MULTI-ROLE TRANSPORT
The Tested and Proven STOL Aircraft
Unique in its Class
The DHC-4A "Turbo Caribou"
is a twin engine utility passenger-cargo aircraft capable of carrying loads in
excess of five tons. Its exceptional short take off and landing characteristics
enable it to operate from jungle airstrips, beach heads and other restricted
airfields normally accessible only to light aircraft.
The
Turbo Caribou structure is conventional, simple and rugged and is capable of
absorbing maximum punishment with a minimum of field maintenance.
The full
span double slotted flaps and large tail provide excellent control and
maneuverability, particularly for low level, low speed operations in forward
areas. A wide center of gravity range allows an unusual variety of cargo
loading arrangements.
The
Turbo Caribou cabin is convertible in minutes to any one of several
configurations, including Fuel Tanker, Vehicle Transporter, or Freighter. As a
civil transport, it accommodates 30 passengers and baggage. A collapsible
rubber bladder tank can be quickly installed to facilitate the carriage of
fuels like Diesel, Jet A1 or Avgas. The tank may also he plumbed to a dispersal
system for oil pollution control.
Cargo
tie down points are liberally provided, permitting full use of the entire floor
area. The floor is designed for high density loading 2OO lb/sq. ft. Structural
provisions are incorporated for a monorail and cargo buffer boards can be
provided on the sidewalls.
Inward facing "Utility" type seats, which fold compactly against the wall when not in use.
The
Turbo Caribou can be converted to an air ambulance to accommodate 22 standard
litters and 4 seats for attendants or sit-up cases. Hospital equipment can be
carried in combination with various arrangements for Seats and litters.
A large
rear cargo loading doors facilitate the rapid handling of bulky cargo and
contribute to short ground turn around times. Separate passenger loading doors
are provided on both sides of the rear fuselage.
The rear
loading door, approximately 38.2 sq. ft. (11.57 sq. m) in area is built in two
parts. The upper portion retracts into the tail roof structure, permitting a
3-ton truck to back into the opening. The lower section acts as a ramp, which
can be adjusted to match truck bed heights. Cargo can then be quickly rolled
into the cabin on roller conveyors or a monorail can be installed.
With
portable ramp extensions, wheeled vehicles can be driven up or down the
adjustable sloping ramp under their own power. Heavy objects can he skidded in
and out with the assistance of a winch.
The
handling performance of the aircraft in flight is unaffected when flying with
the cargo doors open. This makes it possible to carry very long items of cargo,
such as pipes, by permitting them to project aft through the partially open
doors.