What type of aircraft is the Douglas DC-4, and who manufactured it?

The Douglas DC-4 is an American four-engined, propeller-driven airliner and transport aircraft. It was developed and manufactured by the Douglas Aircraft Company.

What were the military designations for the DC-4, and what significant roles did they play?

The military versions of the DC-4 were designated C-54 and R5D. These aircraft served extensively during World War II, played a crucial role in the Berlin Airlift, and remained in service into the 1960s.

When did the Douglas DC-4 begin its service with civil airlines?

Following its military service, many civil airlines began operating the DC-4 worldwide starting in 1945.

What led to the development of the DC-4A design, and how did it differ from the earlier DC-4E?

The DC-4A design emerged after proving flights of the larger, 52-seat DC-4E revealed it to be too inefficient and unreliable for economic operation. Douglas responded to airline recommendations by creating an entirely new, smaller design, the DC-4A, which featured a simpler, unpressurized fuselage, Pratt & Whitney R-2000 Twin Wasp engines, and a single fin and rudder, while retaining the tricycle landing gear.

How did the entry of the United States into World War II affect the production of the DC-4?

With the U.S. entering World War II in December 1941, the United States Army Air Forces took over the provisional orders for the DC-4 from airlines and assigned them the military designation C-54 Skymaster. The first production C-54 flew in February 1942.

Describe the initial modifications made to the DC-4 for military use during World War II.

To meet military requirements, the first production aircraft were equipped with four auxiliary fuel tanks in the main cabin, which reduced the passenger seating capacity to 26. These early aircraft were designated C-54.

What were the key improvements introduced with the C-54A variant?

The C-54A was the first batch built specifically to military specifications. It featured a stronger floor and a cargo door equipped with a hoist and winch, enhancing its utility for transporting military supplies. The first C-54A was delivered in February 1943.

How did the C-54B variant enhance the aircraft's range and capacity?

The C-54B variant, introduced in March 1944, incorporated changes to the outer wings to hold integral fuel tanks. This modification allowed for the removal of two cabin fuel tanks, freeing up space for either 49 passenger seats or 16 stretchers for medical evacuation.

What was unique about the C-54C variant?

The C-54C was a specialized hybrid variant designed for Presidential use. It combined the fuselage of the C-54A with the wings of the C-54B, which featured built-in fuel tanks, to achieve maximum operational range.

Which variant became the most common, and what engine upgrade did it feature?

The C-54D was the most common variant, entering service in August 1944. It was essentially a C-54B but equipped with more powerful Pratt & Whitney R-2000-11 engines.

How did the C-54E variant further optimize the aircraft for cargo or passenger transport?

The C-54E variant relocated the final two cabin fuel tanks into the wings. This reconfiguration allowed for increased cargo capacity or the installation of 44 passenger seats.

What was the total number of military C-54/R5D aircraft produced, and when was production completed?

A total of 1,163 C-54 aircraft (or R5D in U.S. Navy service) were manufactured for the United States military between 1942 and January 1946. An additional 79 DC-4s were built after the war.

What Canadian variant of the DC-4 was developed, and what powered it?

A Canadian variant known as the Canadair North Star was built. It was powered by Rolls-Royce Merlin engines, which allowed it to fly significantly faster than the standard DC-4.

How many DC-4s and C-54s were utilized in the Berlin Airlift?

A substantial fleet of 330 DC-4s and C-54s participated in the Berlin Airlift, making them one of the most numerous aircraft types involved in the operation.

What was the approximate cost of a new DC-4 in the late 1940s?

In the period of 1946-1947, the price for a new DC-4 was approximately £140,000 to £160,000. This is equivalent to roughly £8.4 million in 2023.

How did the price of a used DC-4 compare to a new one in 1960?

By 1960, the cost of a used DC-4 had significantly decreased, available for around £80,000, which is equivalent to approximately £2.3 million in 2023.

