|thumb|South African Air Force C-47TP "Turbo Dak"]]


[[File:RTAF Basler BT-67.JPG|thumb|A Royal Thai Air Force Basler BT-67 (C-47 conversion with Pratt & Whitney turboprops and stretched fuselage)]]


[[File:A Douglas C-47 Skytrain (Dakota) of the Indian Air Force.jpg|thumb|The IAF's heritage aircraft, Douglas C-47 Skytrain (Dakota), during the Republic Day Flypast 2024.]]
=== Royal Air Force ===


*Dakota I - C-47
*Dakota II - C-53
*Dakota III - C-47A
*Dakota IV - C-47B


{{See also|List of Douglas C-47 Skytrain operators}}


{{Div col|colwidth=18em}}
* [[No. 10 Squadron RAF|No. 10 Squadron]] - [[No. 18 Squadron RAF|No. 18 Squadron]] - [[No. 21 Squadron RAF|No. 21 Squadron]]
* {{ARG}}
* [[No. 24 Squadron RAF|No. 24 Squadron]] - [[No. 27 Squadron RAF|No. 27 Squadron]] - [[No. 30 Squadron RAF|No. 30 Squadron]]
* {{AUS}}
* [[No. 31 Squadron RAF|No. 31 Squadron]] - [[No. 46 Squadron RAF|No. 46 Squadron]] - [[No. 48 Squadron RAF|No. 48 Squadron]]
* {{BEL}}
* [[No. 52 Squadron RAF|No. 52 Squadron]] - [[No. 53 Squadron RAF|No. 53 Squadron]] - [[No. 62 Squadron RAF|No. 62 Squadron]]
* {{BEN}}
* [[No. 70 Squadron RAF|No. 70 Squadron]] - [[No. 76 Squadron RAF|No. 76 Squadron]] - [[No. 77 Squadron RAF|No. 77 Squadron]]
* {{Flag|Biafra}}
* [[No. 78 Squadron RAF|No. 78 Squadron]] - [[No. 96 Squadron RAF|No. 96 Squadron]] - [[No. 110 Squadron RAF|No. 110 Squadron]]
* {{BAN}}
* [[No. 113 Squadron RAF|No. 113 Squadron]] - [[No. 114 Squadron RAF|No. 114 Squadron]] - [[No. 117 Squadron RAF|No. 117 Squadron]]
* {{BOL}}
* [[No. 147 Squadron RAF|No. 147 Squadron]] - [[No. 167 Squadron RAF|No. 167 Squadron]] - [[No. 187 Squadron RAF|No. 187 Squadron]]
* {{BRA}}
* [[No. 194 Squadron RAF|No. 194 Squadron]] - [[No. 204 Squadron RAF|No. 204 Squadron]] - [[No. 206 Squadron RAF|No. 206 Squadron]]
* {{BIR}}
* [[No. 209 Squadron RAF|No. 209 Squadron]] - [[No. 215 Squadron RAF|No. 215 Squadron]] - [[No. 216 Squadron RAF|No. 216 Squadron]]
* {{CAM}}
* [[No. 231 Squadron RAF|No. 231 Squadron]] - [[No. 233 Squadron RAF|No. 233 Squadron]] - [[No. 238 Squadron RAF|No. 238 Squadron]]
* {{CAN}}<ref>[http://www.airforce.forces.gc.ca/v2/equip/hst/dakota-eng.asp "Douglas DC-3 (CC-129) Dakota."] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110611201610/http://www.airforce.forces.gc.ca/v2/equip/hst/dakota-eng.asp |date=2011-06-11 }} ''DND - Canada's Air Force''. Retrieved: 14 October 2009.</ref>
* [[No. 243 Squadron RAF|No. 243 Squadron]] - [[No. 267 Squadron RAF|No. 267 Squadron]] - [[No. 271 Squadron RAF|No. 271 Squadron]]
* {{CHA}}
* [[No. 353 Squadron RAF|No. 353 Squadron]] - [[No. 357 Squadron RAF|No. 357 Squadron]] - [[No. 435 Squadron RCAF|No. 435 Squadron (RCAF)]]
* {{CHI}}
* [[No. 436 Squadron RCAF|No. 436 Squadron (RCAF)]] - [[No. 437 Squadron RCAF|No. 437 Squadron (RCAF)]] - [[No. 511 Squadron RAF|No. 511 Squadron]]
* {{CHN}}
* [[No. 512 Squadron RAF|No. 512 Squadron]] - [[No. 525 Squadron RAF|No. 525 Squadron]] - [[No. 575 Squadron RAF|No. 575 Squadron]]
* {{COL}}
* [[No. 620 Squadron RAF|No. 620 Squadron]]
* {{CGO}}
* {{flag|Democratic Republic of the Congo}}
* {{CUB}}
* {{CZS}}
* {{DNK}}
* {{DOM}}
* {{ECU}}
* {{EGY}}
* {{ESA}}
* {{ETH}}
* {{FIN}}
* {{FRA}}
* {{GAB}}
* {{GRE}}
* {{GUA}}
* {{HAI}}
* {{HON}}
* {{HUN}}
* {{ISL}}
* {{IND}}
* {{IDN}}
* {{Flagcountry|Pahlavi dynasty}}
* {{ISR}}
* {{ITA}}
* {{CIV}}
* {{JOR}}
* {{JPN}}
* {{KEN}}
* {{flagdeco|Laos|1952}} [[Kingdom of Laos|Laos]]
* {{LBA}}
* {{MAD}}
* {{MWI}}
* {{MLI}}
* {{MRT}}
* {{MEX}}
* {{MON}}
* {{MAR}}
* {{NLD}}
* {{NZL}}
* {{NIC}}
* {{NIG}}
* {{NGA}}
* {{flag|Northern Rhodesia}}<ref name=trade>{{cite web |url=http://armstrade.sipri.org/armstrade/page/trade_register.php |title=Trade Registers |publisher=Armstrade.sipri.org |access-date=2013-06-20 |archive-date=2017-12-29 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171229003804/http://armstrade.sipri.org/armstrade/page/trade_register.php |url-status=live }}</ref>
* {{NOR}}
* {{OMN}}
* {{PAK}}
* {{PAN}}
* {{PNG}}
* {{PAR}}
* {{PER}}
* {{Flag|Philippines|1936}}
* {{POL}}
* {{POR}}
* {{Flag|Rhodesia}}
* {{ROM}}
* {{RWA}}
* {{SAU}}
* {{SEN}}
* {{Flag|South Africa}}
* {{KOR}}
* {{Flag|South Vietnam}}
* {{SOM}}
* {{USSR}} (also as [[Lisunov Li-2]])
* {{SRI}}
* {{ESP}}
* {{SWE}}
* {{SYR}}
* {{TWN}}
* {{TAN}}
* {{THA}}
* {{TOG}}
* {{TUR}}
* {{UGA}}
* {{URU}}
* {{UK}}
* {{USA}}
* {{VEN}}
* {{VNM}}
* {{Flag|West Germany}}
* {{YEM}}
* {{YUG}}
* {{ZAI}}
* {{ZAM}}<ref name=trade/>
{{div col end}}


