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The Boeing C-97 was developed after a request by the U.S. Army Air Forces for a transport aircraft based on the B-29. The landing gear wings and tail from the B-29 were adapted for use with a distinctive �double bubble� pressurized fuselage to create the C-97. First flown in 1945 the C-97 proved to be a very successful and versatile aircraft. Boeing modified the design slightly to create their first post-war airliner, the Boeing 377. The KC-97G is the second and most numerous factory-built tanker version of the Stratofreighter. The main distinguishing feature of the KC-97G was the addition of 700-gallon external fuel tanks under each wing.
All photographs and text copyright Arizona Aerospace Foundation, 2009 and may not be used in any way without express written permission.
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| Wingspan |
141 ft 3 in |
| Length |
110ft 4 in |
| Height |
38 ft 3 in |
| Weight |
142,500 lbs (loaded) |
| Maximum Speed |
340 mph |
| Service Ceiling |
33,000 ft |
| Range |
4,200 miles |
| Engines |
4 Pratt & Whitney R-4360 Wasp Major radials, 3,500 hp each |
| Crew |
5 |
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