The C-97 was the AAF cargo/transport version of the B-29. Between 1943 and 1950, 74 Stratofreighters were ordered; the first flight occurred on Nov. 15 1944. A tanker version (KC-97) was introduced in 1950 using the "flying boom" refueling system and all subsequent USAF contracts for C-97s were for tankers. In all, 890 aircraft were ordered, 74 C-97s and 816 KC-97s. After 1956 USAF KC-97s were gradually replaced by KC-135 jet tankers, but some were modified for continued use in other roles. In 1964, selected aircraft were returned to a tanker configuration. Although the last USAF C/KC-97 was retired in 1973, examples remained in use with the AF Reserve and ANG as tankers or air-sea search and rescue aircraft.

SPECIFICATIONS
Span: 141 ft. 2 in.
Length: 117 ft. 5 in. (with boom retracted)
Height: 38 ft. 4 in.
Weight: 153,000 lbs. normal max.
Armament: None
Engines: Four Pratt & Whitney R-4360s of 3,500 hp. ea.
Cost: $1,205,000
Serial number: 52-2630

PERFORMANCE
Maximum speed: 400 mph.
Cruising speed: 230 mph.
Normal Range: 2,300 miles
Service Ceiling: 30,000 ft.