==Accidents and incidents==
===[[South African Air Force]]===
{{Further|List of accidents and incidents involving the DC-3}}


==Surviving aircraft==
* [[35 Squadron SAAF|35 Squadron]] (Still in use, flying the Turbo Dakota.)
{{Main|List of surviving Douglas C-47 Skytrains}}
* [[No. 44 Squadron SAAF]] (employed in 1944 and 1945 to support operations in the [[Greek Civil War]]
Large numbers of C-47s, C-117s and other variants survive, on display in museums or as monuments; operated as [[warbird]]s; or remaining in service.


As part of the 75th-anniversary commemoration in June 2019, 14 American C-47s and another group of 'Daks' from Europe retraced the route across the English Channel to [[Normandy]] taken by roughly 850 of these aircraft on [[D-Day]].<ref>{{cite web |title=Miss Montana – Miss Montana to Normandy |url=https://missmontanatonormandy.com/miss-montana-2/ |access-date=9 June 2019 |archive-date=12 December 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201212234013/https://missmontanatonormandy.com/miss-montana-2/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last1=Golds |first1=Alan |title=A World War II-era veteran returns to the air |url=https://www.cbsnews.com/news/d-day-75th-anniversary-miss-montana-flight-to-normandy/ |access-date=9 June 2019 |work=www.cbsnews.com |date=2 June 2019 |language=en |archive-date=9 June 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190609014841/https://www.cbsnews.com/news/d-day-75th-anniversary-miss-montana-flight-to-normandy/ |url-status=live}}</ref> Among them were ''That's All, Brother'', ''Betsy's Biscuit Bomber'', ''Miss Montana'', ''Spirit of Benovia'', ''D-Day Doll'', ''Boogie Baby'', N47E ''Miss Virginia'', and ''Whiskey 7''.<ref>{{cite web |title=The Mighty Fifteen{{mdash}}The American Contingent Flying to Normandy |url=https://ddaysquadron.org/the-mighty-fifteen-the-american-contingent-flying-to-normandy/ |website=The D-Day Squadron |publisher=DC-3 Society |access-date=7 January 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191130021736/https://ddaysquadron.org/american-contingent/ |archive-date=2019-11-30 |quote=See archive link for aircraft photos. |url-status=live}}<!-- original linked page was titled "Our American Contingent" -->{{cbignore}}</ref>
=== [[Hellenic Air Force]] ===


==Specifications (C-47B-DK)==
* [[No. 355 Squadron RHAF]] (employed in the [[Greek Civil War]] from 1946 through 1948)
[[File:Douglas C-47 Skytrain drawings.svg|thumb|Douglas C-47 Skytrain 3-view drawing]]
{{Aircraft specs
|ref=McDonnell Douglas aircraft since 1920 : Volume I<ref name="Francillon">{{cite book |last1=Francillon |first1=René J. |title=McDonnell Douglas aircraft since 1920 : Volume I |date=1988 |publisher=Naval Institute Press |location=London |isbn=0870214284 |pages=217–251}}</ref>
|prime units?=imp
<!-- General characteristics
-->
|crew=4 (pilot, co-pilot, navigator, radio operator)
|capacity=28 troops or {{cvt|6000|lb|t|2}} of cargo
|length ft=63
|length in=9
|length note=
|span ft=95
|span in=6
|span note=
|height ft=17
|height in=0
|height note=
|wing area sqft=987
|wing area note=
|aspect ratio=<!-- sailplanes -->
|airfoil='''root:''' [[NACA airfoil|NACA 2215]]; '''tip:''' [[NACA airfoil|NACA 2206]]<ref name="Selig">{{cite web |last1=Lednicer |first1=David |title=The Incomplete Guide to Airfoil Usage |url=https://m-selig.ae.illinois.edu/ads/aircraft.html |website=m-selig.ae.illinois.edu |access-date=16 April 2019 |archive-date=26 March 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190326174850/https://m-selig.ae.illinois.edu/ads/aircraft.html |url-status=live }}</ref>
|empty weight lb=18135
|empty weight note=
|gross weight lb=26000
|gross weight note=
|max takeoff weight lb=31000
|max takeoff weight note=
|fuel capacity=
|more general=
<!-- Powerplant
-->
|eng1 number=2
|eng1 name=[[Pratt & Whitney R-1830-90C Twin Wasp]]
|eng1 type=14-cylinder air-cooled radial piston engines
|eng1 hp=1200


