USAF C-133B Cargomaster 590524.zip 2024-05-23

The C-133 was conceived as an air transport for the USA's large missiles, and was designed to meet the requirements for the USAF’s Logistic Carrier Support System. The Douglas designed C-133 Cargomaster first flew on 23 April 1956. In fact, Douglas built 50 of the turboprop powered C-133 Cargomasters from 1956 to 1961. It was the largest turboprop transport ever to be accepted by the U.S. Air Force. In 1958 the C-133s began flying MATS air routes throughout the world, and two Dover based C-133s established transatlantic speed records for transport aircraft on their first flights to Europe. The fleet of 50 aircraft proved itself invaluable during the Vietnam War, but fatigue problems led to their withdrawal from service in 1971. The aircraft was a marvel in its era, but it was soon under the microscope as the accidents started accumulating. Throughout the 15 year service of the C-133 9 were destroyed in accidents and one was written off. Having said that, the C-133 was the first wave of turboprop and jet powered giants to come onto the scene in the post piston engine era, and was followed by the C-141, and the giant of them all the C-5 Galaxy. This aircraft, 590524, was with the 60th Military Airlift Wing MAC. It was retired on Jun 16, 1971, and scrapped by end of 1974.