Hangar Page

Our Hangar

Pictures and History of World Airplanes

Our hangar has some of the worlds best, oldeset, newest, fastest, and most ourageous or unique airplanes that fly "among the clouds". I have placed a short descriptive, definition, or history on that particular airplane next to each picture. The information was gathered over the years from books, web sites, Discovery channel, and other sources such as my friends and coworkers. Do sit back and enjoy the "Airshow".

I thought you may want to enjoy a little music with the "Airshow".
Just click on the picture to play the Learning To Fly MIDI

Picture of the Month

DeHaviland Dash2 Beaver taking off from a Canadian lake.

Click on the Leerjet to see the retired "Pictures of the Month".

Beginning to Post WWI Aviation

As The wings caught the morning air at Kittyhawk, North Carolina, and the engine turned the propellers, the Wright Flyer burst into the morning sky and left the ever-present ground behind. On that day the chronicles of modern aviation begun their never-ending quest for speed, altitude, performance, beauty, and aspirations. The age of the magnificent flying machines was upon us.

As WWI came around many airplane designers were breaking technology barriers on day-to-day basis. In 1914 Sopwith begun building the famous F-1 Camel. The Camel was an agile plane that could outperform its competition and became one of most dangerous fighters in WWI.

The Curtis JN-4 Jenny was another top of the line WWI fighter. Build in 1916 the Jenny saw action on the British and American fronts. But the Jenny's most famous years were after WWI when pilots flew around the country Barnstorming and Wing Walking.

Near the end of WWI, between 1917 and 1918, the German engineers build a fighter that was the beginning of excellence in modern air to air combat. This was the famous Fokker DR 1 tri-plane which was able to out-maneuver and out-perform most of the allied fighters during dog fights.

It was during the war when the race to build bigger and better planes really begun. As soon as planes could carry payloads the thought of large bombers became a reality. One of the well know bomber of WWI was the German build Gotha GV in 1909.

The Ford Tri Motor, build around 1925, was one of the first passanger and cargo transports to cross the American continent.

WWII Aviation

During WWII the aircraft designs took huge steps forward in design, aerodynamics, speed, altitude and distance. The Boeing B-17 Flying Fortress was capable of delivering its payload deep into Germany on a round trip flight.

The B-29 Superfortress was one of the largest bombers build during WWII and was capable at reaching long distances with larger payloads. It was also the precursor to modern passenger transportation.

The quest for speed and maneuverability during the war resulted in slick designs that became marvels of aviation. The North American P-51 Mustang was such marvel. Its slick body, water cooled v16 engine, and 6 guns made it one of the best fighters during its time. With the ability to carry bombs and rockets it became a fierce tank killer. It is also know that during a dive the P-51 came close to the sound barrier (Mach 1, approximately 700 mil/h, 1,120 km/h), and at times even breaking through.

The Lockheed P-38 Lightning was designed to fill the other spectrum of aircraft design. Instead of high speed and extreme maneuverability the P-28 was build to withstand many direct hits to the fuselage, wings, and engines and still enable the pilot to carry out the objective. It also carried 6-8 machine guns and 2 cannons. Any plane aligned in its sights was blown to shreds.

The war in the Pacific was the main reason for the North American B-25 Mitchell. Its smaller size enabled the Mitchell to be launched from the small South Pacific islands and support the ground troops in their beach landings.

One of the superb airplanes of WWII was the Supermarine T9 Spitfire. During the Battle of Britain pilots put the Spitfire trough a tough test defending London against the German attacks. The fighter's reputation grew with every succesfull defensive flight even when seriously outnumbered. With its v16 Merlyn engine it still is a beauty in the sky.

The Grumman F7F Tigercat was designed as a long range night fighter/bomber but never saw any action during WWII. The Tigercat development came late in the war and the planes necessity diminished. Only 100 planes were build and were mostly used for reconnaissance and photography.

A formidable adversary during most of WWII the Messerschmitt BF 109-4 was a superb German fighter and bomber escort. It was the main aircraft in the German Luftwaffe and was feared by many allied pilots for its power, durability, and lethality.

The Grumman F6F Hellcat quickly became "the" fighter of the Pacific conflict during WWII and an indestructible terror among the Japanese pilots. The Hellcat was a powerful and tough plane that could withstand a brutal beating and still protect its pilot to complete their duty and return home. Being able to Take Off and Land on uneven terrain and on an Aircraft Carrier made the Hellcat a valuable aircraft in Pacific.

Post WWII Commercial Aviation

In 1947 Howard Hughes designed and build one of the largest planes ever flown in the air. The Hughes HK-1 Spruce Goose broke many records in its time. With its wooden construction and 8 large engines the HK flew only once for a distance of 70 feet (25 meters) before it was grounded and anchored in a museum.

The Douglas DC-3 Dakota was the precursor to modern passanger transportation. Thousands of these lanes were build (mid 1930's) and delivered all over the world. Even to this date many of the world airlines still use these aging beauties as their main carriers.