|prop blade number=3
==Reference==
|prop name=constant-speed propellers
* {{Ref Air Wars and Aircraft}}
|prop dia ft=<!-- propeller aircraft -->
* Francillon, René (1979). ''McDonnell Douglas Aircraft Since 1920: Volume I.'' London: Putnam. ISBN 0-87021-428-4
|prop dia in=<!-- propeller aircraft -->
* Yenne, Bill (1985). ''McDonnell Douglas: A Tale of Two Giants.'' Greenwich, CT: Bison Books. ISBN 0-517-442876
|prop dia note=
<!-- Performance
-->
|max speed mph=224
|max speed note=at {{cvt|10000|ft}}
|cruise speed mph=
|cruise speed note=
|stall speed mph=
|stall speed note=
|never exceed speed mph=
|never exceed speed note=
|minimum control speed mph=
|minimum control speed note=
|range miles=1600
|range note=
|combat range miles=
|combat range note=
|ferry range miles=3600
|ferry range note=
|endurance=<!-- if range unknown -->
|ceiling ft=26400
|ceiling note=
|g limits=<!-- aerobatic -->
|roll rate=<!-- aerobatic -->
|climb rate ftmin=
|climb rate note=
|time to altitude={{cvt|10000|ft}} in 9 minutes 30 seconds
|wing loading lb/sqft=26.3
|wing loading note=
|fuel consumption lb/mi=
|power/mass={{cvt|0.0926|hp/lb|kW/kg}}


|more performance=
== Related content ==
<!-- Armament
{{aircontent|
-->
<!-- answer yes or no -->
|armament=<!-- add bulletted list here or if you want to use the following
|links=
specific parameters, remove this parameter-->
|has sequence=yes
|guns=
|has relations=yes
|bombs=
|has lists=yes
|rockets=
|see also?=
|missiles=
|hardpoints=
|hardpoint capacity=
|hardpoint rockets=
|hardpoint missiles=
|hardpoint bombs=
|hardpoint other=


|avionics=
|sequence=
}}
* Army sequence: [[Messerschmitt C-44|C-44]] - [[C-45 Expeditor|C-45]] - [[C-46 Commando|C-46]] - '''C-47''' - [[Douglas DC-3|C-48]] - [[Douglas DC-3|C-49]] - [[Douglas DC-3|C-50]]
* Navy sequence: [[Douglas Dolphin|RD]] - [[Douglas DC-2|R2D]] - [[Douglas DC-5|R3D]] - '''R4D''' - [[C-54 Skymaster|R5D]] - [[C-118 Liftmaster|R6D]] - [[Consolidated RY|RY]]


==See also==
{{Portal|Aviation}}
{{aircontent
|related=
|related=
* [[Basler BT-67]]
<!-- From which older designs was this plane developed, and what planes did it lead to? -->
* [[Conroy Turbo-Three]]
* [[Douglas AC-47 Spooky]]
* [[Douglas DC-3]]
* [[Douglas DC-3]]
* [[Douglas XCG-17]]

* [[Lisunov Li-2]]
* [[Showa/Nakajima L2D]]
|similar aircraft=
|similar aircraft=
* [[Curtiss C-46 Commando]]
<!-- aircraft with similar role, era, and capability -->
* [[Junkers Ju 52|Junkers Ju 52/3m]]
* [[C-46 Commando]]

|lists=
|lists=
* [[List of aircraft of World War II]]
<!-- lists of similar aircraft (aircraft from the same nation, with the same mission profile, etc.) -->
* [[List of military aircraft of the United States]]
* [[List of military aircraft of the United States]]
* [[List of United States Navy aircraft designations (pre-1962)]]

* [[List of non-carrier aircraft flown from aircraft carriers]]
|see also=
|see also=
}}
<!-- For related wikipedia articles. -->
* [[]]
* [[]]
* [[]]


==References==
|external links=
* [ ]
* [ ]
* [ ]


===Notes===
}}
{{Reflist|group=Note}}


===Citations===
[[Category:U.S. military transport aircraft 1940-1949]]
{{Reflist}}
[[Category:World War II American transport aircraft]]

===Bibliography===
* {{cite magazine|last=Anderson|first=C. E. "Bud"|title=Caught by the Wing-tip|magazine=[[Air Enthusiast]] |date=December 1981 – March 1982|issue=17 |pages=74–80 |issn=0143-5450}}
* Chorlton, Martyn. ''Paths in the Wood''. Cowbit, UK: Old Forge Publishing Ltd, 2003. {{ISBN|0-9544507-0-1}}.
* {{cite journal |last1=De Vink|first1=Hervé|title=Adieu au "Dakota" de la Force aérienne belge|journal=Le Fana de l'Aviation |date=August 1976 |issue=81 |pages=17–19 |issn=0757-4169 |language=fr|trans-title=Farewell to the Dakotas of the Belgian Air Force}}
* Donald, David. ''The Complete Encyclopedia of World Aircraft''. New York: Barnes & Noble, 1997. {{ISBN|0-7607-0592-5}}.
* Flintham, Victor. ''Air Wars and Aircraft: A Detailed Record of Air Combat, 1945 to the Present''. New York: Facts on File, 1990. {{ISBN|0-8160-2356-5}}.
* Francillon, René J. ''McDonnell Douglas Aircraft Since 1920''. London: Putnam & Company, 1979. {{ISBN|0-370-00050-1}}.
* Gradidge, Jennifer M. ''The Douglas DC-1, DC-2, DC-3: The First Seventy Years''. Two volumes. Tonbridge, UK: Air-Britain (Historians) Ltd., 2006. {{ISBN|0-85130-332-3}}.
* Herman, Arthur. ''Freedom's Forge: How American Business Produced Victory in World War II''. New York: Random House, 2012. {{ISBN|978-1-4000-6964-4}}.
* Kaplan, Philip. ''Legend: A Celebration of the Douglas DC-3/C-47/Dakota''. Peter Livanos & Philip Kaplan, 2009. {{ISBN|978-0-9557061-1-0}}.
* Parker, Dana T. ''Building Victory: Aircraft Manufacturing in the Los Angeles Area in World War II''. Cypress, California: Dana Parker Enterprises, 2013. {{ISBN|978-0-9897906-0-4}}.
* Pearcy, Arthur Jr. "Douglas R4D variants (US Navy's DC-3/C-47)". ''Aircraft in Profile, Volume 14''. Windsor, Berkshire, UK: Profile Publications, 1974, pp.&nbsp;49–73. {{ISBN|0-85383-023-1}}.
* {{cite journal|title=Pentagon Over the Islands: The Thirty-Year History of Indonesian Military Aviation|journal=Air Enthusiast Quarterly |date=n.d. |issue=2 |pages=154–162 |issn=0143-5450}}
* {{cite journal |last1=Serrano|first1=José Luis González|title=Fifty Years of DC Service: Douglas Transports Used by the Spanish Air Force |journal=Air Enthusiast |date=March–April 1999 |issue=80 |pages=61–71 |issn=0143-5450}}
* {{cite magazine|last=Widfeldt|first=Bo|title="Operation Ball": USAAF Operations in Sweden 1944–45 |magazine=[[Air Enthusiast]] |date=April–July 1980|issue=12 |pages=51–53 |issn=0143-5450}}
* Yenne, Bill. ''McDonnell Douglas: A Tale of Two Giants''. Greenwich, Connecticut: Bison Books, 1985. {{ISBN|0-517-44287-6}}.

