DOUGLAS C-47A SPECIFICATIONS
Built for the Mission
Rugged, reliable, and remarkably versatile, the Douglas C-47A Skytrain became one of the most important transport aircraft of World War II. Developed from the legendary DC-3 airliner, the C-47A was engineered for the demanding realities of military service—carrying troops, cargo, paratroopers, and wounded personnel across nearly every theater of the war. Explore the specifications and capabilities that made this iconic aircraft a trusted workhorse of Allied air power and a legend that continues to fly today.
Dimensions & Capacity
Wingspan: 95 ft 6 in (29.11 m)
Length: 63 ft 9 in to 64 ft 5 in
Height: 17 ft 0 in (5.18 m)
Wing Area: 987 sq ft (91.7 m²)
Crew: 3 to 4 (pilot, co-pilot, navigator, radio operator)
Payload Capacity: 28 troops or 8,000 lbs. of cargo
Weights
Empty Weight: 18,935 lbs.
Max Takeoff Weight: 26,900 lbs.
Fuel Capacity: 804 gallons
Performance
Maximum Speed: 224 mph at 10,000 ft
Cruising Speed: 160 to 185 mph
Range: 1,200 miles
Service Ceiling: 24,000 to 26,400 ft
Engines
Two Pratt & Whitney R-1830-94 “Twin Wasp” 14-cylinder air-cooled radial piston engines
Power Output: 1,350 hp each (for takeoff)