The 'metalwork' on the back end of the freight bay was fitted post '58 - (when I left). The Bev's 'wake' was quite powerful and, when operating load drops, the freight bay 'clam-shells' were removed and 'elephant ears' were fitted to prevent wake interference. They were originally designed to deal with the problem of para dropping from the boom with the clam shells removed. ... the initial test drops (with dummies) resulted in the dummies being 'diverted' into the freight bay, instead of dropping clear !!
As a one-time 'meat bomb' despatcher, I wouldn't be happy having that sort of metalwork to the rear of the freight bay side doors, so Treadders may be close to the mark.
Generally speaking, our 'meat bomb customers reckoned that the boom floor exit gave the smoothest exit of any.
On a sadder note, that boom exit door cost the life of our co-pilot on an intended early morning departure from K'sar - RIP
Last edited by Cornish Jack; 8th Aug 2022 at 21:49.