==External links==
{{Commons}}
* [https://www.boeing.com/history/products/c-47-skytrain.page Boeing: Historical Snapshot: C-47 Skytrain military transport]
* [https://www.scribd.com/doc/53264079 Manual: (1943) T.O. No. 01-40NC-1 Pilot's Flight Operating Instructions C-47 Airplane] {{dead link|date=January 2015}}
* {{cite web | title =Our Tow Ships | publisher =National WWII Glider Pilots Association, Inc. 9 July 2014 | url = http://www.ww2gp.org/OurTowShips/index.php }}
* [https://digitalcollections.museumofflight.org/items/show/48136 Pilot training manual for the C-47] – [https://digitalcollections.museumofflight.org/ The Museum of Flight Digital Collections]

{{Douglas aircraft}}
{{Douglas DC-3 family}}
{{AircraftDesignationNavboxShell
|1={{USAF transports}}
|2={{USN transports}}
|3={{USAF system codes}}
|4={{Swedish military aircraft designations}}
|5={{CF aircraft}}
|6={{Czech transport aircraft}}
|7={{Thai transport aircraft designations}}
|8={{Thai observation aircraft designations}}
|9={{Spanish transport aircraft}}
|10={{ADF aircraft designations}}
}}


[[Category:Aircraft first flown in 1941]]
[[da:C-47]]
[[fr:Douglas C-47 Skytrain]]
[[Category:Douglas aircraft|C-047 Skytrain]]
[[Category:Douglas DC-3]]
[[Category:Low-wing aircraft]]
[[Category:Twin piston-engined tractor aircraft]]
[[Category:1940s United States military transport aircraft|Douglas C-047 Skytrain]]
[[Category:Aircraft with retractable conventional landing gear]]

Latest revision as of 05:26, 6 January 2025

"C-47" redirects here. For other uses, see C-47 (disambiguation).
"R4D" redirects here. For the rocket engine, see R-4D.

C-47 Skytrain / Dakota
C-53 Skytrooper
C-47 43-30652 "Whiskey 7" at Duxford D-Day Show 2014
General information
TypeMilitary transport aircraft
National originUnited States
ManufacturerDouglas Aircraft Company
StatusIn service
Primary usersUnited States Army Air Forces
Number built10,174
History
First flight23 December 1941 (1941-12-23)[1]
Developed fromDouglas DC-3
VariantsDouglas XCG-17
Douglas AC-47 Spooky
Douglas R4D-8

The Douglas C-47 Skytrain or Dakota (RAF designation) is a military transport aircraft developed from the civilian Douglas DC-3 airliner. It was used extensively by the Allies during World War II. During the war the C-47 was used for troop transport, cargo, paratrooper, for towing gliders and military cargo parachute drops. The C-47 remained in front-line service with various military operators for many years.[2] It was produced in approximately triple the numbers as the larger, much heavier payload Curtiss C-46 Commando, which filled a similar role for the U.S. military.

Approximately 100 countries' armed forces have operated the C-47 with over 60 variants of the aircraft produced. As with the civilian DC-3, the C-47 remains in service in the present day, over 80 years after the type's introduction.

Design and development

[edit]

The C-47 differed from the civilian DC-3 by way of numerous modifications, including being fitted with a cargo door, hoist attachment and strengthened floor - along with a shortened tail cone for glider-towing shackles, and an astrodome in the cabin roof.[3][4]

During World War II, the armed forces of many countries used the C-47 and modified DC-3s for the transport of troops, cargo, and wounded. The U.S. naval designation was R4D. More than 10,000 aircraft were produced in Long Beach and Santa Monica, California, and Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. Between March 1943 and August 1945, the Oklahoma City plant produced 5,354 C-47s.[2][5]

The specialized C-53 Skytrooper troop transport started production in October 1941 at Douglas Aircraft's Santa Monica plant. It lacked the cargo door, hoist attachment, and reinforced floor of the C-47. Only 380 aircraft were produced in all because the C-47 was found to be more versatile.

