Consolidated RY-3 in flight
The Consolidated PB4Y-2 Privateer, much like other aircraft in the Liberator series, saw conversion into a passenger and cargo transport under the designation Model 101. This adaptation involved significant modifications to meet its new role effectively.
Key Features and Modifications of the Model 101 (RY-3):
Structural Modifications:
- Fuselage: The fuselage was reconfigured to accommodate a crew of four and up to 28 passengers.
- Cargo Door: A cargo door was installed on the left rear fuselage to facilitate loading and unloading.
- Hinged Nose: The nose of the aircraft was hinged, allowing access to a forward cargo compartment capable of carrying up to 1600 pounds of freight.
Designation and Capacity:
- Designation: The modified aircraft was designated RY-3.
- Cargo Capacity: In an all-freight configuration, the RY-3 could carry up to 25,615 pounds of cargo.
Production and Delivery:
- Initial Order: In March 1944, the Navy ordered 112 examples of the RY-3.
- Deliveries: Only 34 were delivered, with approximately 26 going to the Royal Air Force (RAF), a few to the US Marine Corps, and one retained by Consolidated.
- Cancellations: Orders for 63 additional units for the RAF and a variant for the USAAF known as the C-87E were canceled.
Service with the RAF:
- First Delivery: The first aircraft for the RAF was delivered on 7 February 1945.
- Designation and Use: Known as the Liberator IX, these aircraft were assigned to Transport Command’s No. 45 Group and mainly operated from bases in Canada. They were used by Nos. 231 and 232 Squadrons for long-range flights across the Pacific.
- Accidents and Withdrawal: After three fatal accidents, concerns about the aircraft’s airworthiness led to the withdrawal of all but one survivor on 16 April 1946. The remaining aircraft were soon scrapped.
Surviving Aircraft:
- Ice Testing: The sole surviving RY-3 was supplied to the RCAF and used as a platform for ice testing, highlighting its versatility even after its primary operational role had ended.