Which airlines were among the early purchasers of new-build DC-4s for international routes?

Several international airlines purchased new-build DC-4s, including KLM Royal Dutch Air Lines, Scandinavian Airlines System, Iberia Airlines of Spain, Swissair, Air France, Sabena Belgian World Airlines, Cubana de Aviación, Avianca, Aerolíneas Argentinas, Aeropostal of Venezuela, and South African Airways. Aerolíneas Argentinas, Iberia, and Cubana de Aviación were among the earliest to use them for scheduled transatlantic flights between Latin America and Europe.

Were the civilian DC-4 aircraft pressurized?

No, all civilian DC-4s and C-54s were built without cabin pressurization, although pressurization was offered as an option.

What role did ex-military C-54s and R5Ds play in the post-war civilian market?

Following the war, approximately 500 ex-military C-54s and R5Ds became available on the civilian market. Many of these were converted to DC-4 standards by Douglas, providing a significant number of aircraft for commercial operations.

Which charter airlines were significant operators of the DC-4?

DC-4s were favored by charter airlines such as Great Lakes Airlines, North American Airlines, Universal Airlines, and Transocean Airlines. In the 1950s, Transocean Airlines, based in Oakland, California, was the largest civilian operator of the C-54/DC-4.

When was the last new-build DC-4 delivered, and to which airline?

The final new-build DC-4 was delivered on August 9, 1947, to South African Airways.

What is the current operational status of the Douglas DC-4?

As of recent information, the Douglas DC-4 is in very limited use. A few remain operational, primarily for charter flights and specialized roles, with some still flying commercially.

Where are the last known passenger DC-4s operating, and who operates them?

The last two passenger DC-4s operating worldwide are based in Johannesburg, South Africa. They are flown by Skyclass Aviation on behalf of the South African Airways Museum Society, carrying historical South African Airways livery.

Besides passenger charters, what other roles are surviving DC-4s fulfilling?

Surviving DC-4s are used in various capacities. One is a flying museum dedicated to the Berlin Airlift (the *Spirit of Freedom*), another is undergoing restoration in Australia, and one is equipped with spray bars for oil pollution control.

What are the key dimensions of the Douglas DC-4-1009 variant?

The DC-4-1009 has a length of 93 feet 10 inches (28.60 meters), a wingspan of 117 feet 6 inches (35.81 meters), and a height of 27 feet 6 inches (8.38 meters).

What type of engines powered the standard DC-4-1009, and what was their output?

The DC-4-1009 was powered by four Pratt & Whitney R-2000-2SD13-G Twin Wasp radial piston engines. Each engine produced 1,450 horsepower (1,080 kW) for takeoff.

What was the maximum speed and cruise speed of the DC-4-1009?

The maximum speed of the DC-4-1009 was 280 mph (450 km/h) at 14,000 feet. Its cruise speed was 227 mph (365 km/h) at 10,000 feet (using 60% power), with a maximum cruise speed of 246 mph at 20,800 feet.

What was the typical range and ferry range of the DC-4-1009?

The typical operational range of the DC-4-1009 was 3,300 miles (5,300 km). With the use of alternative inner wing fuel cells, its ferry range could extend to 4,250 miles (6,840 km).

What were the passenger capacity options for the DC-4?

The DC-4 could accommodate different passenger configurations. It could carry 44 passengers with baggage and freight in a day transport layout, 22 passengers with baggage and freight in a sleeper transport configuration, and later, up to 86 passengers in a high-density seating arrangement.

What is the Canadair North Star variant, and how does it differ from the DC-4?

The Canadair North Star is a variant of the DC-4 produced in Canada. Its primary difference lies in its powerplant; it was equipped with Rolls-Royce Merlin engines, which enabled it to fly over 40% faster than the standard DC-4. One example was also built with Pratt & Whitney R-2800 engines.

Describe the Aviation Traders Carvair variant.

