The CC-138: United Simple Airline's Unconventional Launchpad
The CC-138, a twin-turboprop utility aircraft, stands as the singular aircraft—and the very embodiment—of United Simple Airline, the state-owned flag carrier of the nation of United Simple.
Its presence is immediately distinctive, not least for the two discreetly integrated flare launchers mounted on its underbelly—a feature more commonly seen on military transports or civilian aircraft operating in high-risk zones. This echoes the historic defensive precautions adopted by airlines such as El Al, Israel’s national carrier.
An Acquisition Born from Resourcefulness
This particular CC-138 did not enter the fleet through conventional means. Instead, it represents a case of pragmatic ingenuity. The aircraft had been extensively damaged in a non-fatal incident on a Canadian airfield and was subsequently written off by its original operator’s insurers. The cost of repair and the logistical challenge of relocating the disabled airframe rendered it undesirable for resale or salvage by traditional means.
Seizing the opportunity, the government of United Simple initiated direct but informal negotiations with the Canadian government. What followed was an unconventional barter agreement:
United Simple would assume full ownership, recovery, and restoration of the damaged CC-138.
In exchange, it would supply 10 rugged, cold-weather utility vehicles, Humvee-style, developed by United Simple’s emerging domestic manufacturing sector.
As a symbolic sweetener, an additional 25 gallons of premium maple syrup were gifted to the Canadian government.
Interestingly, the utility vehicles were specifically allocated by Canada as a goodwill gesture to a domestic cooperative: Blue Hill Maple Syrup.
The National Rebuild Effort
Rather than outsourcing the restoration, United Simple turned the CC-138’s refurbishment into a nationwide project.
The extensive rebuild was undertaken by high school students enrolled in a specialized manufacturing class.
These students worked side-by-side with experienced mechanics from the United Simple Air Force, receiving the same pay and mentorship.
To ensure airworthiness and structural integrity, De Havilland Canada, the aircraft’s original manufacturer, sent a technical team to assist and supervise the project.
The flare launcher integration, while unusual for a civilian aircraft, was a calculated decision. Reflecting a dual-use philosophy, it enhances security and opens the possibility of search-and-rescue operations in remote or infrastructure-poor areas—key considerations for a young nation with vast, underdeveloped territory.
Symbol of Self-Reliance
Today, the CC-138—referred to simply by its model designation—has become much more than a utility plane. It’s a flying symbol of national pride, representing:
Self-reliance in the face of financial and logistical constraints
Hands-on education and skilled labor development
Creative diplomacy and non-monetary trade
And above all, the launch of United Simple’s own airline, proudly operated with a fleet of one.
A $5 Flight for All Citizens
Flights aboard the CC-138 are priced at a flat rate of $5 per person, ensuring that air travel remains accessible to every citizen.
Each flight includes:
A complimentary box of pizza
A free soda
A communal, celebratory atmosphere
For the first 10 flights, seats are allocated on a first-come, first-served basis to encourage public enthusiasm and engagement. Following this, a lottery system will be introduced to ensure fairness due to limited seating capacity.
The CC-138 is not just an aircraft.
It is a national achievement, a beacon of ingenuity, and a skybound promise of what United Simple can accomplish with determination, unity, and creativity.
Thanks to CHATGPT
Specifications
General Characteristics
- Predecessor CC-138 Twin Otter
- Created On Android
- Wingspan 65.0ft (19.8m)
- Length 49.8ft (15.2m)
- Height 19.8ft (6.0m)
- Empty Weight N/A
- Loaded Weight 9,957lbs (4,516kg)
Performance
- Horse Power/Weight Ratio 0.136
- Wing Loading 15.8lbs/ft2 (76.9kg/m2)
- Wing Area 631.8ft2 (58.7m2)
- Drag Points 4479
Parts
- Number of Parts 174
- Control Surfaces 4
- Performance Cost 724
Thanks to @ReinMcDeer
✈️ Quick Summary
United Simple Airline has one plane: a rebuilt CC-138.
Acquired from Canada via barter: 10 utility vehicles + 25 gallons of maple syrup.
Rebuilt by students and military with De Havilland’s help.
Fitted with flare launchers for safety.
Tickets cost $5—includes free pizza and soda.
First 10 flights: first-come seating; after that: lottery.
✈️ Full Story (Tight Version)
United Simple’s only airline flies a rebuilt CC-138, salvaged from Canada after being written off.
Traded for 10 utility trucks and 25 gallons of maple syrup.
Repaired by students, Air Force mechanics, and De Havilland.
Now equipped with flare launchers for remote safety.
Tickets: $5, with free pizza and soda.
Seats: first-come for 10 flights, then chosen by lottery.
A flying symbol of national pride and resourcefulness.
Caught you publishing...
You know what that means. ;3