Convair XP5Y-1 & R3Y-1/2 Tradewind: 34 (Naval Fighters) - Softcover

Ginter, Steve

Softcover

ISBN 10: 0942612345 ISBN 13: 9780942612349

Publisher: Specialty Press, 1996

Synopsis

The Tradewind was one of the largest operational flying boats ever built. The 124,000 lb. XP5Y-1 was ordered in August 1946 and was to be powered by four Allison XT-40 six-bladed, counter-rotating turbo-prop engines. The aircraft utilized the latest hull design concepts which produced a long and sleek looking aircraft. Due to engine development problems, the first flight was delayed to April 18, 1950. Besides the XP5Y-1, six R3Y-1 and five R3Y-2 transport aircraft were built. The first six aircraft had side cargo doors while the last five were built as bow-loaders. The bow-loaders increased the personnel load from 80 to 103 in the troop transport mode, and as an air ambulance, the litters were increased from 72 with 8 attendants to 92 with 12 attendants. The loading deck area was 88 feet long and 9 feet wide. The aircraft were primarily used on the Alameda to Hawaii run in 1956 were converted into aerial tankers with four drogue and reel assemblies. The aircraft were operated until April 16, 1958.

About this title

About the Author:

Upon graduation from college, Steve Ginter was commissioned an officer in the U.S. Navy and became a pilot. After leaving the Navy he entered into corporate human resources at the management level. Steve Ginter founded Ginter Books, Naval Fighters Series in 1980 while working in district and regional management positions for Thrifty Drugs. In the 1990s the Air Force Legends Series was launched. Between the two series, over 112 books have been published thus far promoting the colorful history of military aircraft in America.

About this edition

• Publisher: Specialty Press
• Publication date: 1996
• ISBN 10: 0942612345
• ISBN 13: 9780942612349
• Binding: Paperback
• Number of pages: 122