The Lockneed L-188 Electra was one of the first mass-produced airliners which crisscrossed the world with millions of passengers on board.

As airplane transportation became more common, aircraft makers searched for better design that could make the journey for the passengers short, comfortable, and affordable. The new hunt for better airplanes gave birth to the Lockheed L-1049 Super Constellation and many other planes to follow.

Jet Age Aviation

When inventors reached the limits of propeller driven airplane designs, they turned to new invention which would change aviation for ever. In 1944 the Germans designed the first jet fighter, the Messerschmitt ME-262. The new jet engines made the ME faster and fiercer. Though it saw limited action in the war, the ME-262 became the building block of modern jet aviation.

The strive to break the sound barrier during a level flight was on everyone's mind in the late 1940's. It wasn't till October 1947 that Cap. Chuck Yeager burst through the sound barrier (Mach 1) in the Bell X-1 'Glamorous Glennis'.

Though there were many jet airliner build in the 1950's, only one really became the fore-father of modern jetliners, the Boeing B707. Build in 1954 the luxurious jet could cross the continents and oceans in record times. Its spacious and comfortable seats and the ability to carry around 350 passengers made it one of the most popular airplanes in the world. And still to this day we can see 707's fly in the sky.

Modern Military Aviation

To the present day the Lockheed SR-71 Blackbird is the fastest airplane in the world. Reaching speeds up to and above Mach 3 (3 times the speed of sound, roughly 2200 mil/h, 3520 km/h) and altitudes of 65,000 ft (21,000 m), the Blackbird is the prize of modern design, aerodynamics, and technology.

The Boeing E-3 Sentry is an airborne warning and control system (AWACS) aircraft that provides all-weather surveillance, command, control and communications needed by commanders of U.S. The Sentry is a modified Boeing B707-300.

The Lockheed C-130 Hercules is a sturdy little transport favored throughout many military branches nation and world wide. The Hercules was designed to land on most surfaces -- such as grass, dirt, mud, snow, ice, or sand -- and with its side-rocket boosters it can takeoff in a short distance (300-500 ft, 100-150 m).

The latest of the giant cargo planes in the air is the Boeing C-17 Globemaster III. This cargo transport can carry 170,000 lbs (77,000 kg) of cargo anywhere around the world. With its in-flight refueling capability, the C-17 can fly as long as the pilots are willing to do so.

In size specifications and design the Lockheed C-5 Galaxy dwarfs most of the planes in modern aviation. This giant transport has the ability to liftoff with over 840,000 lbs (381,000 kg) total gross weight at a range of 2,880 miles (4,600 km). The fuselage compartment is large enough to fit 6 grayhound busses, or 2 M-2 tanks, or 2 F-14 fighters (with folded wings), or up to 500 troops.

But the "giant among the giants" title belongs to the Russian Antonov An-225 Mriya. This huge cargo plane can lift up to 500,000 lbs (227,000 kg) of cargo (making its total takeoff weight at 1.3 million lbs (590,000 kg) for a range of 2,800 miles (4,480 km). It is the biggest airplane in the world.

The KC-10 Extender, a modified Douglas DC-10, is an Air Mobility Command advanced tanker and cargo aircraft. It can combine the tasks of a tanker and cargo aircraft by refueling fighters and simultaneously carry the fighter support personnel and equipment on overseas deployments. The KC-10 can transport up to 75 people and nearly 170,000 lb (76,560 kg) of cargo a distance of about 4,400 miles (7,040 km) unrefueled.

The McDonnell Douglas F-18 Hornet is a world class fighter. It can perform multiple tasks at once making the Hornet a versitile fighter-bomber. Some of the chracteristics: speed up to Mach 2.4, altitudes up to 45,000 ft (15,000 m), and distances up to 800-1,000 miles (1,280-1,600 km).

The Grumman F-14 Tomcat is a multi-tasked fighter/bomber. Preferred by the US Navy, the Tomcat is the backbone of aircraft carrier operations. With its swapped wings, large payload capability, and speeds up to Mach 2.2 the Tomcat is a formidable weapon.

The agility and extreme maneuverability of the Lockheed F-16 Falcon make it the supreme attack fighter in the US Air Force. It can climb directly from 0 to 10,000 ft (3,000 m) in less then 10 seconds and deploy its armaments at the target in extreme precision using 9G tight turns and rolls, extensive power for accelerations, and advanced radar and targeting systems.

Unlike the conventional bombers, the Rockwell B-1B Lance was at first designed to carry multiple nuclear warheads that could strike the enemy in multiple areas, but the latest world nuclear treaties changed the roll of the B-1 and new designs carry smaller payloads, such as the old B-52 Stratofortress (shown bellow), at speeds reaching up to and past Mach 2. Its design and characteristics can strike a target before the enemy realizes its being attacked.

