What is convair xc-99?

The Convair XC-99 was a prototype heavy cargo aircraft developed by the Convair division of General Dynamics for the United States Air Force. It was the largest piston-powered land-based transport aircraft ever built, with a wingspan of 230 feet and a length of 182 feet.

The XC-99 was developed in the late 1940s as a response to the Air Force's need for a large transport aircraft capable of carrying heavy cargo over long distances. It was based on the design of the B-36 Peacemaker bomber, which was also produced by Convair.

The XC-99 was powered by six Pratt & Whitney R-4360 Wasp Major radial engines, each producing 3,500 horsepower. It had a maximum takeoff weight of 320,000 pounds and a payload capacity of 50,000 pounds.

The XC-99 first flew in 1947 and was used by the Air Force for experimental and test purposes. It was eventually retired in 1957 and is now on display at the National Museum of the United States Air Force in Dayton, Ohio.

Despite its impressive size and capabilities, only one XC-99 was ever produced, as changes in military strategy and the development of jet-powered transport aircraft led to a decreased need for large piston-powered cargo planes.