Douglas C-117

The designation C-117 was given to two very different versions of the DC-3, first to a more comfortable version of the basic C-53 and then to the Navy’s fleet of R4D-8 Super DC-3s.

C-117A

By 1944 the early shortage of transport aircraft had been overcome, and the USAAF was able to turn its attention to comfort. The result was the C-117. This aircraft had the same engines as the C-47B, with two stage superchargers to give an improved high altitude performance, but like the C-53 it lacked the reinforced cargo floor of the standard C-47, and retained the small airline style entrance door. Most importantly they were given a 21-seat airline type interior. Seventeen C-117s were produced, some with swivelling seats to allow the passengers to hold airborne conferences. 

C-117B

Eleven of the C-117As later had their high level supercharger removed, and were redesignated as C-117Bs.

C-117C

The designation C-117C was given to a number of existing VC-47A staff transports that were given the more luxurious interior of the C-117.

C-117D

In 1962 the separate Navy and Air Force aircraft designation systems were replaced by a slightly modified version of the Air Force system and every existing Navy aircraft was given a new designation. Despite being a substantially different aircraft to the standard C-117, the Navy’s R4D-8s (Super DC-3s) were redesignated as the C-117D. These aircraft had a longer fuselage and a larger tail than the C-47, and a swept back trailing edge on the wings. The C-117D remained in Marine Corps service until July 1976.

C-117A
Engines: R-1830-90C
Power: 1,200hp
Wing span: 95ft 0in
Length: 64ft 6in
Height: 16ft 8in
Empty weight: 17,480lb
Loaded weight: 25,000lb
Maximum weight: 30,000lb
Maximum speed: 230mph at 12,500ft
Cruising speed: 160mph
Service ceiling: 26,400ft
Normal range: 1,600 miles
Maximum range: 3,600 miles

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