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"When one reviews the encyclopedic range of accomplishments by the C-130 Hercules and its valiant aircrews over the years, surely one of the most astounding took place in October 1963 when the U.S. Navy decided to try to land a Hercules on an aircraft carrier. Was it possible? Who would believe that the big, four-engine C-130 with its bulky fuselage and 132-foot wing span could land on the deck of a carrier?
Not only was it possible, it was done in moderately rough seas 500 miles out in the North Atlantic off the coast of Boston. In so doing, the airplane became the largest and heaviest aircraft to ever land on an aircraft carrier, a record that stands to this day."
http://theaviationzone.com/factsheets/c130_forrestal.asp
Not only was it possible, it was done in moderately rough seas 500 miles out in the North Atlantic off the coast of Boston. In so doing, the airplane became the largest and heaviest aircraft to ever land on an aircraft carrier, a record that stands to this day."
http://theaviationzone.com/factsheets/c130_forrestal.asp
Aviation
Military History
Naval Historical Foundation
Posted >1 y ago
Responses: 23
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So, they tested it. It worked FAR better than they thought it would, or could. And then they trashed the idea. Sounds about right.
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PO2 Melanye Francisco
It would be too much of a safety hazard. In order to get it on deck, you wouldn't be able to have any planes parked aft on either side. Plus, depending on Tilly's location, you'd have to move that as well.
A lot went into accomplishing this particular landing. You notice, however, that it only talks about it landing on the carrier. Not sure how it got off because the C-130 is not capable of a catapult launch nor would the deck of a Forrestal class carrier be long enough, even starting at the round down, for it to get enough speed to leave the deck safely. Unlike the planes used in the Doolittle Raid, the C-130 is much heavier and bulkier.
A lot went into accomplishing this particular landing. You notice, however, that it only talks about it landing on the carrier. Not sure how it got off because the C-130 is not capable of a catapult launch nor would the deck of a Forrestal class carrier be long enough, even starting at the round down, for it to get enough speed to leave the deck safely. Unlike the planes used in the Doolittle Raid, the C-130 is much heavier and bulkier.
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SSG(P) D. Wright Downs
Wow. The Forrestal. i remember when it had a fire. Don't remember much about the fire other than it was where my rooom mates boyfriend was supposed to be and he had left the day before for a family emergency leave. One lucky sailor.
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MSG (Join to see)
It might be possible using JATO tanks, but then there would be a need for additional pylons under the wings.
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Indeed the plane that can do it all at home, in the desert, on ice, and in Hollywood films. It is the longest continuously produced and utilized military aircraft in history! Have you read a recent CNN article on the "Furious" Hercules? http://www.cnn.com/2015/04/08/us/c-130-hercules-military-plane-anniversary/
The 'Furious 7' C-130 Hercules that just won't quit - CNN.com
The Lockheed C-130 Hercules -- the longest continuously produced military plane in history -- performs a jaw-dropping stunt in "Furious 7."
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