The Aviation Traders Carvair was a British conversion of the DC-4, specifically adapted for cargo and car ferry operations. It featured a significantly modified nose with a raised cockpit to facilitate easier loading of vehicles.

What is the significance of the DC-4E in relation to the DC-4?

The Douglas DC-4E was the predecessor to the DC-4. It was a larger, 52-seat airliner that was found to be too inefficient and unreliable, leading Douglas to redesign it into the more successful DC-4A.

What is the current status of the Douglas DC-4 in terms of operational use?

The Douglas DC-4 is now rarely seen in active service. While a few examples are preserved and some are maintained in airworthy condition for specialized operations like charters or historical displays, its widespread commercial use concluded decades ago. As of June 2020, two were used for charters in South Africa, and Buffalo Airways in Canada continued to operate the type commercially.

What were the primary users of the DC-4 historically?

Historically, major airlines such as United Airlines, American Airlines, and Trans World Airlines were significant operators of the DC-4. Military users included the U.S. Army Air Forces and the U.S. Navy (as R5D). Post-war, numerous international carriers also operated the type.

What is the total number of DC-4 aircraft built by Douglas?

Douglas built 80 DC-4 aircraft after the war. This is in addition to the 1,163 military C-54/R5D variants produced during and immediately after World War II.

What was the empty weight and maximum takeoff weight of the DC-4-1009?

The empty weight of the DC-4-1009 was 43,300 pounds (19,641 kg), and its maximum takeoff weight was 73,000 pounds (33,112 kg).

Which aircraft are listed as developments of the DC-4?

The DC-4 served as a basis for further development, leading to the Aviation Traders ATL-98 Carvair and the Douglas DC-6.

What is the significance of the 'Spirit of Freedom' aircraft?

The 'Spirit of Freedom' is a 1945-built DC-4 (C-54D) operated by the Berlin Airlift Historical Foundation. It serves as a flying museum dedicated to commemorating the Berlin Airlift, replacing a previous C-54 that was damaged.

What type of landing gear system did the DC-4 utilize?

The Douglas DC-4 retained a tricycle landing gear system, which consists of a nose wheel and two main wheels under the fuselage or wings.

What was the wing area of the DC-4-1009?

The wing area of the DC-4-1009 was 1,460 square feet (136 square meters).

How many propellers did the DC-4 have, and what was their diameter?

The DC-4 was equipped with four engines, each driving a three-bladed Hamilton-Standard Hydromatic propeller. These propellers had a diameter of 13 feet 1 inch (3.99 meters).

What was the maximum takeoff weight specified for the DC-4-1009?

The maximum takeoff weight for the DC-4-1009 was specified as 73,000 pounds (33,112 kg).

What was the fuel capacity of the DC-4-1009?

The DC-4-1009 had a normal fuel capacity of 2,868 US gallons (10,860 liters). This could be increased to 3,592 US gallons (13,600 liters) with the installation of alternative inner wing fuel tanks.

What is the current status of the DC-4 aircraft mentioned in the 'Surviving aircraft' section?

The 'Surviving aircraft' section notes that very few DC-4s remain in service. Specifically, two are used for charters in South Africa, one is on display in Australia awaiting restoration, one serves as a flying museum for the Berlin Airlift, and another is based in Florida on standby for oil pollution control.

What was the approximate number of DC-4s and C-54s built in total by Douglas?

In total, Douglas built 1,163 military C-54/R5D variants and 79 post-war DC-4s, bringing the combined total to approximately 1,242 aircraft. The article also states 1,245 were built between May 1942 and August 1947.

What were the primary airfoil designations used on the DC-4's wings?

The DC-4 utilized NACA airfoils, specifically the NACA 23016 at the wing root and the NACA 23012 at the wing tip.

What was the power-to-mass ratio of the DC-4-1009 at maximum gross weight?

The power-to-mass ratio for the DC-4-1009 at maximum gross weight, using takeoff power, was 0.0787 horsepower per pound (0.1294 kW/kg).