Super DC-3 (R4D-8)

[edit]
Main article: Douglas R4D-8
U.S. Navy C-117Ds at RAF Mildenhall in 1967

Large numbers of DC-3s and surplus C-47s were in commercial use in the United States in the 1940s. In response to proposed changes to the Civil Air Regulations airworthiness requirements that would limit the continuing use of these aircraft, Douglas offered a late-1940s DC-3 conversion to improve takeoff and single-engine performance. This new model, the DC-3S or "Super DC-3", was 39 in (0.99 m) longer. It allowed 30 passengers to be carried, with increased speed to compete with newer airliners. The rearward shift in the center of gravity led to larger tail surfaces and new outer, swept-back wings. More powerful engines were installed along with shorter, jet ejection-type exhaust stacks. These were either 1,475 hp (1,100 kW) Wright R-1820 Cyclones or 1,450 hp (1,081 kW) Pratt & Whitney R-2000 Twin Wasps in larger engine nacelles. Minor changes included wheel-well doors, a partially retractable tailwheel, flush rivets, and low-drag antenna. These all contributed to an increased top speed of 250 mph (400 km/h; 220 kn). With over 75% of the original DC-3/C-47 configuration changed, the modified design was virtually a new aircraft.[6] The first DC-3S made its maiden flight on 23 June 1949.[7]

The changes fully met the new FAR 4B airworthiness requirements, with significantly improved performance. However, little interest was expressed by commercial operators in the DC-3S. It was too expensive for the smaller operators that were its main target; only three were sold to Capital Airlines. The U.S. Navy and U.S. Marine Corps had 100 of their R4D aircraft modified to Super DC-3 standards as the R4D-8, later redesignated the C-117D.[8]

Operational history

[edit]

World War II

[edit]
U.S. Army Pathfinders and USAAF flight crew prior to D-Day, June 1944, in front of a C-47 Skytrain at RAF North Witham

The C-47 was vital to the success of many Allied campaigns, in particular, those at Guadalcanal and in the jungles of New Guinea and Burma, where the C-47 and its naval version, the R4D, made it possible for Allied troops to counter the mobility of the light-traveling Japanese Army. C-47s were used to airlift supplies to the encircled American forces during the Battle of Bastogne in Belgium. Possibly its most influential role in military aviation, however, was flying "The Hump" from India into China. The expertise gained flying "The Hump" was later used in the Berlin Airlift, in which the C-47 played a major role until the aircraft were replaced by Douglas C-54 Skymasters.[citation needed]

In Europe, the C-47 and a specialized paratroop variant, the C-53 Skytrooper, were used in vast numbers in the later stages of the war, particularly to tow gliders and drop paratroops. During the invasion of Sicily in July 1943, C-47s dropped 4,381 Allied paratroops. More than 50,000 paratroops were dropped by C-47s during the first few days of the D-Day campaign also known as the invasion of Normandy, France, in June 1944.[9] In the Pacific War, with careful use of the island landing strips of the Pacific Ocean, C-47s were used for ferrying soldiers serving in the Pacific theater back to the United States.

About 2,000 C-47s (received under Lend-Lease) in British and Commonwealth service took the name "Dakota", possibly inspired by the acronym "DACoTA" for Douglas Aircraft Company Transport Aircraft.[10]

The C-47 also earned the informal nickname "gooney bird" in the European theatre of operations.[11] Other sources[12] attribute this name to the first aircraft, a USMC R2D—the military version of the DC-2—being the first aircraft to land on Midway Island, previously home to the long-winged albatross known as the gooney bird which was native to Midway.

Postwar era

[edit]
C-47s unloading at Tempelhof Airport during the Berlin Airlift

The United States Air Force's Strategic Air Command had Skytrains in service from 1946 to 1967. The US Air Force's 6th Special Operations Squadron was flying the C-47 until 2008.

TC-47D at McChord AFB

With all of their aircraft and pilots having been part of the Indian Air Force prior to independence, both the Indian Air Force and Pakistan Air Force used C-47s to transport supplies to their soldiers fighting in the Indo-Pakistan War of 1947.

After World War II, thousands of surplus C-47s were converted to civilian airline use, some remaining in operation in 2012, as well as being used as private aircraft.

Vietnam War

[edit]

Several C-47 variants were used in the Vietnam War by the United States Air Force, including three advanced electronic-warfare variations, which sometimes were called "electric gooneys" designated EC-47N, EC-47P, or EC-47Q depending on the engine used. In addition, HC-47s were used by the 9th Special Operations Squadron to conduct psychological warfare operations over South Vietnam and Laos. Miami Air International, Miami International Airport was a USAF military depot used to convert the commercial DC-3s/C-47s into military use. They came in as commercial aircraft purchased from third-world airlines and were completely stripped, rebuilt, and reconditioned. Long-range fuel tanks were installed, along with upgraded avionics and gun mounts. They left as first-rate military aircraft headed for combat in Vietnam in a variety of missions. [Note 1] EC-47s were also operated by the Vietnamese, Laotian, and Cambodian Air Forces.[14] A gunship variation, using three 7.62 mm miniguns, designated AC-47 "Spooky", often nicknamed "Puff the magic dragon", also was deployed.[11]

