Why Most WWII Pilots Generally Preferred the B-17 Over the B-24

During World War II, the Boeing B-17 Flying Fortress and the Consolidated B-24 Liberator were two of the most important bombers used by the United States Army Air Forces. Both played major roles in the war, particularly in strategic bombing missions over Europe and the Pacific. While the B-24 was produced in greater numbers and had some advantages, many pilots preferred the B-17 for its durability, ease of handling, and ability to withstand damage in combat.

Design and Durability

The B-17 had a traditional high-wing design with four engines and a strong, rugged airframe. Its structure allowed it to absorb significant damage and still return to base, a feature that gave crews greater confidence in their survival chances. There were many instances where B-17s made it back safely despite having engines knocked out or large sections of the fuselage destroyed.

The B-24, in contrast, had a more modern design with a unique Davis wing, which was long and narrow to improve speed and fuel efficiency. While this design helped with range and bomb load, it also made the aircraft more vulnerable. The B-24’s structure was not as strong as the B-17’s, making it more likely to break apart when hit by enemy fire. The placement of its fuel tanks also made it more susceptible to catching fire when damaged.

Bomb Load and Range

One of the biggest advantages of the B-24 was its larger bomb load and longer range. It could carry up to 8,000 pounds of bombs over long distances, compared to the B-17’s typical 6,000-pound load. This made the B-24 useful for missions that required extended range, especially in the Pacific, where distances between bases and targets were much greater.

Despite this, many crews still preferred the B-17 for European missions, where the ability to withstand enemy fire was often more important than carrying a few extra bombs. In the heavily defended skies over Germany, survivability was a greater concern than range.

Handling and Crew Comfort

Pilots generally found the B-17 easier to fly and more stable in the air. Its controls were more forgiving, making it less demanding to handle, especially during takeoff and landing. The B-24, on the other hand, had heavier controls and required more effort to maneuver, which made it tiring to fly on long missions.

The B-17 also had a more spacious cockpit and better overall crew accommodations. The B-24’s interior was more cramped, as the design prioritized bomb load and fuel capacity over comfort. This made long missions more difficult for crews, especially in cold, high-altitude conditions.

Maintenance and Reliability

Ground crews found the B-17 easier to maintain and repair. Its simple, durable design allowed for quicker fixes, which kept more planes operational. The B-24’s more complex design, particularly its intricate fuel system and wing structure, required more maintenance and took longer to repair. In the field, where quick turnaround times were critical, this made the B-17 a more reliable option.

Production and Legacy

Despite the B-17’s advantages in durability and handling, the B-24 was produced in greater numbers, with over 18,000 built compared to around 12,700 B-17s. The B-24’s versatility allowed it to be used not just for bombing but also for maritime patrols and cargo transport. However, in terms of reputation, the B-17 remains more widely recognized for its role in the war.

The B-17 became an icon of American air power, remembered for its toughness and role in daylight bombing campaigns over Europe. Many surviving B-17s are preserved in museums and airshows, while the B-24, despite its contributions, is less well remembered by the public.

Why Pilots Preferred the B-17

Ultimately, while the B-24 had advantages in range and bomb load, most pilots and crews preferred the B-17. Its durability, ease of handling, and reliability made it a safer and more dependable aircraft in combat. The ability to survive damage and return home was often more valuable than carrying extra bombs or flying a little farther. This is why, even though the B-24 played a major role in the war, the B-17 is still regarded as one of the most legendary bombers of World War II.