The amazing Boeing B-52 Stratofortress has been in the service for 50 years. This backbone of our opperations has seen more sorties then any other military airplane in the world. Thought it went though numerous modifications over the years, we should still see it around well into 2040.

The Lockheed P-3 Orion is one of the foremost submarine hunters and radar planes in the military. With its modern electronics it can listen to multiple signals comming from multiple dirrections. It is sometimes considered as the 'blood hound' of the armed forces.

The Grumman C-2 Grayhound was designed as the primary transport for Naval carrier opperations. Along with the support vessels, the C-2 provides the US carriers with personnel and goods from the mainland.

Modern Military aviation is among us. The Airborne Laser (ABL) YA-01A is the top of modern technology. The ABL will be able to schoot down an enemy missile using a high power laser.

Modern Military Rotary Aviation

The Bell UH-1 Iriquis, but most commonly known as the Huey, has been a stabble of the US Army and Marine Corps troop transport. The Huey has seen most of its action during the Vietnam war wrere it was the only air vehicle to get into the jungle valleys of southeast Asia.

The Boeing H-60 Black Hawk, designed to replace the aging huey, has become the primary troop transport for the US Army and Marine Corps. The Black Hawk can quickly deploy troops to the battle field, take serious damage, aznd still return the wounded back to home base.

Another aging helicopter is the dual-rotor Boeing Vertol CH-47 Chinook. This rugget helicopter is a heavy lifter used in transporting Marines from Aircraft Carrier to the mainland. Able to hold up to 25 soldiers, the Chinook is atill active in the US Military .

The largest military helicopter is the Sikorsky CH-53 Sea Stallion. Used for multiple holes as a troop and supply lifter and transporter, to a heavy lifter (having the ability to lift heavy support vehicles and artillery), and long flight endurance made the Sea Stallion popular with the Marines and the Navy.

The McDonnell Douglas (now Boeing) AH-64 Apache is the primary support helicopter for the Sea Hawks, Sea Stallions, and Chinooks. With heavy armaments and weapons, this little helicopter can quickly change the future of the enemy.

The newest addition in the rotary department is the vertical takeoff Boeing CV-22 Osprey. The Osprey lifts up like a helicopter and flies like an airplane. The Osprey can till its wingtip engines from a forward position to vertical position in mid-flight in seconds. With long range, short runway takeoff and landing, and large troop or cargolift capability, the Osprey will be suitable for any military deployment specification.

Stealth Age Aviation

The Lockheed F-117 Nighthawk begun a new age in military aviation, stealth technology. The ability to sneak upon the enemy without being caught on their radar became a major focus of the 1990's. The F-117 was the first to be designed with the stealth technology.

Following the Stealth fighter (shown above) the new bombers were being designed with the same technology that made the F-117 practically invisible to radar. The Northrop Grumman B-2 Spirit is the first stealth bomber in the world.

The Lockheed F-22 Raptor is the latest in military aviation and the latest in airplane techology. Its sleek design, speed, and stealth technology make it a world class fighter ready for the 21st century. The current prototypes are being vigurously tested at the Edwards AFB Test Facility.

General Aviation

One of the most common small airplanes flying in the sky is the Cessna 152. The little aircraft has simple yet tolerable controls and instrument. It is among the most favorite airplanes used for pilot training and personal recreation. With its sturdy structure the C152 can land almost anywhere.

The Cessna 172 Skyhawk is the larger sister of the C152. Designed with a larger cabin (seats 3 adults or 2 adults and 2 kids), larger fuel capacity for longer endurance (range), and a larger and more powerful engine the C172 was to be the family transportation of the future. The affordable aircraft made it possible for many pilots to take their families on trips that were just too long for a drive.

The Boeing/Stearman PT-17A Kaydet is considered by many pilots as the "toy in the sky". The Stearman is a tough, slow, and durable biplane used during air shows mainly for wing walking and aerial acrobatics. During the barnstorming days the Stearman became a popular and fun plane to own and fly around the countryside. It is my ultimate dream as a pilot.

Modern Commercial Aviation

The Aerospatial ATR72 is short range commuter airplane that can carry 66 passengers up 1000 miles (1600 km). Mostly used by European airlines, it is able to land in small airports with rough surfaces. Shown in American Eagle (AA commuter charter) colors.

The Boeing B717 is the latest jetliner from the Boeing company. This plane will replace the aging DC-9's (not shown), short range commuter aircraft. Shown as an Greek Olympic Airlines aircraft, the B717 is becoming a fvorite with many European airlines and a few US airlines such as Hawaiian.

Boeing's B737 is the most widely used commercial jet in the world. Most of the world's airlines have one or more of these jets (series range from 200-900). Soutwest Airlines uses only the B737's in their fleet.

Airbus A320 is a short to medium range jetliner. Has similar characteristics as the B737 and is considered as the European twin. Shown in the FinAir colors.

