Douglas C-124C Globemaster II

Douglas · United States · first flew 1949 · transport aircraft

The Douglas C-124 Globemaster II was the primary heavy strategic transport of the USAF during the 1950s, capable of carrying outsize cargo through its distinctive clamshell nose doors.

Recognition (WEFT)

WEFT is AircraftIQ's four-point recognition method — how it works.

Spot it by:

• Massive four-radial-engine USAF heavy lifter
• Double-deck fuselage with clamshell nose doors
• Bulbous fuselage nicknamed 'Old Shakey'

Unmistakable double-deck fuselage with a very deep oval cross-section, clamshell nose doors for straight-in loading, four large radial engines under a high straight wing, and a massive single-fin tail.

Specifications

• The Douglas C-124C Globemaster II has a length of 39.75 m (130 ft).
• It has a wingspan of 53.09 m (174 ft).
• Its maximum speed is 482 km/h (300 mph).
• Typical crew: 8-11.

Figures are for the representative variant described above; marks differ. See how AircraftIQ sources figures.

History

First flying in 1949, the C-124 was developed from the experimental XC-99 and the C-74. It became the workhorse of Military Air Transport Service (MATS) through the Korean War era and into the early jet age, earning the nickname 'Old Shakey' from its crews.

Variants

The C-124A was the initial production version; the C-124C introduced Pratt & Whitney R-4360-63A engines and improved systems; a total of 448 were built.

Where you'll see it

The USAF operated C-124s from 1950 until 1974, when the last examples were retired in favour of jet transports such as the C-141 Starlifter.

Related aircraft

• Douglas C-124 Globemaster II
• Douglas Cloudster II
• Douglas A2D Skyshark
• Douglas C-118B Liftmaster
• Beriev Be-6
• Fairchild C-119C Flying Boxcar
• Fairchild C-123 Provider
• Fairchild C-123K Provider

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