Douglas VC-118 “The Independence” This Douglas VC-118 on display was the second aircraft built specifically to transport the President of the United States. A military version of the Douglas DC-6 commercial airliner, it was used by President Harry S. Truman from 1947 to 1953. At the suggestion of the aircraft’s pilot, President Truman named it The Independence in recognition of his hometown, Independence, Mo.
TECHNICAL NOTES:
Crew: Nine (plus 25 passengers)
Engines: Four Pratt & Whitney R-2800s of 2,100 hp each
Maximum speed: 360 mph
Range: 4,400 miles
Ceiling: 31,200 feet
Weight: 93,200 lbs. (loaded)