McDonnell Douglas MD88, a short to medium range aircraft, can land at airports with shorter runways and with facilities designed for smaller airplanes. Its slender body and shorter wings make it popular with many Caribbean airlines. TWA, Alaska, Continental, and AA (American) are a few airlines that use the MD88's.

The Boeing B727 has seen its share during its 30 years in service. This aging airliner is slowly fading from its existence among the world�s elite aircraft. The B727 can nowadays be seen flying cargo for companies such as DHL, FedEx, Kitty Hawk, UPS, and the US Postal Service. Only a handful of small airlines, international airlines, and carriers such as United, Delta, ATA, or American still have some in their fleets.

The Russian made Tupolev TU-154 is the aging version of the US Boeing B727. This has been flying for 30 years and it is still a major airframe for many international airlines. The 3-engine jet has seen its share of mishaps. Most former East Block (former Communist) countries such as Ukraine, Russia, Czech Republic, Poland, Romania, and Bulgaria use the TU-154 jets.

The Boeing B757 is the largest single isle commercial airplane in the world (the new 300 series). It is a medium range plane designed to carry up to 250 passengers across the US Continent. The new 300 series is able to cross the Atlantic. Shown in AA (American) color scheme.

The Boeing B767 is first of the 'wide body' airplane. With 2 isles and up to 300 passengers, the 767 is a medium to long haul airplane. The new 400 series has the ability to cross the Pacific ocean. Many European airlines use it for their trans-Atlantic routes. Lan Chile uses the B767 for their Santiago to Los Angeles flights.

The Russian Ilyushin IL-62 has a unique feature not seen in any other commercial airliner in the world. The IL-62 has for engines mounted on the tail with 2 engines mounted side by side on each side of the fuselage. Airlines such as Aeroflot still use this plane for their long haul routes.

One my favorite airplanes as design goes is the Douglas DC10. With its tail mounted 3rd engine it is a beauty. Sadly many of these planes are being replaced by new, better, and more economic planes. The DC10 was a medium to long haul airplane favorite for the trans-continental routes. Hawaiian airlines still use these magnificent airplanes for their routes to the mainland.

McDonnell Douglas redesigned the aging DC10 and developed the McDonnell Douglas MD11. The MD11 is slightly wider and longer then the predecessor. The main features added to the MD11 design were remodeled tail engine, additional winglets on the tips, and longer range. The MD11 can easily travel up to 15 hour in the air. FedEx uses the MD11 for their cargo capacity.

The Airbus A330 was designed as an answer to the MD11 and the B767. Since there are many European airports that can not handle an airplane the size of a B747, many airlines were seeking a plane large enough to go across the Atlantic and still fit at these airports. Boeing made the B767, McDonnell Douglas made the MD11, and Airbus made the A330. Aer Lingus uses the A330 for their trans-Atlantic routes.

One of the newest airplanes flying today is the Boeing B777. This aircraft was build to carry up to 380 passengers half way around the world (15-20 hours). With its wide body design, huge economic engines, and the ability to land and takeoff in short distances will make it a wanted plane throughout the world. United Airlines were the first airline to fly the new B777. The new B777-300 series supposed to start service in 2003 and will be able to take over 400 passengers.

The Ilyushin IL-86 has been Russian pride of the transcontinental flight. This plane made it possible for airlines such as Aeroflot and Kras airlines to connect with the outside world. This 4-engine airplane has similar features as the Airbus A340 and the now fazed out Boeing B707.

A direct competition with the B777 and B747 Airbus developed the A340. This long haul aircraft has quickly become the favorite with many airlines. Though it can't carry as many passengers nor can it fly as long as the B747, the A340 can be used for smaller airports that are unable to house the B747. Many of the European airlines, such as Lufthansa, use the A340 for their long haul routes.

Another of the large 4 engine airliners is the Antonov AN-124. The AN-124 is predominately a cargo transport but in the mid 1990's the Russian airline Aeroflot asked for a large plane that could fly across the Atlantic and the Pacific, thus Antonov redesigned the cargo transport into a spacious jetliner.

The Boeing B747 is the largest commercial transport in the world. With 4 engines and enough fuel to stay in the air up to 22 hours (non-stop) the B747 is the king of modern jetliners. The ability to carry up to 420 (or more) passengers anywhere around the world makes a huge favorite among most airlines especially for the trans-Pacific or trans-Atlantic routes. This Air France B747 is on final to Pepeete in Tahiti.

The British-French build Concorde (now retired) is one of its kind. It is the first and only supersonic commercial plane in the world. With the ability to reach speed up to Mach 2.4 and altitudes up to 50,000 ft (16,600 m) it can make the trans-Atlantic run in 3 hours (B747 can do it in 8). Only Air France and British Airways use the Concorde between New York, London, and Paris.

Space Aviation

Sapce Shuttle Columnbia (no longer flying) taking off from the Kennedy Space Center in Florida.

