International Red Cross Boeing C-97G Stratofreighter

The Boeing C-97 was developed after a request by the U.S. Army Air Forces for a transport aircraft based on the B-29. The landing gear wings and tail from the B-29 were adapted for use with a distinctive “double bubble” pressurized fuselage to create the C-97. First flown in 1945 the C-97 proved to be a very successful and versatile aircraft. Boeing modified the design slightly to create their first post-war airliner, the Boeing 377. Later C-97s were modified to serve as aerial refueling tankers by the USAF. C-97s and 377s also served as the basis for the giant “Super Guppy” transports.