P-38 Lightnings on Carrier Deck

Lockheed P-38 Lightnings and North American P-51 Mustangs are transported aboard a US Navy escort carrier enroute to Europe during WWII. While neither of these types were capable of operating from a carrier, they were commonly disassembled and loaded onto lighter escort carriers for long-distance transport. Wings, propellers, and control surfaces were removed and engines and canopies were covered for protection from the elements during the transport.

Lockheed P-38 Lightnings
Piper Cub Catapult Takeoff
February 9, 2026

Piper Cub Catapult Takeoff

An industrious aircraft salesman develops a system of elastic bands to launch his Piper Cub from small clearings, enabling operation from his backyard.
Pan Am Helicopter Transfer
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Pan Am Helicopter Transfer

A ramp view of passengers transferring between an airliner and a helicopter for quick and easy access to Manhattan.
Tangential Runway Concept
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Airport Design: The Tangential Runway Concept

A novel airport design concept emerged in the 1940s, promising speed and efficiency, but ultimately failed to overcome regulatory and operational realities.