Variants

[edit]
Main article: List of Douglas DC-3 family variants
C-47 in RCAF livery, still flying today. Operated by the RAF in England during WWII. FZ692 participated in two major airborne operations, Normandy and the Rhine Crossing.
Paratroop C-47, 12th Air Force Troop Carrier Wing, invasion of southern France, 15 August 1944
Interior view of Douglas C-47, Hendon Aerodrome, England
Aircraft of the 6th Special Operations Squadron including a turboprop C-47 (Basler BT-67) in use by the U.S. Air Force, c. 2005
Douglas C-47 lineup at Willow Run, Michigan Airshow, August 2017
C-47B Skytrain 43-49942
A former USAAF C-47A Skytrain which flew from a base in Devon, England, during the D-Day Normandy invasion and shows "invasion stripes" on her wings and fuselage
Douglas C-53 Skytrooper, c/n 4935, operated by a skydiving service at Eloy, Arizona
Douglas C-47A Skytrain Old Number 30
C-47 Skytrain cockpit
Douglas C-47A Skytrain of the Venezuelan Air Force
C-47
Initial military version of the DC-3 had four crew (pilot, co-pilot, navigator, and radio operator) and seats for 27 troops alongside the fuselage interior. "Aerial Ambulances" fitted for casualty evacuation could carry 18 stretcher cases and a medical crew of three; 965 built (including 12 for the United States Navy as R4D-1).
C-47A
C-47 with a 24-volt electrical system, 5,254 built including USN aircraft designated R4D-5
RC-47A
C-47A equipped for photographic reconnaissance and ELINT missions
SC-47A
C-47A equipped for Search Air Rescue; redesignated HC-47A in 1962
VC-47A
C-47A equipped for VIP transport role
C-47B
Powered by R-1830-90 engines with two-speed superchargers (better altitude performance) to cover the China-Burma-India routes, 3,364 built
VC-47B
C-47B equipped for VIP transport role
XC-47C
C-47 tested with Edo Model 78 floats for possible use as a seaplane[15][16]
C-47D
C-47B with second speed (high blower) of engine supercharger disabled or removed after the war
AC-47D Spooky
Gunship aircraft with three side-firing .30 in (7.62 mm) Minigun machine guns
EC-47D
C-47D with equipment for the Electronics Calibration, of which 26 were so converted by Hayes in 1953; prior to 1962 was designated AC-47D
NC-47D
C-47D modified for test roles
RC-47D
C-47D equipped for photographic reconnaissance and ELINT missions
SC-47D
C-47D equipped for Search Air Rescue; redesignated HC-47D in 1962
VC-47D
C-47D equipped for VIP transport role
C-47E
Modified cargo variant with space for 27–28 passengers or 18–24 litters
C-47F
YC-129 redesignated, Super DC-3 prototype for evaluation by USAF later passed to USN as XR4D-8
C-47L/M
C-47H/Js equipped for the support of American Legation United States Naval Attache (ALUSNA) and Military Assistance Advisory Group (MAAG) missions
EC-47N/P/Q
C-47A and D aircraft modified for ELINT/ARDF mission, N and P differ in radio bands covered, while Q replaces analog equipment found on the N and P with a digital suite, redesigned antenna equipment and uprated engines
C-47R
One C-47M modified for high altitude work, specifically for missions in Ecuador
C-53 Skytrooper
Troop transport version of the C-47 that lacked the reinforced cargo floor, large cargo door, and hoist attachment of the C-47 Skytrain. It was dedicated for the troop transport role and could carry 28 passengers in fixed metal seats arranged in rows in the former cargo space; 221 built.
XC-53A Skytrooper
One testbed aircraft modified in March 1942 with full-span slotted flaps and hot-air leading edge de-icing. Converted to C-53 standard in 1949 and sold as surplus.
C-53B Skytrooper
Winterized and long-range Arctic version of the C-53 with extra fuel tanks in the fuselage and separate navigator's astrodome station for celestial navigation; eight built.
C-53C Skytrooper
C-53 with larger port-side access door; 17 built.
C-53D Skytrooper
C-53C with 24V DC electrical system and its 28 seats attached to the sides of the fuselage; 159 built.
C-117A Skytrooper
C-47B with 24-seat airline-type interior for staff transport use, 16 built.
VC-117A
Three redesignated C-117s used in the VIP role
SC-117A
One C-117C converted for air-sea rescue
C-117B/VC-117B
High-altitude two-speed superchargers replaced by one-speed superchargers, one built and conversions from C-117As all later VC-117B
C-117D
USN/USMC R4D-8 redesignated C-117D in 1962.
LC-117D
USN/USMC R4D-8L redesignated LC-117D in 1962.
TC-117D
USN/USMC R4D-8T redesignated TC-117D in 1962.
VC-117D
USN R4D-8Z redesignated VC-117D in 1962.
YC-129
Super DC-3 prototype for evaluation by USAF redesignated C-47F and later passed to USN as XR4D-8. Wright R-1820 engines uprated to 1425 hp.
CC-129
Canadian Forces designation for the C-47 (post-1970)
XCG-17
One C-47 tested as a 40-seat troop glider with engines removed and faired over
R4D-1 Skytrain
USN/USMC version of the C-47
R4D-3
Twenty C-53Cs transferred to USN
R4D-5
C-47A variant 24-volt electrical system replacing the 12-volt of the C-47; redesignated C-47H in 1962, 238 transferred from USAF
R4D-5L
R4D-5 for use in Antarctica. Redesignated LC-47H in 1962. Photos of this type show the removal of underslung engine oil coolers typical of the R-1830 engine installation; apparently not needed in the cold polar regions.
R4D-5Q
R4D-5 for use as special ECM trainer. Redesignated EC-47H in 1962
R4D-5R
R4D-5 for use as a personnel transport for 21 passengers and as a trainer aircraft; redesignated TC-47H in 1962
R4D-5S
R4D-5 for use as a special ASW trainer; redesignated SC-47H in 1962
R4D-5Z
R4D-5 for use as a VIP transport; redesignated VC-47H in 1962
JMSDF R4D-6Q
United States Navy R4D-8
R4D-6
157 C-47Bs transferred to USN; redesignated C-47J in 1962
R4D-6L, Q, R, S, and Z
Variants as the R4D-5 series; redesignated LC-47J, EC-47J, TC-47J, SC-47J, and VC-47J respectively in 1962
R4D-7
44 TC-47Bs transferred from USAF for use as a navigational trainer; redesignated TC-47K in 1962
R4D-8
R4D-5 and R4D-6 remanufactured aircraft with stretched fuselage, Wright R-1820 engines, fitted with modified wings and redesigned tail surfaces; redesignated C-117D in 1962
R4D-8L
R4D-8 converted for Antarctic use, redesignated LC-117D in 1962
R4D-8T
R4D-8 converted as crew trainers, redesignated TC-117D in 1962
R4D-8Z
R4D-8 converted as a staff transport, redesignated VC-117D in 1962
C-47TP "Turbo Dak"
Refit with two Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6A-67R turboprops and fuselage stretch for the South African Air Force
Basler BT-67
C-47 conversion with a stretched fuselage, strengthened structure, modern avionics, and powered by two Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6A-67R turboprops