Which historical airlines operated the DC-4, according to the text?

Historically, airlines such as United Airlines, American Airlines, Trans World Airlines, Pan American Airways, National Airlines, Northwest Airlines, Western Airlines, KLM Royal Dutch Air Lines, Scandinavian Airlines System, Iberia Airlines, Swissair, Air France, Sabena Belgian World Airlines, Cubana de Aviación, Avianca, Aerolíneas Argentinas, Aeropostal of Venezuela, and South African Airways operated the DC-4.

What is the significance of the 'DC-4' redirect mentioned at the beginning of the article?

The article notes that 'DC-4' redirects from a disambiguation page. This indicates that the term 'DC-4' might also refer to the original, distinct aircraft designated 'Douglas DC-4E' or other uses listed on the 'DC4 (disambiguation)' page.

What was the wing loading of the DC-4-1009 at its maximum gross weight?

The wing loading of the DC-4-1009 at its maximum gross weight was 50.1 pounds per square foot (245 kg/m²).

What were the main differences between the DC-4 and its military counterparts, the C-54 and R5D?

While based on the same fundamental design, the military C-54 and R5D variants incorporated specific modifications for military use. These included auxiliary fuel tanks in the cabin, stronger floors, cargo doors with hoists, integral fuel tanks in the wings, and configurations for carrying cargo, troops, or stretchers, differing from the standard passenger configurations of the civilian DC-4.

Douglas Dc-4 Wiki: The Douglas DC-4: A Legacy in Global Aviation

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Overview

A Pioneer of Air Travel

The Douglas DC-4 represents a significant milestone in aviation history. Developed by the Douglas Aircraft Company, this American four-engine, propeller-driven airliner became a workhorse for numerous airlines worldwide following its military service during World War II and its crucial role in the Berlin Airlift. Its robust design and capacity paved the way for widespread commercial air travel.

Global Reach

From its introduction in 1942, the DC-4 facilitated long-distance travel and cargo transport across continents. Its reliability and range made it a favorite for both major carriers and charter operations, connecting diverse regions and contributing substantially to the expansion of global air routes in the post-war era.

Enduring Design

While initially developed from the more complex DC-4E, the production DC-4A featured a simplified, unpressurized fuselage and reliable Pratt & Whitney R-2000 Twin Wasp engines. Its tricycle landing gear configuration was a forward-thinking design choice that enhanced ground handling and safety.

Design and Development

Evolution from the DC-4E

The journey to the production DC-4 began with the ambitious but flawed DC-4E. Following its proving flights, airlines identified inefficiencies and reliability issues. Douglas Aircraft Company responded by developing an entirely new, more streamlined design, designated the DC-4A. This iteration featured a simpler fuselage, dependable Pratt & Whitney R-2000 Twin Wasp engines, and a single fin and rudder, while retaining the advanced tricycle landing gear.

Military Adaptation and Wartime Production

With the United States' entry into World War II, the provisional orders for the DC-4A were absorbed by the U.S. Army Air Forces, which designated it the C-54 Skymaster. The first C-54 flew in February 1942. Military requirements led to variants like the C-54A, featuring enhanced structural integrity and cargo capacity, and the C-54B, which incorporated integral fuel tanks in the wings. The C-54D became the most common variant, equipped with more powerful engines.

Post-War Civilian Conversion

After the war, hundreds of ex-military C-54s and R5Ds were converted to DC-4 standard and entered the civilian market. Douglas also produced 79 new-build DC-4s between 1946 and 1947. While pressurization was an option, most civilian DC-4s remained unpressurized, serving effectively in various roles.

Operational History

Bridging Continents

The DC-4 quickly became a staple for major airlines like Pan American Airways, National Airlines, Northwest Airlines, KLM, SAS, Iberia, Swissair, Air France, Sabena, Cubana de Aviación, Avianca, and Aerolíneas Argentinas. It enabled the launch of scheduled transatlantic flights, connecting passengers and cargo between North America, South America, and Europe.

