Larry Westin's
Classic General Aviaition
Aircraft 1940 - 1965 Photo Page
by Larry Westin
The Larry Westin Classic General Aviation Aircraft 1940-1965 features piston engine, propeller driven general aviaition aircraft.  The quarter century between 1940 and 1965 is known as the classic period for general aviation.  Many of today's general aviation aircraft, such as the Beech Bonanza were designed and built during this period.  Most of these images are "period" or factory images taken when the aircraft was new or shortly after entering service, rather than recently restored examples.  Most are now sized to show full screen when your display is set to 600x800 resolution so you can see some detail, while I've scanned later photographs at higher resolution to give even better detail. Last updated 06/24/09.

NOTE - All the actual images are stored on the Stinsonflyer server.  My thanks to David Talley for making disk space available on that server so this page is possible! At one time this link was identified as "My Favorite Propeller Driven Aircraft."   The aircraft shown on this earlier link are all now shown on Images of Propeller Driven Transport Aircraft.This link is now devoted to General Aviation aircraft.

Inflight view of  Aero Commander 100 Darter Commander, N6666D. Originally built by the Volaircraft company as the model 10, later the model 10A. This airplane is currently on the FAA register as a Volaircraft model 10A, serial number 10A-026. North American Rockwell purchased the rights to this airplane in 1965 for manufacturing by their Aero Commander divison. Aero Commander named it the Darter Commander, with 150 HP Lycoming engine. Later Aero Commander developed the airplane with a 180 HP Lycoming engine, renaming it the Lark Commander.  B&W, about 103K, Added 11/11/08.

Inflight view of  Aero Commander 200, N2921T.  The Aero Commander 200 was originally the Meyers 200 (see below for a ground view of the Meyers 200).  One difference between the Meyers 200 and the Aero Commander 200 is the engine.  In the Meyers 200 the engine is a Continental IO-470 of 260 HP, in the Aero Commander 200 the engine is a Continental IO-520 of 285HP.  This example is serial number 326, and is current on the US register.  B&W, about 101K, Added 11/02/05.

Inflight view of an Aero Commander 500-B, registration N9386R. This is the 1960 model which was the first Aero Commanders to use the slimmer engine nacelles. In 1960 the models 500A and 500B were both manufactured, and look very similar. The 500A uses Continental IO-470 enines, the 500B uses Lycoming IO-540 engines. A major change was needed to allow the slimmer nacelles. With the slimmer nacelles it became necessary to rotate the landing gear 90 degrees so it could lay flat when retracted. With the earlier larger nacelles there was adequate room for the landing gear to retract straight back. B&W, about 105K, Added 04/01/09.

Very nice Inflight view of an Aero Commander 560-A, registration N2758B.  The images of the Aero Commander 560 shown here represent the original design with the larger engine nacelles.  Using the same fuselage design, Aero Commander would make a significant change to the engine nacelle beginning with the 1960 year.  N2758B was built in 1955, serial number 258.  B&W, about 112K, Added 02/18/06.

Very nice Inflight view of an Aero Commander 560, registration N2673B.  This is serial number 173, built in 1954. B&W, about 154K, Added 11/18/05.  Here is another very nice view of Aero Commander 560 N2673B, again inflight, this time from a slightly different, lower angle.  B&W about 70K. Added 02/18/06.

Inflight view of an Aero Commander 680 as the USAF L-26C-AD serial number 55-4647.  Aero Commander serial number 680-315-10.  This aircraft was for used as a presidential aircraft. President Eisenhower did fly in it. It was later redesignated as U-4B. Color, about 135K, Added 07/07/05.

Ground view of an Aero Commander 680 N9602.   B&W, about 81K, Added 02/23/06.

Inflight view of an Aero Commander 720 Alti Cruiser.  Registration N7200.  The Aero Commander 720 was, I believe, the first production light aircraft to be pressurized.  Certainly airliners had long had pressurization, but not light general aviation aircraft.  Only about 30 of the model 720's were manufacutred.  B&W, about 63K, Added 02/23/06

Inflight view of an Aerocar Model I, N31214. This combination car/airplane first built in 1949 by designer Moulton B. Taylor.  Some sources say the airplanes had a Lycoming O-290, others say a Lycoming O-320.  The wings and tail can be removed and towed behind when used as an automobile.  Believe 5 of the model 1's were built.  B&W, about 63K, Added 03/30/02.

