McDonnell Douglas C-9A, "Nightingale" - Lackland AFB - San Antonio, Texas - Static Aircraft Displays on Waymarking.com

McDonnell Douglas C-9A, "Nightingale"
Serial No. 71-0878

The C-9A Nightingale is the only aircraft in the USAF inventory that was specifically designed for movement of litter and ambulatory patients.  It provided service not only to the military, but also to the Department of Veterans Affairs and civilian hospitals throughout the world.  Experience gained in the early stages of American involvement in the Vietnam War highlighted the need for a relatively low-cost, expedient, medium-range, aero-medical transport, an initial order for 30 right-off-the-shelf commercial McDonnell Douglas DC-9 series airliners was placed to be set aside for military conversion.  Modifications included provisions for an intensive care section, galleys, and electrical system for cardiac monitors, respirators, incubators and infusion pumps.  Another feature was the addition of a third access door with a built-in hydraulic ramp that served to facilitate the loading of litters.  Accommodation was provided for up to 40 litters and 40 ambulatory patients, two nurses and three aero-medical attendants.  The first C-9 was rolled out on 17 June 1968 and 21 were delivered to the Military Airlift Command at Scott AFB.  The fleet would fly over 3000 missions annually, airlifting over 60,000 patients.  The C-9 on display served with the 375th Airlift Wing of Air Mobility Command and also with the 932nd Air Reserve Wing.  The C-9 fleet was retired from active duty in 2003 and from reserve statue in 2005.

Wing Span:  93' 5"

Length:  119' 3"

Height:  27' 6"

Weight (Empty):  52,935 lbs

Maximum Speed:  565 mph

Power Plant:  2 Pratt & Whitney  JT8D-9A Turbofan Engines

Information from sign in front of aircraft.

Type of Aircraft: (make/model): McDonnell Douglas C-9A, "Nightingale" Tail Number: (S/N): 10878 Construction:: original aircraft Location (park, airport, museum, etc.): Lackland AFB inside / outside: outside Access restrictions: Must have access to get on this base. Other Information:: Not listed

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