Boeing has outlined more details of the high-capacity, long-range cargo aircraft concept dubbed the Pelican, or ultra-large transport aircraft (ULTRA). Under study by the Phantom Works for military and commercial applications, the Pelican would rely on ground effect to extend transoceanic range capability to 18,500km (10,000nm) while carrying loads of up to 680,000kg (1,500,000lb). With a span of over 150m (500ft), the Pelican would be powered by up to four advanced turboprops and equipped with up to 38 sets of landing-gear legs to operate from conventional runways. The Pelican would transport up to 17 M1 main battle tanks on a single sortie, and would be capable of cruising at altitudes up to 20,000ft over land. Out-of-ground-effect range would be reduced to around 12,000km, says Boeing.
Source: Flight International