A picture of the Space Shuttle Endevour orbiting high above the Earth with its cargo bay door wide open.

Space Shuttle Discovery above the Edwards Air Force base long runway just beffore touchdown.

Space Shuttle Atlantis taking a piggy-back ride on top of a specially modiffied B747 from Edwards AF in California to the Kennedy Space Center in Florida.

If the animated icons stop moving click on the REFRESH button.
Designed by Jan Rehacek @ 2004

	As The wings caught the morning air at Kittyhawk, North Carolina, and the engine turned the propellers, the Wright Flyer burst into the morning sky and left the ever-present ground behind. On that day the chronicles of modern aviation begun their never-ending quest for speed, altitude, performance, beauty, and aspirations. The age of the magnificent flying machines was upon us.
	As WWI came around many airplane designers were breaking technology barriers on day-to-day basis. In 1914 Sopwith begun building the famous F-1 Camel. The Camel was an agile plane that could outperform its competition and became one of most dangerous fighters in WWI.
	The Curtis JN-4 Jenny was another top of the line WWI fighter. Build in 1916 the Jenny saw action on the British and American fronts. But the Jenny's most famous years were after WWI when pilots flew around the country Barnstorming and Wing Walking.
	Near the end of WWI, between 1917 and 1918, the German engineers build a fighter that was the beginning of excellence in modern air to air combat. This was the famous Fokker DR 1 tri-plane which was able to out-maneuver and out-perform most of the allied fighters during dog fights.
	It was during the war when the race to build bigger and better planes really begun. As soon as planes could carry payloads the thought of large bombers became a reality. One of the well know bomber of WWI was the German build Gotha GV in 1909.
	The Ford Tri Motor, build around 1925, was one of the first passanger and cargo transports to cross the American continent.

	During WWII the aircraft designs took huge steps forward in design, aerodynamics, speed, altitude and distance. The Boeing B-17 Flying Fortress was capable of delivering its payload deep into Germany on a round trip flight.
	The B-29 Superfortress was one of the largest bombers build during WWII and was capable at reaching long distances with larger payloads. It was also the precursor to modern passenger transportation.
	The quest for speed and maneuverability during the war resulted in slick designs that became marvels of aviation. The North American P-51 Mustang was such marvel. Its slick body, water cooled v16 engine, and 6 guns made it one of the best fighters during its time. With the ability to carry bombs and rockets it became a fierce tank killer. It is also know that during a dive the P-51 came close to the sound barrier (Mach 1, approximately 700 mil/h, 1,120 km/h), and at times even breaking through.
	The Lockheed P-38 Lightning was designed to fill the other spectrum of aircraft design. Instead of high speed and extreme maneuverability the P-28 was build to withstand many direct hits to the fuselage, wings, and engines and still enable the pilot to carry out the objective. It also carried 6-8 machine guns and 2 cannons. Any plane aligned in its sights was blown to shreds.
	The war in the Pacific was the main reason for the North American B-25 Mitchell. Its smaller size enabled the Mitchell to be launched from the small South Pacific islands and support the ground troops in their beach landings.
	One of the superb airplanes of WWII was the Supermarine T9 Spitfire. During the Battle of Britain pilots put the Spitfire trough a tough test defending London against the German attacks. The fighter's reputation grew with every succesfull defensive flight even when seriously outnumbered. With its v16 Merlyn engine it still is a beauty in the sky.
	The Grumman F7F Tigercat was designed as a long range night fighter/bomber but never saw any action during WWII. The Tigercat development came late in the war and the planes necessity diminished. Only 100 planes were build and were mostly used for reconnaissance and photography.
	A formidable adversary during most of WWII the Messerschmitt BF 109-4 was a superb German fighter and bomber escort. It was the main aircraft in the German Luftwaffe and was feared by many allied pilots for its power, durability, and lethality.
	The Grumman F6F Hellcat quickly became "the" fighter of the Pacific conflict during WWII and an indestructible terror among the Japanese pilots. The Hellcat was a powerful and tough plane that could withstand a brutal beating and still protect its pilot to complete their duty and return home. Being able to Take Off and Land on uneven terrain and on an Aircraft Carrier made the Hellcat a valuable aircraft in Pacific.

	In 1947 Howard Hughes designed and build one of the largest planes ever flown in the air. The Hughes HK-1 Spruce Goose broke many records in its time. With its wooden construction and 8 large engines the HK flew only once for a distance of 70 feet (25 meters) before it was grounded and anchored in a museum.
	The Douglas DC-3 Dakota was the precursor to modern passanger transportation. Thousands of these lanes were build (mid 1930's) and delivered all over the world. Even to this date many of the world airlines still use these aging beauties as their main carriers.
	The Lockneed L-188 Electra was one of the first mass-produced airliners which crisscrossed the world with millions of passengers on board.
	As airplane transportation became more common, aircraft makers searched for better design that could make the journey for the passengers short, comfortable, and affordable. The new hunt for better airplanes gave birth to the Lockheed L-1049 Super Constellation and many other planes to follow.

