What was the largest operational flying boat of World War…

What was the largest operational flying boat of World War II?

Short answer

The Blohm & Voss BV 222 Wiking was the largest Axis flying boat to reach production and operational service during the Second World War. Its first example, the V1, flew on 7 September 1940. Over short distances it could carry up to 92 passengers or 72 stretcher cases.

Published: November 5, 2026 · Updated: November 5, 2026 · Edited by Above Ten Thousand · Editorial policy

What was the largest operational flying boat of World War II?

Bundesarchiv Bild 146-1978-061-09, Großflugboot BV 222 "WikingUnknownUnknown (CC BY SA), vía commons

A civilian project for the Atlantic

Luft Hansa drew up the requirement for a new large flying boat to serve on its transatlantic routes. The design team was led by Dr. Richard Vogt. The result, the BV 222 Wiking, was the largest Axis flying boat to enter production and operational service during the Second World War. It was intended for a minimum of 24 passengers and, over short distances, could carry up to 92 passengers or 72 stretcher cases.

First flights and wartime use

On 7 September 1940, the first aircraft, designated V1, made its maiden flight. By 19 August 1941, the V1 had completed seven flights. The BV 222 carried supplies for the Afrika Korps, flying 17 sorties between 16 October and 6 November 1941. One example was flown by Captain Eric "Winkle" Brown from Norway to RAF Calshot in 1946.

The BV 238, the heaviest ever built

The BV 238, also from Blohm & Voss, was the heaviest aircraft ever built when it first flew, in 1944. Flight testing of its first prototype began in March 1945. That aircraft was strafed and partially sunk while moored on Lake Schaal.