Inflight view of an Aeronca 7AC Champion, N number not visible.  B&W, about 30K, Added 01/01/02.

Ground view of a Aeronca 7AC Champion, NC1747E.  This particular airplane has wheel pants on, which was not too common for the Aeronca 7AC.  Airplane shown is a 1946 model, serial number 7AC-5314.  B&W, about 78K, Added 01/01/02.

Ground view of a Aeronca 15AC Sedan, NC1100H.  The Sedan is a four place airplane.  B&W, about 87K, Added 03/30/02.

Ground view of a Bay Aviation Super V, N249C? (maybe N349C).  The Super V is a Beech Bonanza modified to twin engine configuration. There are differing reports on this airplane. One incorrect report is the conversion is of the Beech C-35 Bonanza. The Super V serial numbers have both an original Beech Bonanza serial number plus a Super V serial number. Those serial numbers indicate most existing conversions were from straight 35 Bonanzas, with others from an A-35 model. Originally converted by David Peterson of Tulsa, then Oakland Aviation, later Bay Aviation Services, then Pine Air Ltd., and finally Fleet Aircraft Co. Some sources say 9 aircraft were converted, other sources say 5 aircraft were converted, however serial numbers go to 16. Some are on the FAA register as Bay Aviation, others as Pine Air Ltd. Power by two Lycoming O-360 engines, each of 180HP. B&W, about 80K, Added 04/10/08.

Inflight view of Beech UC-43, USAAF 43-10828. The UC-43 is the same as the Beech D-17S.  The Beech 17 is a true classic. B&W, about 84K, added 07/07/05.

Ground view of Beech UC-43, USAAF 44-76068. This is Beech construction number 6913, which was delivered to the U.S. Navy as a GB-2, bureau number of 23733. The Navy then transferred the airplane to the USAAF as 44-76068. Aircraft is now part of the National Museum of the United States Air Force, Wright-Patterson AFB, Ohio. B&W, about 72K, Added 03/17/07.

Ground view of Beech D-17S, registration NC162. This photo was taken in 1949.  The Beech 17 is a true classic often referred to as the "Staggerwing Beech" because the top wing is positioned behind the lower wing.  The wing position relationship is seen well in this view.  B&W, about 92K, added 12/24/05.

View of a Beech D-17S Instrument panel. B&W, about 68K, added 02/14/07.

Ground view of Beech D-17W NC17081. This is the first of 2 Beech D17W's built, construction number 136. This airplane was used by Jacqueline Cochran to set a woman's speed record of 203 mph in June 1937. Later Jacqueline Cochran flew the other Beech D17W, NX18562, cn 164 to set a altitude record of 30,052 feet in 1939, as well as other records. NC17081 was converted by Beech in October 1937 to D17S standard. B&W, about 99K, added 03/01/08.

Nice in flight view of Beech G-17S, registration NC21934. This airplane began as the last D-17S and was converted into the prototype G-17S, construction number 424, still active on the FAA register. B&W, about 118K, added 02/02/07.

In flight view of Beech G-17S, registration NC80302. This airplane is the first production Beech model G-17S, serial number B-1. B&W, about 92K, added 05/26/07.

Ground view of a Beech 18 built for the USAAF as a C-45F, with cn 8440, USAAF serial number 44-87181. After WWII ended the airplane was given to the California Department of Fish and Game, at which time the civil registration of NC4758N was assigned and the airplane identified on the registry as a C-18S, the equivilant civil model to the C-45F. Here is a view of Beech C-18S N4758N. This airplane is current on the FAA register, owned by the same company since 1977. Note the main landing gear forks which are welded, while later Beech 18's have an arched formed fork. Also note the large spinners, these were used with Hamilton Standard constant speed, but not feathering propellers. Some USAAF Beech 18's had Aeroproducts full feathering propellers, but the CAA required these be replaced before civil certification. Later the USAAF, then the USAF, removed the Aeroproducts propellers and replaced them with Hamilton Standard Hydromatic full feathering propellers, which became the most common propeller on Beech 18's. B&W, about 75K, added 05/17/09.