	When inventors reached the limits of propeller driven airplane designs, they turned to new invention which would change aviation for ever. In 1944 the Germans designed the first jet fighter, the Messerschmitt ME-262. The new jet engines made the ME faster and fiercer. Though it saw limited action in the war, the ME-262 became the building block of modern jet aviation.
	The strive to break the sound barrier during a level flight was on everyone's mind in the late 1940's. It wasn't till October 1947 that Cap. Chuck Yeager burst through the sound barrier (Mach 1) in the Bell X-1 'Glamorous Glennis'.
	Though there were many jet airliner build in the 1950's, only one really became the fore-father of modern jetliners, the Boeing B707. Build in 1954 the luxurious jet could cross the continents and oceans in record times. Its spacious and comfortable seats and the ability to carry around 350 passengers made it one of the most popular airplanes in the world. And still to this day we can see 707's fly in the sky.

	To the present day the Lockheed SR-71 Blackbird is the fastest airplane in the world. Reaching speeds up to and above Mach 3 (3 times the speed of sound, roughly 2200 mil/h, 3520 km/h) and altitudes of 65,000 ft (21,000 m), the Blackbird is the prize of modern design, aerodynamics, and technology.
	The Boeing E-3 Sentry is an airborne warning and control system (AWACS) aircraft that provides all-weather surveillance, command, control and communications needed by commanders of U.S. The Sentry is a modified Boeing B707-300.
	The Lockheed C-130 Hercules is a sturdy little transport favored throughout many military branches nation and world wide. The Hercules was designed to land on most surfaces -- such as grass, dirt, mud, snow, ice, or sand -- and with its side-rocket boosters it can takeoff in a short distance (300-500 ft, 100-150 m).
	The latest of the giant cargo planes in the air is the Boeing C-17 Globemaster III. This cargo transport can carry 170,000 lbs (77,000 kg) of cargo anywhere around the world. With its in-flight refueling capability, the C-17 can fly as long as the pilots are willing to do so.
	In size specifications and design the Lockheed C-5 Galaxy dwarfs most of the planes in modern aviation. This giant transport has the ability to liftoff with over 840,000 lbs (381,000 kg) total gross weight at a range of 2,880 miles (4,600 km). The fuselage compartment is large enough to fit 6 grayhound busses, or 2 M-2 tanks, or 2 F-14 fighters (with folded wings), or up to 500 troops.
	But the "giant among the giants" title belongs to the Russian Antonov An-225 Mriya. This huge cargo plane can lift up to 500,000 lbs (227,000 kg) of cargo (making its total takeoff weight at 1.3 million lbs (590,000 kg) for a range of 2,800 miles (4,480 km). It is the biggest airplane in the world.
	The KC-10 Extender, a modified Douglas DC-10, is an Air Mobility Command advanced tanker and cargo aircraft. It can combine the tasks of a tanker and cargo aircraft by refueling fighters and simultaneously carry the fighter support personnel and equipment on overseas deployments. The KC-10 can transport up to 75 people and nearly 170,000 lb (76,560 kg) of cargo a distance of about 4,400 miles (7,040 km) unrefueled.
	The McDonnell Douglas F-18 Hornet is a world class fighter. It can perform multiple tasks at once making the Hornet a versitile fighter-bomber. Some of the chracteristics: speed up to Mach 2.4, altitudes up to 45,000 ft (15,000 m), and distances up to 800-1,000 miles (1,280-1,600 km).
	The Grumman F-14 Tomcat is a multi-tasked fighter/bomber. Preferred by the US Navy, the Tomcat is the backbone of aircraft carrier operations. With its swapped wings, large payload capability, and speeds up to Mach 2.2 the Tomcat is a formidable weapon.
	The agility and extreme maneuverability of the Lockheed F-16 Falcon make it the supreme attack fighter in the US Air Force. It can climb directly from 0 to 10,000 ft (3,000 m) in less then 10 seconds and deploy its armaments at the target in extreme precision using 9G tight turns and rolls, extensive power for accelerations, and advanced radar and targeting systems.
	Unlike the conventional bombers, the Rockwell B-1B Lance was at first designed to carry multiple nuclear warheads that could strike the enemy in multiple areas, but the latest world nuclear treaties changed the roll of the B-1 and new designs carry smaller payloads, such as the old B-52 Stratofortress (shown bellow), at speeds reaching up to and past Mach 2. Its design and characteristics can strike a target before the enemy realizes its being attacked.
	The amazing Boeing B-52 Stratofortress has been in the service for 50 years. This backbone of our opperations has seen more sorties then any other military airplane in the world. Thought it went though numerous modifications over the years, we should still see it around well into 2040.
	The Lockheed P-3 Orion is one of the foremost submarine hunters and radar planes in the military. With its modern electronics it can listen to multiple signals comming from multiple dirrections. It is sometimes considered as the 'blood hound' of the armed forces.
	The Grumman C-2 Grayhound was designed as the primary transport for Naval carrier opperations. Along with the support vessels, the C-2 provides the US carriers with personnel and goods from the mainland.
	Modern Military aviation is among us. The Airborne Laser (ABL) YA-01A is the top of modern technology. The ABL will be able to schoot down an enemy missile using a high power laser.

