The Glider Infantryman's primary mode of transportation was the Combat Glider Model #4A, designed and built by the WACO (pronounced wah-co) Aircraft Company. Although the U.S. Army also used the British Horsa glider (which was constructed completely of plywood, was much bigger, and could carry a larger payload) in limited numbers, the mainstay of the U.S. airborne operations involved the CG-4A. The CG-4A was 48 feet, 4 inches long, with a wingspan of 83 feet, 8 inches. Construction was of tubular steel frame with canvas covering, and plywood flooring and wings. It could carry a normal load of 7,500 pounds, but in emergencies could handle up to a maximum of 9,000 pounds.
In practical terms, the CG-4A would normally carry one of the following loads:
13 fully equipped glider troops
1 37mm anti-tank gun
1 1/4 ton truck (Jeep)
1 field kitchen
1 75mm pack howitzer
1 photographic lab
1 weather station
1 field set - radio or radar
1 field repair shop
6 litters for evacuation of wounded