The Bréguet 941 was a four-engine turboprop short takeoff and landing (STOL) aircraft that made its first flight on June 1, 1961. The prototype was rigorously tested in France and the United States and was known as the McDonnell 188 on the western side of the Atlantic. Despite its ambitious features, it wasn't taken on by any commercial airlines.
Only a single prototype and four production aircraft were built. This article dives into history and explores how and why McDonnel 188 was developed and how it failed. Providing solutions As the 1950s approached, Louise Charles Breguet began developing a concept for a STOL aircraft.
The French aviation pioneers developed a plane that would drive a common powershaft, which then drove four large propellers. These would be equally separated across the leading edge of the wing with extensive, full-span, slotted flaps. STOL planes are designed for flights that operate on short runways.
Several of these aircraft are also equipped to serve on runways in volatile conditions. For example, operations on fields at high altitudes or airports with icy surfaces are often better suited to being conducted with STOL units. After a decade of working on the project and experimental prototypes, Breguet had the 941 ready to fly.
Utilizing a brand new engine design, unfortunately the type never reached production. Across the pond Crew: 2 Capacity: 57 civil passengers or 40 fully loaded troops or 24 stretchers Length: 23.75 m (77 ft 11 in) Wingspan: 23.
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