	The Bell UH-1 Iriquis, but most commonly known as the Huey, has been a stabble of the US Army and Marine Corps troop transport. The Huey has seen most of its action during the Vietnam war wrere it was the only air vehicle to get into the jungle valleys of southeast Asia.
	The Boeing H-60 Black Hawk, designed to replace the aging huey, has become the primary troop transport for the US Army and Marine Corps. The Black Hawk can quickly deploy troops to the battle field, take serious damage, aznd still return the wounded back to home base.
	Another aging helicopter is the dual-rotor Boeing Vertol CH-47 Chinook. This rugget helicopter is a heavy lifter used in transporting Marines from Aircraft Carrier to the mainland. Able to hold up to 25 soldiers, the Chinook is atill active in the US Military .
	The largest military helicopter is the Sikorsky CH-53 Sea Stallion. Used for multiple holes as a troop and supply lifter and transporter, to a heavy lifter (having the ability to lift heavy support vehicles and artillery), and long flight endurance made the Sea Stallion popular with the Marines and the Navy.
	The McDonnell Douglas (now Boeing) AH-64 Apache is the primary support helicopter for the Sea Hawks, Sea Stallions, and Chinooks. With heavy armaments and weapons, this little helicopter can quickly change the future of the enemy.
	The newest addition in the rotary department is the vertical takeoff Boeing CV-22 Osprey. The Osprey lifts up like a helicopter and flies like an airplane. The Osprey can till its wingtip engines from a forward position to vertical position in mid-flight in seconds. With long range, short runway takeoff and landing, and large troop or cargolift capability, the Osprey will be suitable for any military deployment specification.

	The Lockheed F-117 Nighthawk begun a new age in military aviation, stealth technology. The ability to sneak upon the enemy without being caught on their radar became a major focus of the 1990's. The F-117 was the first to be designed with the stealth technology.
	Following the Stealth fighter (shown above) the new bombers were being designed with the same technology that made the F-117 practically invisible to radar. The Northrop Grumman B-2 Spirit is the first stealth bomber in the world.
	The Lockheed F-22 Raptor is the latest in military aviation and the latest in airplane techology. Its sleek design, speed, and stealth technology make it a world class fighter ready for the 21st century. The current prototypes are being vigurously tested at the Edwards AFB Test Facility.

	One of the most common small airplanes flying in the sky is the Cessna 152. The little aircraft has simple yet tolerable controls and instrument. It is among the most favorite airplanes used for pilot training and personal recreation. With its sturdy structure the C152 can land almost anywhere.
	The Cessna 172 Skyhawk is the larger sister of the C152. Designed with a larger cabin (seats 3 adults or 2 adults and 2 kids), larger fuel capacity for longer endurance (range), and a larger and more powerful engine the C172 was to be the family transportation of the future. The affordable aircraft made it possible for many pilots to take their families on trips that were just too long for a drive.
	The Boeing/Stearman PT-17A Kaydet is considered by many pilots as the "toy in the sky". The Stearman is a tough, slow, and durable biplane used during air shows mainly for wing walking and aerial acrobatics. During the barnstorming days the Stearman became a popular and fun plane to own and fly around the countryside. It is my ultimate dream as a pilot.

