The prototype Noratlas first flew in 1949 powered by 2x 1625hp(1212kW) SNECMAS. The main production version was the N.2501 and other versions were built including the N.2502 IS for the Israeli Air Force. They entered service with the French Air Force in 1951 and 186 were operated by the Luftwaffe, most of the German examples being built in Germany by Flugzeugbau Nord. A versatile aircraft, it was used for paradropping, casualty evacuation, troop transport and cargo transport, having the ability to lift 7.5 tons of freight. The last example was withdrawn from French service in 1989. One example is maintained in airworthy condition by a French aircraft preservation society.

F-GEXR                    c/n 135                     France

47 seat military transport first flown in 1950