The Douglas A-1 Skyraider was a legendary American single-seat attack aircraft known for its rugged design, incredible payload capacity, and long combat endurance. It served primarily in the U.S. Navy, Marine Corps, and Air Force from the late 1940s through the early 1970s. The Skyraider earned a reputation as one of the most effective close air support and search-and-rescue escort aircraft of its time, particularly during the Korean and Vietnam Wars.
 
General Overview
Manufacturer: Douglas Aircraft Company (later McDonnell Douglas)
Role: Attack aircraft / Close air support
First Flight: March 18, 1945
Entered Service: 1946
Retired: 1972 (U.S. service; some foreign operators used it longer)
Nicknames:
“Spad” (after the WWI biplane due to its radial engine and old-school look)
“Able Dog” (from its original designation, AD)
“Sandy” (call sign in Vietnam when escorting rescue missions)