The first post-World War II commercial transport designed by Consolidated Vultee was evolved primarily as a DC-3 replacement. The prototype first flew at San Diego on 16 March 1947 and the first licensed aircraft was delivered to American Airlines on 28 February 1948. Altogether 176 were built. Accommodation was provided for 40 passengers. The aircraft was powered by two 1,788kW Pratt & Whitney R-2800-CA18 radial engines.
Military versions of the 240 were produced as the T-29A to E aircrew trainers for navigators and bombardiers; and as the C-131A Samaritan personnel or casualty evacuation transport accommodating 37 passengers or 27 stretchers.