RAF designations

[edit]
A Dakota IV in RAF Transport Command colors, owned by the Classic Air Force, operating out of Coventry Airport
Dakota I
RAF designation for the C-47 and R4D-1.
Dakota II
RAF designation for nine C-53 Skytroopers received under the lend lease scheme. Unlike the majority of RAF Dakotas, these aircraft were therefore dedicated troop transports, lacking the wide cargo doors and reinforced floor of the C-47.
Dakota III
RAF designation for the C-47A.
Dakota IV
RAF designation for the C-47B.
Airspeed AS.61
Projected conversion of Dakota I aircraft by Airspeed. None built.
Airspeed AS.62
Projected conversion of Dakota II aircraft by Airspeed. None built.
Airspeed AS.63
Projected conversion of Dakota III aircraft by Airspeed. None built.
BEA Pionair/Dart-Dakota
Conversion of Dakota to Rolls-Royce Dart power and used by BEA to prove turboprop engines prior to entry into service of Vickers Viscount.[17]

Aftermarket conversions

[edit]
Main article: List of Douglas DC-3 family variants § Conversions

Operators

[edit]
South African Air Force C-47TP "Turbo Dak"
A Royal Thai Air Force Basler BT-67 (C-47 conversion with Pratt & Whitney turboprops and stretched fuselage)
The IAF's heritage aircraft, Douglas C-47 Skytrain (Dakota), during the Republic Day Flypast 2024.


See also: List of Douglas C-47 Skytrain operators

Accidents and incidents

[edit]
Further information: List of accidents and incidents involving the DC-3

Surviving aircraft

[edit]
Main article: List of surviving Douglas C-47 Skytrains

Large numbers of C-47s, C-117s and other variants survive, on display in museums or as monuments; operated as warbirds; or remaining in service.

As part of the 75th-anniversary commemoration in June 2019, 14 American C-47s and another group of 'Daks' from Europe retraced the route across the English Channel to Normandy taken by roughly 850 of these aircraft on D-Day.[20][21] Among them were That's All, Brother, Betsy's Biscuit Bomber, Miss Montana, Spirit of Benovia, D-Day Doll, Boogie Baby, N47E Miss Virginia, and Whiskey 7.[22]

Specifications (C-47B-DK)

[edit]
Douglas C-47 Skytrain 3-view drawing

Data from McDonnell Douglas aircraft since 1920 : Volume I[23]

General characteristics

  • Crew: 4 (pilot, co-pilot, navigator, radio operator)
  • Capacity: 28 troops or 6,000 lb (2.72 t) of cargo
  • Length: 63 ft 9 in (19.43 m)
  • Wingspan: 95 ft 6 in (29.11 m)
  • Height: 17 ft 0 in (5.18 m)
  • Wing area: 987 sq ft (91.7 m2)
  • Airfoil: root: NACA 2215; tip: NACA 2206[24]
  • Empty weight: 18,135 lb (8,226 kg)
  • Gross weight: 26,000 lb (11,793 kg)
  • Max takeoff weight: 31,000 lb (14,061 kg)
  • Powerplant: 2 × Pratt & Whitney R-1830-90C Twin Wasp 14-cylinder air-cooled radial piston engines, 1,200 hp (890 kW) each
  • Propellers: 3-bladed constant-speed propellers

Performance

  • Maximum speed: 224 mph (360 km/h, 195 kn) at 10,000 ft (3,000 m)
  • Range: 1,600 mi (2,600 km, 1,400 nmi)
  • Ferry range: 3,600 mi (5,800 km, 3,100 nmi)
  • Service ceiling: 26,400 ft (8,000 m)
  • Time to altitude: 10,000 ft (3,000 m) in 9 minutes 30 seconds
  • Wing loading: 26.3 lb/sq ft (128 kg/m2)
  • Power/mass: 0.0926 hp/lb (0.1522 kW/kg)

See also

[edit]

Related development

Aircraft of comparable role, configuration, and era

Related lists

References

[edit]

Notes

[edit]
  1. ^ Air International out of Miami International Airport was a military depot used by the air force to convert the DC-3s into military use.[13]

