C-40A Clipper.
The C-40A Clipper provides critical logistics support to the Navy. It's flight deck features a flight management computer system with an integrated GPS. It is compatible with future GATM/FANS operating environment (RNP-1). It is RVSM capable. It has the Traffic Alert and Collision Avoidnace System II on board. It also has an enhanced ground proximity warning system, predictive wind shear, head-up display and TACAN/UHF/IFF functions.

The U.S. Naval Reserve — which operates and maintains the aircraft — is the first customer for the newest member of the Boeing Next-Generation 737 family. The Clipper was ordered by the Navy to replace its fleet of aging C-9 Skytrainss. The C-40A is the first new logistics aircraft in 17 years to join the Naval Reserve. Currently, the Naval Reserve provides 100 percent of the Navy's worldwide in-theater medium and heavy airlift.

The Clipper meets or exceeds international noise and environmental requirements that plague the current fleet of Naval Reserve C-9s. It is also more fuel-efficient and offers increased range and payload capabilities.

The 737-700C aircraft is certified to operate in an all-passenger (121 passengers), all-cargo or combination ("combi") configuration that will accommodate up to three cargo pallets and 70 passengers on the main deck.

The Navy purchased the airplanes using standard commercial practices, and ordered six of the 737-700C models. The first two of four aircraft were delivered in April 21, 2001, to Logistics Support Squadron Fifty Nine (VR-59) at the Naval Air Station/Joint Reserve Base Fort Worth, Texas. The remainder later in the year. The fifth and sixth aircraft were delivered in August 2002 to VR-58 at the Naval Air Station, Jacksonville, Florida.

General Characteristics

  • Primary Function: Fleet logistics support.
  • Contractor: The Boeing Company, Seattle, Washington
  • Propulsion: Two CFM56-7 SLST engines
  • Length: 110 feet 4 inches (33.63 meters)
  • Height: 41 feet 2 inches (12.55 meters)
  • Wingspan: 112 feet 7 inches (34.3 meters)
  • Weight:
    • Max. gross, take-off: 171,000 lbs (77,564 kg)
    • Taxi: 171,000 lbs (77,564 kg)
    • Landing: 134,000 lbs (60,781 kg)
    • Zero fuel: 126,000 lbs (57,153 kg)
  • Cruising Speed: Range: 0.78 to 0.82 Mach (585 to 615 mph, 940 to 990 kph)
  • Ceiling: 41,000 feet (12,497 meters)
  • Range: 3,000 nautical miles (3,452 statute miles) with 121 passengers or 40,000 lbs. (18,144 kg) of cargo
  • Crew: Four
  • Operational: April 21, 2001, VR-59 Ft. Worth, Texas.