Inflight view of the first post WWII built Beech D-18S, NC44592, serial number A-1. B&W, about 113K, added 02/02/07.

Inflight view of a USAF Beech C-45G, serial number 51-11495, serial number AF-52. The Beech C-45G is the military version of the model 18. The C-45G was a World War II remanufactured C-45, AT-7 or AT-11. A heavier center section, and extended upper nacelles distinguished the remanufactured model 18. The C-45G had a Jack and Heinz autopilot, and Aero Products propellers. Beech remanufactured 372 into C-45G configuration. B&W, about 128K, added 02/03/07.

Ground view of a USAF Beech C-45H, serial number 52-10749, serial number AF-679. This Beech C-45H is on the FAA register as N9593Z. Like the C-45G, the C-45H was a remanufactured World War II C-45. Differences between the G and H model, the H had no auto pilot, and Hamilton Standard propellers were used. Beech remanufactured 432 aircraft into C-45H configuration. B&W, about 94K, added 03/01/08.

Inflight view of a Beech D-18S, NC80048, serial number A-109. Paint scheme has the Big Dipper and the North Star on the nose. Airplane first owend by Virginia Coal and Iron Company. A photograph of this airplane appeared on the cover of the Beech  D-18S 1947 brochure.  B&W, about 60K, added 04/11/99, rescanned 02/03/07 to higher resolution.

Inflight view of Beech D-18S, N5873C. The Beech 18 is a favorite of mine. This is serial number A-578.  Note the top of the cabin which is painted white.  This is done to keep the cabin cooler by reflecting the sun. This airplane is current on the FAA register as N224A. B&W, about 79K, added 04/11/99, rescanned 02/03/07 to higher resolution.

Inflight view of a Beech E-18S, N3460B.  Note the 6 inches of added height of the cabin introduced with the "E" model, the first "Super 18." In addition to the extra cabin height, the E-18S incorporated a lengthened strut for the tail wheel, raised horizontal stabilizer, needle nose, with redesigned, lengthened and cambered wing tips.  All these changes made for a much better handling airplane, especially at take-off and landing, with a higher cruise speed even at a higher gross weight.  Serial number is BA-1, the first Beech E-18S.  My thanks to Mike Ramsey, e-mail Mikeabi@webtv.net for providing me with an understanding of the improvements in the "E" model Beech 18.  B&W, about 155K, added 1/1/02, updated 10/13/02.

Very nice Inflight view of a 1959  Beech E-18S, N19U.  This view shows the new Horner wing tips well. Airplane serial number is BA-380.  B&W, about 69K, added 04/12/06.

Instrument panel view of Beech 18, I believe this is an E-18S instrument panel.  The radios give some indication, 2 ADF's, 2 Collins Omnis, 1 Collins 17L-3 VHF communications transceiver, a standby ARC T-11B transmitter (about 6 frequencies).  Back of the photo says "Pillsbury Beechcraft 1955."  B&W, about 177K. Added 10/05/05.

Instrument panel view of Beech E-18S, N54608. B&W, about 92K. Added 01/01/02.

Inflight view of Beech G-18S, N9933R.  This model introduced the panoramic windows on each side of the cabin.  B&W, about 46K, Added 01/01/02.

Beautiful inflight view of a 1963 Beech H-18, N989B.  This was the final model 18 built by Beech. Production would continue until 1969. Later in production Beech would make a tri-cycle landing gear optional, this image shows the H-18 with original conventional landing gear. B&W, about 92K, Added 02/02/07.

Ground view of a 1963 Beech H-18 with Tri Gear, N422X, serial number BA-652. The Tricycle gear for the model 18 was developed by Volpar, Inc., at Van Nuys, California. During 1963 Beech purchased the kit from Volpar to convert the H18 to a tri cycle gear version. Use of "trainning wheels"  (Tri Cycle Landing Gear instead of the tailwheel conventional landing gear) made the model 18 much easier to handle during take off and landing. This conversion was very popular for the remainder of model 18 production.  This particular aircraft was the first Beech factory production tri gear H18, delivered to the Govenor of New York in late 1963, with the registration N22X. B&W, about 118K, Added 05/26/07.

