Douglas DC-2 variant
Douglas DC-2 C-38
The first C-33 modified with a DC-3 tail and 975 hp R-1820-45 engines; prototype of the C-39.
Image pending
- 1
- Units built
- 1,770 km
- Range
History
The link between the DC-2 and the DC-3
The C-38 is a single aircraft: the first C-33 modified with a DC-3-style tail section and two Wright R-1820-45 engines of 975 hp (727 kW) each. It was originally designated C-33A and later redesignated as the prototype for the C-39 variant.
Its interest lies in what it announces. The Air Corps wanted DC-3 capability without waiting for a military transport of its own, and the quickest route was to mix: DC-2 fuselage and wings with DC-3 tail, centre section and landing gear. That hybrid, the C-39, was built in 35 examples and was the Air Corps's standard transport on the eve of the war.