Hangar
The Aircraft of Consolidated
The aircraft designed and built by Consolidated Aircraft helped define American aviation and shaped the outcome of World War II. From early trainers to long-range bombers, these machines carried pilots, crews, and missions across continents and oceans.
This section of the archive introduces the major categories of Consolidated aircraft. Each category links to a deeper page exploring individual models, design features, purpose, and historical significance.
Training Aircraft
Before pilots could fly combat or long-range patrol missions, they needed dependable aircraft to learn in. Consolidated’s trainers were built to be stable, forgiving, and strong—capable of preparing new aviators for the challenges ahead.
These aircraft laid the foundation for generations of pilots who later flew in wartime and commercial service.
(Link to Training page)
Observation Aircraft
Designed for reconnaissance, spotting, and intelligence gathering, observation aircraft played a key role long before modern surveillance tools existed. These platforms combined long endurance with wide visibility, allowing crews to gather the information necessary to plan missions and protect forces.
(Link to Observation page)
Transport Aircraft
Transport and cargo aircraft served as the connective tissue of aviation logistics. They moved personnel, supplies, and equipment across enormous distances and through difficult environments.
Consolidated’s transport designs expanded America’s reach domestically and internationally.
(Link to Transports page)
Pursuit Aircraft
Before the term “fighter aircraft” became standard, pursuit planes represented the cutting edge of speed, maneuverability, and aerial tactics. They were built for interception, air defense, and close support.
Though not as widely known as Consolidated’s bombers and flying boats, pursuit aircraft were an essential part of early aviation development.
(Link to Pursuit page)
Seaplanes & Flying Boats
Flying boats and amphibious aircraft are some of the most iconic designs in Consolidated’s history. These machines extended aviation beyond the limits of runways and allowed long-range missions across oceans and remote regions.
Their ability to land on water made them invaluable for patrol, rescue, and exploration.
The PBY Catalina remains one of the most celebrated seaplanes ever built.
(Link to Seaplanes page)
Bombers
Consolidated’s bombers formed the backbone of American airpower in World War II. Capable of long-range missions and heavy payloads, these aircraft included the legendary B-24 Liberator and its naval derivative, the PB4Y-2 Privateer.
Bombers were designed for endurance, speed, and reliability—qualities essential to their global missions.
(Link to Bombers page)
Explore the Aircraft
Use the links above to navigate to each category.
Every page will expand on the aircraft’s origin, design, role in aviation history, and the missions that defined its legacy.