Instrument panel view of Beech H-18, N925H, serial number BA-695, a 1964 H-18. B&W, about 135K. Added 02/18/07.

Inflight view of Beech 35 Bonanza, NX80040, serial D-4.  Beech built 5 prototypes D-1 to D-5. Airframes D-1, D-2 and D-5 were not flown, rather used for fatigue testing. Airframe D-3 was the first Bonanza to fly on December 22, 1945. D-3 used a laminar flow wing and a 4 clinder Lycoming engine. This image shows airframe D-4, the second Bonanza to fly, and the first to use the now familiar NACA 23000 wing and a Continental E Series engine. Serial D-4 shown with this image was used for certification flying, including dive tests to 286 MPH. This airplane has fabric covered ruddervators. Later this airplane, now certified and registered N80040, was used by Captain Bill Odom to establish a light plane long distance non-stop record flight of 4,957 miles from Honolulu to Teterboro, NJ, in March 1949. Odom named the airplane "Waikiki Beech." Later the airplane was renamed "Friendship Flame" and flow around the world by Representative Peter F. Mack Jr. Today N80040 D-4 is in the National Air and Space Museum of the Smithsonian, in Washington, D.C. Serial number D-4 is the oldest flyable Bonanza in existence. Today a different Bonanza, serial number D-398, flies with this same registration number. B&W, about 71K, Added 05/01/07.

Very nice ground view of Beech 35 Bonanza, NC2703V.  This is a 1947, very early production airplane, serial number D-79. This view shows the original variable pitch (but not constant speed) wooden 2 blade propeller.  Early Bonanza's had this high polished wooden propeller. Later Beech changed to a plastic coated, black in color, wooden propeller. The variable pitch was controlled in the cockpit by a toggle switch, with the pitch change mechanism an electric motor.  B&W, about 107K, Added 04/22/07.

Inflight view of Beech 35 Bonanza, NC2751V.  This is a 1947, very early production airplane, serial number D-136.  B&W, about 53K, Added 01/01/02.

Instrument Panel view of Beech 35 Bonanza.  This shows the initial Bonanza instrument panel, which included the Motorola Avigator radio at the left side of the panel as standard.  This was the only aircraft radio I ever saw which included pre-set push button tunning, although it was quite common in automobiles of the period.  Throw over control wheel is shown in this photo in the co-pilot position.  B&W, about 61K, Added 01/01/02.

Inflight view of Beech A35 Bonanza, N788B.  Look carefully and you can see the low frequency trailing wire antenna which passed through a support between the butterfly tail surfaces.  The antenna retracted in for landing.  B&W, about 64K, added 1/1/02, updated 10/13/02.

Ground view of Beech A35 Bonanza, N7109.  This view shows the plastic covered wooden adjustable (but not constant speed) Beech propeller.  The prop pitch is adjustable with an electric motor controlled by a switch to the left of the throttle.  B&W, about 92K, added 12/24/05.

Instrument Panel view of Beech B35 Bonanza, N5135C, serial number D-2420.  "B" model Bonanza's came from the factory with a low frequency radio, so this panel has been upgraded.  This view shows the Lear LTRA-5 at the left side of the panel.  Note the interesting Lear Omni Scope to the right of the engine instruments.  This was a cathode ray tube instrument which displayed a circular sweep.  When the sweep passed the radial you were on, of the tuned in VOR, there was a blip on the screen!  The Omni Scope was also offered with the later Lear LTRA-6, but the only installations I ever flew were with the LTRA-5.  Note additionally there is a Lear ADF-12 and a RT-10C stand by VHF transmitter.  Very well equipped for 1950!  Throw over control wheel in the co-pilot position.  B&W, about 52K, Updated 01/07/02.

Inflight view of Beech C35 Bonanza, N5942C.  This model introduced 20% wider V-Tail surfaces at a slightly different angle, and wing root fillets.  B&W, about 46K, Added 01/01/02.

Inflight view of Beech D35 Bonanza, N2064D, serial number D-3405, the fifth D model manufactured.  This airplane is current on the FAA register. B&W, about 163K, Added 11/01/08.

