The C-118 Liftmaster was a long-range military transport aircraft developed by the American firm Douglas, based on the civilian DC-6 transport aircraft. Alongside civilian DC-6 production, 166 aircraft were built for the U.S. Air Force and U.S. Navy. The aircraft belonging to the Air Force were designated C-118A.
Presidential and VIP Service
The twenty-ninth DC-6 produced became President Truman’s personal aircraft. This was the VC-118 Independence, which featured a cabin for 24 passengers, or 12 berths for rest during night flights, and a workspace.
Military Designations and Wider Adoption
For the U.S. Navy, 61 R6D-1 aircraft and four R6D-1Z variants with VIP cabins were in operation. In 1962, their designations changed to C-118B and VC-118B, respectively. Other military services also ordered DC-6 aircraft, most of which had previously served as civilian models.
Technical Specifications
| Modification | C-118A |
| Wingspan, m | 35.81 |
| Length, m | 32.56 |
| Height, m | 8.74 |
| Wing area, m2 | 135.92 |
| Empty weight | 23358 |
| Maximum takeoff weight | 48534 |
| Internal fuel, l | 20914 |
| Engine type | 4 Piston engines Pratt Whitney R-2800-52W |
| Power, hp | 4 x 2500 |
| Maximum speed, km/h | 573 |
| Cruising speed, km/h | 504 |
| Practical range, km | 6184 |
| Practical ceiling, m | 8505 |
| Crew, crew members | 4 |
| Payload | 74 soldiers or 60 stretchers with attendants or 12247 kg of cargo |
Image and diagram gallery of the C-118 Liftmaster
 C-118 Liftmaster |
 C-118 Liftmaster |
 C-118 Liftmaster |
 C-118 Liftmaster |
 C-118 Liftmaster |