5 Reasons Why This Was The Scariest Airplane Built

The Douglas AC-47 was one of the first fixed-wing gunships that was developed by the United States Air Force during the Vietnam War. 

Here are five reasons why this was arguably the scariest aircraft ever built:

1. It literally goes by the name, “Spooky!”

The plane was affectionately called by US troops as “Spooky.” Another famous nickname was “Puff the Magic Dragon.”

2.  It proved the concept of an aerial fixed-wing gunship as a CAS platform

Being former transport planes, they can stay aloft for longer periods and their massive size allowed them to carry large weapon and ordnance loads. 

Its slower speed was also seen as an advantage, allowing longer loiter times over a target which enhanced accuracy. 

3. AC-47s were built for flying night-time counterinsurgency missions in defense of hamlets and Special Forces camps 

It has also performed several other missions such as reconnaissance and cargo flying. 

4. It would light up incoming enemy invasion with flares and fire which strips away the defense of darkness

This somewhat created a psychological effect on enemy planes, which allowed it to take on a mythical identity and live up to its name, “Puff the Magic Dragon.” 

It also offered fast, accurate close support, shooting 8,000 rpm on targets 8,000 feet away.

5. Even more impressive are the ones that flew this legendary plane

Airman 1st Class John Levitow was flying with his crew aboard the AC-47 when an enemy ground mortar exploded on the aircraft’s wing.

Although severely wounded, Levitow managed to pull unconscious crew members away from the aircraft’s door and pushed a live flare from the gunship. 

This heroic deed allowed him to save himself and everyone on board. Levitow received the Medal of Honor for his actions.