Inflight view of Beech E35 Bonanza, N5932C, a 1954 model Bonanza.  The standard engine is the Continental E-185-11, with a 205HP take off rating and 185 HP continuous.  The E model Bonanza was the first year the E-225-8 engine of 225HP was offerred optionally.  The E model was the last year the Bonanza was manufactured with only two side windows.  This airplane has the omni antenna below the tail. Also the Bonanza has a fiberglass tail cone which often housed the ADF loop antenna.  This airplane has two long wire antennas, one going to each ruddervator, tied together at the front antenna mast then entering with a single lead in at the insulator in front of the windshield. This indicates the airplane is equipped with an ADF  (very common for the period).  This Bonanza is serial number D-3293.  My thanks to Ron Davis for providing the image.  B&W, about 168K, Added 11/24/06.

Inflight view of 1956 Beech G35 Bonanza, N4210D, serial number D-4415.  The G model was the last Bonanza to use the Continental E Series engines.  The G35 used the 225HP E-225-8 engine as standard.  This airplane is current on the FAA register.  B&W, about 100K, Added 12/24/05.

Instrument Panel view of 1958 Beech J35 Bonanza, N8309D.  This "J" model has a Narco VTR-2 Omnigator Mark II on the left side.  Throw over control wheel in the normal pilot position.  There is a Lear ADF-12 hidden behind the control wheel.  Airplane is a 1958 model, serial number D-5428 and is current on the FAA register.  B&W, about 76K, Added 01/01/02.

Inflight view of 1959 Beech K35 Bonanza, N750B.  The J and K models are my favorite Bonanza's. I believe this is serial number D-5726.  B&W, about 36K, Added 01/01/02.

Inflight view of 1960 Beech M35 Bonanza, N9535R.  The K and M Bonanzas were very similar, but one change which occurred on the M model Bonanza was the factory use of high lift Horner wing tips.These tips are concave on the lower side. Beech built 400 M model Baonanzas.  This is serial number D-6162, current on the FAA register as N844R. Beech Bonanzas used 4 different side window types.  The early Bonanazas, through the E model, did not have a 3rd side window.  From the F to the M model the small 3rd window, as with this airplane, was used.  The N and P model Bonanzas used a larger "long look" 3rd window, and the  S and V model Bonanzas used a 3rd window similar to the N and P models, but squared and slightly larger at the rear.  This image is about 102K, added 10/29/06.

Inflight view of 1961 Beech N35 Bonanza, N9899R, serial number D-6632.  While this is a N model, this airplane actually has the paint scheme used by Beech on the 1962 P model Bonanza.  The extended 3rd side window used on the N and P model Bonanzas is shown to good advantage.  Image about 70K, added 10/29/06.

Inflight view of Beech 33 Debonair, N831R.  While the Debonair has a lower Beech model number, it came later is shown in this order for that reason.  Beech model number is more accurately 35-33.  The Debonair was introduced in 1960 as a lower cost version of the Bonanza.  Some Bonanza features, such opening rear windows were deleted, engine power was reduced, the interior was more spartan, and outside paint was limited.  This is serial number CD-3, built in 1959, still current on the FAA register.  B&W, about 121K, Added 12/24/05.

Inflight view of Beech A33 Debonair, N355Z.  This is a 1961 model A33.  Here is a second view of the other side of N355Z. This Debonair has the optional small 3rd side window first available on the F35 Bonanza, and used through the M35 Bonanza.  This is serial number CD-387, built in 1960 and current on the FAA register.  B&W, about 82K, and 106K, added 06/28/02, updated 12/28/07.

Inflight view of Beech B33 Debonair, N829R.  Here is a second view from the other side of N829R. This is a 1962 model B33 and it featured a new revised instrument panel.  Earlier versions of the Debonair had the same instrument panel as the early Bonanzas. See the J35 instrument panel above. This airplane has a Motorola ADF-T-12B on top, with the middle being a King KX-130 Comm/Nav with glideslope, plus a lower KY-90 Comm. The King radios are tube type, the ADF is transistorized. At this time the Debonair is changing with amenities closer to that of the Bonanza.  The B33, Beech model 35-B33, was built from late 1961 to 1964.  B&W, about 41K, 106K and 131K respectively. Added 12/06/06, updated 12/29/07.