The Berlin Airlift

During the Berlin Airlift (1948-1949), the DC-4 and its military counterpart, the C-54, played a pivotal role. A total of 330 of these aircraft were involved, forming a significant portion of the airlift fleet that supplied West Berlin. Their reliability and cargo capacity were instrumental in the success of this critical humanitarian mission.

Charter Operations and Longevity

In the 1950s, the DC-4 was a preferred aircraft for charter airlines such as Transocean Airlines, which became one of the largest civilian operators. Many aircraft found continued service well into the late 20th century, with some remaining operational for specialized roles even today.

Key Variants

Civil Variants

The primary civilian model was the DC-4, produced post-war. It served as the basis for numerous airline fleets, offering configurations for passenger transport (typically 44 passengers) and cargo. Douglas produced 79 new-build DC-4s after the war.

Military Designations

Military versions included the C-54 Skymaster (United States Army Air Forces/Air Force) and R5D (United States Navy). These variants saw extensive service during World War II and beyond, including the Berlin Airlift. Key sub-variants included the C-54A through C-54E, each with incremental improvements in fuel capacity, engines, or structural design.

Canadian Production

Canadair North Star: Built in Canada, this variant was initially powered by Rolls-Royce Merlin engines, offering improved speed. Later versions utilized Pratt & Whitney R-2800 engines. It served with various operators, including Trans-Canada Air Lines.

Specialized Conversions

Aviation Traders Carvair: A British conversion that significantly modified the DC-4's fuselage, raising the cockpit and creating a large forward-opening cargo door. It was designed specifically for car ferry operations, enabling vehicles to be driven directly into the aircraft.

Specifications (DC-4-1009)

The following table details the technical specifications for the Douglas DC-4-1009 variant, representing a typical configuration of this robust aircraft.

General Characteristics
Crew	4
Capacity	Day transport: 44 passengers with baggage and freight; Sleeper transport: 22 passengers with baggage and freight; High density seating: up to 86
Length	93 ft 10 in (28.60 m)
Wingspan	117 ft 6 in (35.81 m)
Height	27 ft 6 in (8.38 m)
Wing area	1,460 sq ft (136 m²)
Airfoil	Root: NACA 23016; Tip: NACA 23012
Empty weight	43,300 lb (19,641 kg)
Gross weight	63,500 lb (28,803 kg)
Max takeoff weight	73,000 lb (33,112 kg)
Fuel capacity	2,868 US gal (10,860 L) normal; 3,592 US gal (13,600 L) with alternative inner wing tanks

Powerplant
Type	4 × Pratt & Whitney R-2000-2SD13-G Twin Wasp 14-cylinder radial piston engines, 1,450 hp (1,080 kW) each for take-off (1,100 hp / 820 kW at 14,000 ft)
Propellers	3-bladed Hamilton-Standard Hydromatic, 13 ft 1 in (3.99 m) diameter constant-speed propellers

Performance
Maximum speed	280 mph (450 km/h, 240 kn) at 14,000 ft (4,300 m)
Cruise speed	227 mph (365 km/h, 197 kn) at 60% power at 10,000 ft (3,000 m)
Maximum cruise speed	246 mph (214 kn; 396 km/h) in high blower at 20,800 ft (6,300 m)
Range	3,300 mi (5,300 km, 2,900 nmi) at 10% above max L/D speed
Ferry range	4,250 mi (6,840 km, 3,690 nmi) with inner wing fuel cells
Wing loading	50.1 lb/sq ft (245 kg/m²) at maximum gross weight
Power/mass	0.0787 hp/lb (0.1294 kW/kg) at maximum gross weight with take-off power

Surviving Aircraft

Preserved and Operational

Remarkably, a few Douglas DC-4s continue to exist, with some remaining operational or undergoing restoration. These aircraft serve as tangible links to a significant era of aviation.

