Fairchild C-123B Provider

A picture of the Fairchild C-123B Provider

The C-123 began in 1949, as a design for an all-metal cargo glider from Chase Aircraft.  It was designed from the beginning to be easily converted to a powered cargo aircraft and the first powered prototype flew in October 1949.  Chase Aircraft produced five flight testing aircraft before difficulties within the company resulted in the Air Force canceling the contract with them and turning further development and production of the aircraft over to Fairchild in June 1953.  A total of 302 C-123Bs were produced for the U.S. Air Force.  In 1960, eight Providers were transferred to the U.S. Coast Guard.  They were primarily used for logistics support, but also saw service in search and rescue operations.  Two aircraft, including this one, were modified to assist in the development of the LORAN-C navigation system.

Wingspan

110 ft

Length

75 ft 9 in.

Height

34 ft 1 in.

Weight

60,000 lbs (loaded)

Maximum Speed

245 MPH

Service Ceiling

29,000 ft

Range

1,470 miles

Engines

Two Pratt & Whitney R-2800-99W radials with 2,300 horsepower each

Crew

2 with 61 passengers

Manufacturer
Fairchild

Markings
U.S. Coast Guard, Miami, Florida, 1972

Designation
C-123B

Registration
USCG 4505

Serial Number
55-4505

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