Boeing 314 Clipper in Military service? C-98.

Tue Dec 19, 2006 10:58 am

Hi I just picked up a 1/144 model kit of the Boeing 314. I noticed on wikipedia (I know, not the most reliable source) the claim that some of the 314's were used by the military during the war as "C-98's".

Is this accurate? Anyone have any pictures?

I was just curious what markings they would have had, Pan-Am or Military.

Thanks for any help.

Tue Dec 19, 2006 12:53 pm

I had heard this somewhere before. After a little digging I found the following on Joe Baugher's site. If it ever flew with the US Military, Joe's got something it.

Boeing C-98 Designation given to four examples of Model 314
flying boat requisitioned by USAAF from PAA.

Later transferred to US Navy.
Regards
Robbie

Wed Dec 20, 2006 4:27 pm

Go to this site:

http://www.daveswarbirds.com/usplanes

Enter the site and search down the left column until you find C-98. Click on that and you will find a photo of a 314 in wartime camo paint.

These aircraft were operated by Pan Am crews for the military, both the Army Air Force and the Navy.

Walt

Wed Dec 20, 2006 9:01 pm

IIRC, President Roosevelt flew on one to the Casablanca Conference (celebrated his brithday on-board) - the first flight by a sitting US President on official business.

Thu Dec 21, 2006 7:43 am

If you would enjoy a very complete history of the 314, including its development, pick up "Last of the Flying Clippers" by Klaus. It also addresses your question in an entire chapter. While I havent viewed it in a while, the "Flying Boats" dvd/vhs series (Discovery Wings) also has some color footage of the C-98 and M-130.

Fri Dec 29, 2006 10:58 pm

I just found this site about the Pan Am Clippers, has a nice piece on the Clippers at war.

http://www.flyingclippers.com/clippersatwar.html

Don