South Africa: Two DC-4s (ZS-AUB Outeniqua and ZS-BMH Lebombo) are based in Johannesburg, flying in historical South African Airways livery. They are operated by Skyclass Aviation for classic and VIP charters.
Australia: A 1944-built DC-4/C-54 is undergoing restoration to airworthiness at the Historical Aircraft Restoration Society in New South Wales.
United States: The Berlin Airlift Historical Foundation operates a 1945-built DC-4 (C-54D) named Spirit of Freedom as a flying museum dedicated to the Berlin Airlift.
Specialized Roles: An ex-Buffalo Airways DC-4, fitted with spray bars, is based in Florida and remains on standby for oil pollution control duties.

Legacy and Related Aircraft

Direct Descendants

The DC-4's success directly influenced the development of subsequent Douglas propliners. Its design principles and operational experience informed the creation of the larger, pressurized, and faster Douglas DC-6 and Douglas DC-7 series, which further defined long-range air travel in the 1950s.

Derivatives and Conversions

Beyond the direct Douglas lineage, the DC-4 platform spawned notable derivatives. The Canadair North Star, a Canadian-built variant, offered enhanced performance. The unique Aviation Traders Carvair demonstrated the adaptability of the airframe for specialized cargo roles, particularly vehicle transport.

Enduring Influence

The DC-4's robust construction, reliability, and significant carrying capacity established it as a cornerstone of early commercial aviation. Its widespread adoption and critical role in historical events like the Berlin Airlift cement its status as a truly pivotal aircraft in the history of global transportation.

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References

A full list of references for this article are available at the Douglas DC-4 Wikipedia page

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Important Notice

This page has been generated by an Artificial Intelligence and is intended for informational and educational purposes only. The content is derived from publicly available data and may not be exhaustive or entirely up-to-date. While efforts have been made to ensure accuracy based on the provided source, it does not substitute for official documentation or expert consultation.

This is not professional aviation advice. The information presented here is not a substitute for consulting official aircraft manuals, maintenance logs, or seeking guidance from qualified aviation professionals, engineers, or historians. Always refer to authoritative sources for critical operational or technical details.

The creators of this page are not responsible for any errors or omissions, or for any actions taken based on the information provided herein.

The Douglas DC-4

💡 Dive in with Flashcard Learning! 💡

Overview ℹ️

✈️ A Pioneer of Air Travel

🌍 Global Reach

⚙️ Enduring Design

Design and Development ⚙️

📜 Evolution from the DC-4E

🚀 Military Adaptation and Wartime Production

📦 Post-War Civilian Conversion

Operational History ⏳

🌉 Bridging Continents

🌉 The Berlin Airlift

🛠️ Charter Operations and Longevity

Key Variants 🧩

✈️ Civil Variants

🎖️ Military Designations

🇨🇦 Canadian Production

🚚 Specialized Conversions

Specifications (DC-4-1009) 📊

Surviving Aircraft 🗄️

🌟 Preserved and Operational

Legacy and Related Aircraft 🔗

➡️ Direct Descendants

🔄 Derivatives and Conversions

🏛️ Enduring Influence

Teacher's Corner 🧑‍🏫

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References

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Disclaimer ⚠️

📜 Important Notice

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

Overview

A Pioneer of Air Travel

Global Reach

Enduring Design

Design and Development

Evolution from the DC-4E

Military Adaptation and Wartime Production

Post-War Civilian Conversion

Operational History

Bridging Continents

The Berlin Airlift

Charter Operations and Longevity

Key Variants

Civil Variants

Military Designations

Canadian Production

Specialized Conversions

Specifications (DC-4-1009)

Surviving Aircraft

Preserved and Operational

Legacy and Related Aircraft

Direct Descendants

Derivatives and Conversions

Enduring Influence

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Disclaimer

Important Notice