	The Aerospatial ATR72 is short range commuter airplane that can carry 66 passengers up 1000 miles (1600 km). Mostly used by European airlines, it is able to land in small airports with rough surfaces. Shown in American Eagle (AA commuter charter) colors.
	The Boeing B717 is the latest jetliner from the Boeing company. This plane will replace the aging DC-9's (not shown), short range commuter aircraft. Shown as an Greek Olympic Airlines aircraft, the B717 is becoming a fvorite with many European airlines and a few US airlines such as Hawaiian.
	Boeing's B737 is the most widely used commercial jet in the world. Most of the world's airlines have one or more of these jets (series range from 200-900). Soutwest Airlines uses only the B737's in their fleet.
	Airbus A320 is a short to medium range jetliner. Has similar characteristics as the B737 and is considered as the European twin. Shown in the FinAir colors.
	McDonnell Douglas MD88, a short to medium range aircraft, can land at airports with shorter runways and with facilities designed for smaller airplanes. Its slender body and shorter wings make it popular with many Caribbean airlines. TWA, Alaska, Continental, and AA (American) are a few airlines that use the MD88's.
	The Boeing B727 has seen its share during its 30 years in service. This aging airliner is slowly fading from its existence among the world�s elite aircraft. The B727 can nowadays be seen flying cargo for companies such as DHL, FedEx, Kitty Hawk, UPS, and the US Postal Service. Only a handful of small airlines, international airlines, and carriers such as United, Delta, ATA, or American still have some in their fleets.
	The Russian made Tupolev TU-154 is the aging version of the US Boeing B727. This has been flying for 30 years and it is still a major airframe for many international airlines. The 3-engine jet has seen its share of mishaps. Most former East Block (former Communist) countries such as Ukraine, Russia, Czech Republic, Poland, Romania, and Bulgaria use the TU-154 jets.
	The Boeing B757 is the largest single isle commercial airplane in the world (the new 300 series). It is a medium range plane designed to carry up to 250 passengers across the US Continent. The new 300 series is able to cross the Atlantic. Shown in AA (American) color scheme.
	The Boeing B767 is first of the 'wide body' airplane. With 2 isles and up to 300 passengers, the 767 is a medium to long haul airplane. The new 400 series has the ability to cross the Pacific ocean. Many European airlines use it for their trans-Atlantic routes. Lan Chile uses the B767 for their Santiago to Los Angeles flights.
	The Russian Ilyushin IL-62 has a unique feature not seen in any other commercial airliner in the world. The IL-62 has for engines mounted on the tail with 2 engines mounted side by side on each side of the fuselage. Airlines such as Aeroflot still use this plane for their long haul routes.
	One my favorite airplanes as design goes is the Douglas DC10. With its tail mounted 3rd engine it is a beauty. Sadly many of these planes are being replaced by new, better, and more economic planes. The DC10 was a medium to long haul airplane favorite for the trans-continental routes. Hawaiian airlines still use these magnificent airplanes for their routes to the mainland.
	McDonnell Douglas redesigned the aging DC10 and developed the McDonnell Douglas MD11. The MD11 is slightly wider and longer then the predecessor. The main features added to the MD11 design were remodeled tail engine, additional winglets on the tips, and longer range. The MD11 can easily travel up to 15 hour in the air. FedEx uses the MD11 for their cargo capacity.
	The Airbus A330 was designed as an answer to the MD11 and the B767. Since there are many European airports that can not handle an airplane the size of a B747, many airlines were seeking a plane large enough to go across the Atlantic and still fit at these airports. Boeing made the B767, McDonnell Douglas made the MD11, and Airbus made the A330. Aer Lingus uses the A330 for their trans-Atlantic routes.
	One of the newest airplanes flying today is the Boeing B777. This aircraft was build to carry up to 380 passengers half way around the world (15-20 hours). With its wide body design, huge economic engines, and the ability to land and takeoff in short distances will make it a wanted plane throughout the world. United Airlines were the first airline to fly the new B777. The new B777-300 series supposed to start service in 2003 and will be able to take over 400 passengers.
	The Ilyushin IL-86 has been Russian pride of the transcontinental flight. This plane made it possible for airlines such as Aeroflot and Kras airlines to connect with the outside world. This 4-engine airplane has similar features as the Airbus A340 and the now fazed out Boeing B707.
	A direct competition with the B777 and B747 Airbus developed the A340. This long haul aircraft has quickly become the favorite with many airlines. Though it can't carry as many passengers nor can it fly as long as the B747, the A340 can be used for smaller airports that are unable to house the B747. Many of the European airlines, such as Lufthansa, use the A340 for their long haul routes.
	Another of the large 4 engine airliners is the Antonov AN-124. The AN-124 is predominately a cargo transport but in the mid 1990's the Russian airline Aeroflot asked for a large plane that could fly across the Atlantic and the Pacific, thus Antonov redesigned the cargo transport into a spacious jetliner.
	The Boeing B747 is the largest commercial transport in the world. With 4 engines and enough fuel to stay in the air up to 22 hours (non-stop) the B747 is the king of modern jetliners. The ability to carry up to 420 (or more) passengers anywhere around the world makes a huge favorite among most airlines especially for the trans-Pacific or trans-Atlantic routes. This Air France B747 is on final to Pepeete in Tahiti.
	The British-French build Concorde (now retired) is one of its kind. It is the first and only supersonic commercial plane in the world. With the ability to reach speed up to Mach 2.4 and altitudes up to 50,000 ft (16,600 m) it can make the trans-Atlantic run in 3 hours (B747 can do it in 8). Only Air France and British Airways use the Concorde between New York, London, and Paris.

	Sapce Shuttle Columnbia (no longer flying) taking off from the Kennedy Space Center in Florida.
	A picture of the Space Shuttle Endevour orbiting high above the Earth with its cargo bay door wide open.
	Space Shuttle Discovery above the Edwards Air Force base long runway just beffore touchdown.
	Space Shuttle Atlantis taking a piggy-back ride on top of a specially modiffied B747 from Edwards AF in California to the Kennedy Space Center in Florida.