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 TakeoffHe then positioned the Cub for takeoff, shut down the engine, and prepared for the launch.

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
January 29, 2026

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
December 15, 2025

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.