RAF Skymaster KL978

[Michel Lozares]

Hi all

C-54D 42-72484 was transferred to RAF from USAAF on March 1945. Her was one of the 22 C-54D in service with the RAF with reg. KL978. Later was returned to USAAF on July 1946 and transferred to USN.

Anyone could say me which was the unit where this Skymaster Mk I had assigned in the RAF please ?

After USN service, the aircraft returned again to USAF and finally her was delivered to the Spanish Air Force where had in service with reg. T.4-16.

I also appreciatte someone could has any pic of this bird in the RAF service.
I´m writting a book about spanish C-54s and it would be interesting to include any pic.

Kind Regards
Michel

[John Aeroclub]

The RAF had 11 Skymasters which served with No 232 and 246 Sqns in 47 Group.

(Putnams Aircraft of the RAF.

John

[Ballykellybrat]

There's a photo of KL978 on page 199 of Air Arsenal North America (Midland). It is via Lee Howard who frequents this forum. Photo was probably taken at its 232 Squadron base in India at Palam (near Delhi), SE Asia Command roundels & fin flashes (dark & light blue) have been applied. As John says 11 Skymasters were delivered to the RAF the odd one out being the first (EW999) which was for the personal use of Winston Churchill & was initially on the books of 24 Squadron before being operated by the VIP flight of 246 Squadron. Funny, I'm just re-reading Ernest K Gann's "Fate is the Hunter", so C54s are in the blood this week!
Bill

[Michel Lozares]

Thanks John and Bill

Yes, ok. RAF had 10 C-54D (ex Bunos 91994/92003) and the Churchill´s personal C-54B. Thanks again. I hope to be in luck and to contact with Lee.

Regards
Michel