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Consolidated-Vultee XC-99
THE largest craft in the world at !he present time, with the exception
of the Hughes flying boat, the Consolidated-Vultee XC-99 is an experimental
troop, cargo, and hospital' transport. Its load capacity of 400 fully-equipped troops,
or 100,000 lbs. of cargo, or 300 litter patients, dwarfs all transports of World
War n.
The XC-99 is proof of the expanded use to which 'global air transportis to be
put in the near future. Its six pusher engines have power equivalent to five locomotives,
and the fuel supply, 21,166 gallons, would run an automobile around the world sixteen
times.
At the present time the airplane is undergoing intensive test-flying by Convair
personnel, upon successful completion of which it will be turned over to. the Air
Force. The XC-99 has a maximum range of 8,100 miles with reduced loads and a service
ceiling of 30,000 feet. The maximum speed is Detter than 300 mph. The wings and
power plants
are the same as those of the B-36.
• Rear view of huge vertical fin of XC-99 soaring 57. ft., into the, air.
• Note how small man looks peering out of"porthole. Fuselage 189 ft. long.
• Convair L-13 liaison plane is small enough to land on the 230-ft. wing.
.6 pusher engines power the croft. P & W Wasp Majors, 3,000 hp each.
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