Spectacular rocket assisted take-off

Geoffrey Thomas

By Geoffrey Thomas Mon Sep 23, 2019

This spectacular rocket assisted take-off involves a Lockheed C-130 transport used as a support for the US Navy Blue Angeles. READ: New report critical of pilots of MAX crashes. Rocket assisted take-offs have been around for decades and while mainly used with military aircraft have been used by commercial aircraft, such as the Douglas DC-9. https://www.facebook.com/combatlearjet/videos/386933502202855/?t=0   JATO rockets were used extensively on piston-engined military transports in the 1950s which had limited power.
Image
The Lockheed R6V Constitution JATO powered for take-off because it was underpowered.
The world's first jet airliner the Comet included a provision to carry two JATO rockets and these were tested at hot and high airfields such as Khartoum and Nairobi. But engine upgrades to the Comet rendered them unnecessary  The Boeing 727 also had provision for JATO rockets but they were not used. However, they were fitted and used on the Douglas DC-9.
Image
ONA DC-9 with JATO rockets
       

Have questions or want to share your thoughts?

Comments

No comments yet, be the first to write one.

Latest news and reviews

View more
Which airline is the safest in Indonesia?
Airline News

Which airline is the safest in Indonesia?

Jul 10, 2026

Sharon Petersen
K2 crash latest update
Airline News

K2 crash latest update

Jul 10, 2026

Airline Ratings
K2 Airways Boeing 737 vanishes off Pakistan
Airline News

K2 Airways Boeing 737 vanishes off Pakistan

Jul 7, 2026

Josh Wood
Which airline is the safest in the Philippines?
Airline News

Which airline is the safest in the Philippines?

Jul 7, 2026

Sharon Petersen

Featured articles

View more
EVA Airways Business Class: Still impressive, but not cutting edge
Airline Ratings review

EVA Airways Business Class: Still impressive, but not cutting edge

Jun 25, 2026

Airline Ratings
K2 crash latest update
Airline News

K2 crash latest update

Jul 10, 2026

Airline Ratings
Which airline is the safest in Indonesia?
Airline News

Which airline is the safest in Indonesia?

Jul 10, 2026

Sharon Petersen
Malaysia Airlines recognised as a Seven Star PLUS safety rated airline
Airline News

Malaysia Airlines recognised as a Seven Star PLUS safety rated airline

Jun 24, 2026

Airline Ratings