Mcdonnell Douglas YC-15
The McDonnell Douglas YC-15 was a 1970s tactical-transport prototype that demonstrated extraordinary short-field performance using externally blown flaps. Its four engines were mounted above the wing so their exhaust could be directed over the flaps, creating extra lift at low speed. Although the YC-15 lost its programme to the C-17 concept, its work directly influenced the later Globemaster III. Only two were built, making this one of the most historically important American prototypes.
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Did you know?
The YC-15's engines sit above the wing rather than below it, using upper-surface blowing to direct exhaust over the flaps for extra lift.
Specifications
| Length | 37.8 m (124 ft) |
|---|---|
| Wingspan | 40.4 m (133 ft) |
| Height | 14.3 m (47 ft) |
| Maximum passengers | 150 |
| Crew | 4 |
| Maximum take-off weight | 99.4 t |
| Range | 3,000 NM (5,556 km) |
| Maximum speed | 445 kt (824 km/h) |
| Service ceiling | 45,000 ft (13,716 m) |
| Optimum ceiling | 25,000 ft (7,620 m) |
| Engines | 4x General Electric CF6-50D |
| Units built | 2 |
Curated by CatchFlights from manufacturer documents, ICAO Doc 8643 and reference works; values are left out where no source could confirm them. Sources are listed on our credits page.
In CatchFlights
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