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Curtiss C-46 Commando facts for kids

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C-46 Commando
C-46 Commando.jpg
A wartime photograph of a US Army Air Forces (USAAF) C-46 Commando
Role Military transport aircraft
National origin United States
Manufacturer Curtiss-Wright
First flight 26 March 1940
Introduction 1941
Status Active in limited civilian use
Primary users United States Army Air Forces
United States Air Force
United States Marine Corps
United States Navy
Produced 1940–1945
Number built 3,181

The Curtiss C-46 Commando was a large American cargo airplane. It was mainly used by the US Army Air Forces and the US Navy. This powerful aircraft played a big role in World War II and later in the Korean War. The US Navy called it the R5C-1. After 1945, many C-46s were sold to airlines all over the world. People sometimes confuse it with the Douglas C-47 Skytrain, another famous transport plane from that era.

The C-46 Commando: A Wartime Workhorse

The C-46 Commando was designed by the Curtiss-Wright company. It first flew in 1940 and was introduced in 1941. This plane was built to carry a lot of cargo and many people. It was one of the biggest twin-engine aircraft used during World War II.

Flying During World War II

During World War II, the C-46 Commando was very important. It carried supplies, equipment, and troops to battlefields. It also helped evacuate wounded soldiers. One of its most famous jobs was flying over "The Hump." This was a dangerous route over the Himalayan Mountains. It supplied Chinese and Allied forces fighting against Japan. The C-46 was known for its ability to fly at high altitudes with heavy loads.

After the Wars: Civilian Life

After World War II ended in 1945, many C-46 planes were no longer needed by the military. They were then sold to civilian airlines and cargo companies. These planes continued to serve as reliable cargo carriers for many years. Some C-46s are still flying today, mostly for cargo in remote areas. This shows how tough and well-built these aircraft were.

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See also

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