Martin 2-0-2

The Martin 2-0-2 was one of the first modern airliners. The twin-engined piston aircraft was designed and built by the Glenn L. Martin Company. Glenn L. Martin, president of the company, intended that the Model 202 would be a replacement for the DC-3. It was also known as the "Martin Executive". The first flight of the Model 2-0-2 was in November 1946. Full civilian certification was gained in August 1947. This was several months before competing... more

The Martin 2-0-2 was one of the first modern airliners. The twin-engined piston aircraft was designed and built by the Glenn L. Martin Company. Glenn L. Martin, president of the company, intended that the Model 202 would be a replacement for the DC-3. It was also known as the "Martin Executive". The first flight of the Model 2-0-2 was in November 1946. Full civilian certification was gained in August 1947. This was several months before competing aircraft types. The total production of 2-0-2 and 2-0-2A was 47 aircraft. The aircraft was non-pressurized but was considered a long range airliner. A fatal crash in 1948 revealed a serious structural problem in the wings. Structural metal fatigue was the problem in a major wing spar. Alloy 7075-T6 was used, which is susceptible to stress-corrosion cracking and low toughness. The airliner was grounded and modifications were made. The wing components were redesigned and the engines replaced. The changed type was designated the Martin 2-0-2A.... less