Citations

[edit]
  1. ^ C-47 Skytrain Military Transport Historical Snapshot Archived 2020-10-28 at the Wayback Machine. Boeing. Retrieved: 29 June 2017.
  2. ^ a b Parker 2013, pp. 13, 35, 37, 39, 45–47.
  3. ^ Wilson, Stewart. Aircraft of WWII. Fyshwick, ACT, Australia: Aerospace Publications Pty Ltd., 1998. ISBN 1-875671-35-8.
  4. ^ Parker 2013, pp. 37, 39, 45-47.
  5. ^ Herman 2012, pp. 202-203, 227.
  6. ^ "Super DC-3" Archived 2017-07-21 at the Wayback Machine. dc3history.org. Retrieved 23 June 2010.
  7. ^ Francillon 1979, pp. 464–465.
  8. ^ Francillon 1979, pp. 466–467.
  9. ^ Cacutt, Len. "The World's Greatest Aircraft," Exeter Books, New York, NY, 1988. ISBN 0-7917-0011-9.
  10. ^ "History: Douglas C-47 Skytrain Military Transport" Archived 2020-10-28 at the Wayback Machine. Boeing. Retrieved: 14 July 2015.
  11. ^ a b O'Rourke, G.G, CAPT USN. "Of Hosenoses, Stoofs, and Lefthanded Spads". United States Naval Institute Proceedings, July 1968.
  12. ^ C-47/R4D Skytrain units of the Pacific and CBI, David Isby, Osprey Combat Aircraft #66, Osprey Publishing Limited, 2007
  13. ^ "Chronological History of the EC-47's Location by Tail Number." Archived 2020-10-08 at the Wayback Machine ec47.com. Retrieved: 7 April 2009.
  14. ^ Rickard, J. "Douglas EC-47N" Archived 2020-04-23 at the Wayback Machine. historyofwar.org, 12 November 2008. Retrieved: 7 April 2009.
  15. ^ "Aviation in Long Pants" (photo of XC-47C). Archived 2023-09-09 at the Wayback Machine Popular Mechanics, July 1944.
  16. ^ "DC-3s On Floats." Archived 2020-10-27 at the Wayback Machine YouTube, 8 November 2008. Note: first part has rare World War II film footage and narration by project manager for the XC-47C.
  17. ^ "1952 | 3204 | Flight Archive". Flightglobal.com. 15 August 1951. Archived from the original on 22 December 2017. Retrieved 27 June 2018.
  18. ^ "Douglas DC-3 (CC-129) Dakota." Archived 2011-06-11 at the Wayback Machine DND - Canada's Air Force. Retrieved: 14 October 2009.
  19. ^ a b "Trade Registers". Armstrade.sipri.org. Archived from the original on 29 December 2017. Retrieved 20 June 2013.
  20. ^ "Miss Montana – Miss Montana to Normandy". Archived from the original on 12 December 2020. Retrieved 9 June 2019.
  21. ^ Golds, Alan (2 June 2019). "A World War II-era veteran returns to the air". www.cbsnews.com. Archived from the original on 9 June 2019. Retrieved 9 June 2019.
  22. ^ "The Mighty Fifteen—The American Contingent Flying to Normandy". The D-Day Squadron. DC-3 Society. Archived from the original on 30 November 2019. Retrieved 7 January 2021. See archive link for aircraft photos.
  23. ^ Francillon, René J. (1988). McDonnell Douglas aircraft since 1920 : Volume I. London: Naval Institute Press. pp. 217–251. ISBN 0870214284.
  24. ^ Lednicer, David. "The Incomplete Guide to Airfoil Usage". m-selig.ae.illinois.edu. Archived from the original on 26 March 2019. Retrieved 16 April 2019.

Bibliography

[edit]
  • Anderson, C. E. "Bud" (December 1981 – March 1982). "Caught by the Wing-tip". Air Enthusiast. No. 17. pp. 74–80. ISSN 0143-5450.
  • Chorlton, Martyn. Paths in the Wood. Cowbit, UK: Old Forge Publishing Ltd, 2003. ISBN 0-9544507-0-1.
  • De Vink, Hervé (August 1976). "Adieu au "Dakota" de la Force aérienne belge" [Farewell to the Dakotas of the Belgian Air Force]. Le Fana de l'Aviation (in French) (81): 17–19. ISSN 0757-4169.
  • Donald, David. The Complete Encyclopedia of World Aircraft. New York: Barnes & Noble, 1997. ISBN 0-7607-0592-5.
  • Flintham, Victor. Air Wars and Aircraft: A Detailed Record of Air Combat, 1945 to the Present. New York: Facts on File, 1990. ISBN 0-8160-2356-5.
  • Francillon, René J. McDonnell Douglas Aircraft Since 1920. London: Putnam & Company, 1979. ISBN 0-370-00050-1.
  • Gradidge, Jennifer M. The Douglas DC-1, DC-2, DC-3: The First Seventy Years. Two volumes. Tonbridge, UK: Air-Britain (Historians) Ltd., 2006. ISBN 0-85130-332-3.
  • Herman, Arthur. Freedom's Forge: How American Business Produced Victory in World War II. New York: Random House, 2012. ISBN 978-1-4000-6964-4.
  • Kaplan, Philip. Legend: A Celebration of the Douglas DC-3/C-47/Dakota. Peter Livanos & Philip Kaplan, 2009. ISBN 978-0-9557061-1-0.
  • Parker, Dana T. Building Victory: Aircraft Manufacturing in the Los Angeles Area in World War II. Cypress, California: Dana Parker Enterprises, 2013. ISBN 978-0-9897906-0-4.
  • Pearcy, Arthur Jr. "Douglas R4D variants (US Navy's DC-3/C-47)". Aircraft in Profile, Volume 14. Windsor, Berkshire, UK: Profile Publications, 1974, pp. 49–73. ISBN 0-85383-023-1.
  • "Pentagon Over the Islands: The Thirty-Year History of Indonesian Military Aviation". Air Enthusiast Quarterly (2): 154–162. n.d. ISSN 0143-5450.
  • Serrano, José Luis González (March–April 1999). "Fifty Years of DC Service: Douglas Transports Used by the Spanish Air Force". Air Enthusiast (80): 61–71. ISSN 0143-5450.
  • Widfeldt, Bo (April–July 1980). ""Operation Ball": USAAF Operations in Sweden 1944–45". Air Enthusiast. No. 12. pp. 51–53. ISSN 0143-5450.
  • Yenne, Bill. McDonnell Douglas: A Tale of Two Giants. Greenwich, Connecticut: Bison Books, 1985. ISBN 0-517-44287-6.
[edit]
Wikimedia Commons has media related to C-47 Skytrain.
Retrieved from "https://en.wikipedia.org/enwiki/w/index.php?title=Douglas_C-47_Skytrain&oldid=1267684550"