Entry into Military Service
When the United States entered World War II at the end of 1941, twenty-seven of the Boeing Model 247D aircraft still operating on civilian air routes were requisitioned. These aircraft were designated as C-73 for service with the United States Army Air Forces (USAAF).
The C-73s performed crucial roles during the war, being primarily used for crew transport and as training aircraft. Their robustness and reliability were essential for these tasks.
Specifications and Return to Civilian Use
In operation, these aircraft were equipped with Pratt & Whitney R-1340-AN-1 Wasp radial engines. These powerful engines provided the necessary performance for their transport and training missions.
By the end of 1944, when the need for these aircraft diminished as the war progressed, they were demobilized and returned to civil airlines, resuming their commercial functions.
Technical Specifications
| Modification | S-73 |
| Wingspan, m | 22.56 |
| Length, m | 15.72 |
| Height, m | 3.60 |
| Wing area, m2 | 77.66 |
| Empty weight | 4148 |
| Normal takeoff weight | 6192 |
| Engine type | 2 Piston engines Pratt Whitney R-1340-AN-1 Wasp |
| Power, hp | 2 x 600 |
| Maximum speed, km/h | 322 |
| Cruising speed, km/h | 304 |
| Practical range, km | 1199 |
| Practical ceiling, m | 7740 |
| Crew, crew members | 3 |
| Payload: | 10 passengers |
Image and diagram gallery of the Boeing C-73
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