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Lockheed R6V Constitution
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Specifications

    Primary Function:
    Crew:
    Engines:
    Power:
    Weight Empty:
    Max. Weight:
    Fuel Capacity:
    Seating:
    Length:
    Wingspan:
    Cruise Speed:
    Max. Speed:
    Initial Climb:
    Ceiling:
    Range:
    First Flight:
long range transport
twelve
P&W radials
4 x 3,000 hp. ea.
113,780 lbs.
184,000 lbs.
n/a gals.
168 passengers
156' 1"
189' 1"
265 mph
300 mph
850 fpm
29,000 feet
5,400 miles
11/9/46







In the early 1940's the United States Navy and Pan American Airways approached Lockheed Corp. with the idea of developing what would be the largest aircraft ever flown by the United States Navy, the Lockheed R6V Constitution. Their purpose, during the War, would be the transportation of large numbers of troops and supplies at high speeds over long distances. Pan American was also interested in exploring the possibilities of such aircraft for commercial use.

The aircraft, originally designated R6O by the U.S. Navy, eventually flew in 1946, too late to be of use during WWII. A second prototype aircraft joined the first by 1948. They flew a number of flights, generally for Navy promotional purposes, until being retired in 1953.

The primary shortcomings of the aircraft were that there were no engines of sufficient power to propel them. Therefore they could not be used to their full potential. Not only were the aircraft underpowered, but they could not fly their specified payloads and ranges.

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