Inflight view of Beech C33 Debonair, N8676Q.  This is a 1965 model C33.  This Debonair has the first type larger 3rd side window, the same as used on the N & P model Bonanza's.  B&W, about 54K, Added 09/04/06.

Ground view of Beech YT-34 Mentor, USAF serial number 50-735, Beech serial number G-4, the first of three service test YT-34 Mentors. To the left of the propeller spinner, you can see the tail of one of the other contenders for the Air Force trainer, the Fairchild T-31. B&W, about 123K, Added 07/20/08.

Inflight view of Beech model 45 - T-34A Mentor, USAF serial number 52-7626, Beech serial number G-7, the first production T-34A Mentor. View from slightly below and from the rear. B&W, about 57K, Added 04/10/08.

Second inflight view of Beech model 45 - T-34A Mentor, USAF serial number 52-7626, Beech serial number G-7, the first production T-34A Mentor. View from about 1/2 front at the same height. B&W, about 86K, Added 05/31/08.

Inflight view of Flying Upside down T-34A Mentor, USAF serial number 53-3309, Beech serial number G-70. B&W, about 99K, Added 04/10/08.

Inflight view of Beech model 45, also known as the T-34B Mentor, US Navy bureau number 140667, Beech serial number BG-1. Differences between the A and B model are the missing filet below the rudder on the B model, and ARC omni antenna between the back of the canopy and the vertical stabilizer. Although originally sold mostly to the US and foreign military in the mid 1950's, many military Mentor aircraft are now on the civil register. Much later Beech would change to a turbine engine and change the designation to T-34C Mentor.  B&W, about 96K, Added 12/24/05.

Inflight view of the Beech model 73 Jet Mentor, on the CAA register as N134B. Although designed to be a military trainer, the prototype was built as a private venture. Only one Jet Mentor was built, it used a Continental J-69-T9 920 pound thrust jet engine. Much of the airframe of the Jet Mentor directly from the T-34 mentor. B&W, about 92K, Added 05/31/08.

Shown here in flight is the  Beech model 50 prototype registered N3992N. This is Beech serial number H-1, first flown November 15, 1949.  In this photograph the pilot is Steve Tuttle, and the individual in the right seat is engineer Ralph M. Harmon.  B&W, about 72K, added 07/04/06.

Nice Inflight view of U.S. Army Beech L23D Twin Bonanza, serial number 56-3698. Photo taken at the beginning of a 15,500 mile flight to Asia. B&W, about 122K, Added 07/20/08.

Very nice Inflight view of Beech G50 Twin Bonanza, N690T.  This is a 1959 model, serial number GH-101, and it is still current on the US register.  This image shows the original configuration with the cabin entrance door above the wing.  Entry was by climbing up onto the wing as is common with most light low wing general aviation aircraft.  The Twin Bonanza is lovingly referred to as the "T-Bone."  B&W, about 141K, Added 02/23/06.

Inflight view of Beech D50E Twin Bonanza, N9950R.  This is a 1960 D50E model.  Note that Beech made a significant change with the D50E and J50 model Twin Bonanza's, in that entry is now via airstair door behind the wing.  B&W, about 52K, added 03/30/02, updated 04/12/06.

Very nice Inflight view of Beech 65 Queen Air, N671B.  Believe this is a 1960 or 1961 model.  B&W, about 101K, Added 11/28/04.

Inflight view of Beech 95 Travel Air, N343B.  This is serial number TD-2 built in 1957. The Travelair has 2 180HP Lycoming engines. B&W, about 57K, Added 03/30/02.

Inflight view of of Bell 47G, N103B.  N103B started out as a 47B s/n 23 at the Bell Aircraft plant in Niagara Falls, NY. It was later upgraded to a prototype 47D, 47D-1 and then to a 47G at Bell’s Ft. Worth plant in 1953-4. It later became a 47G-2 and G-3 prototype, a rigid rotor demonstrator and on and on. This photo was taken at the Hurst plant in Ft. Worth. The Bell negative number is 203186. My thanks to Harry Gilliand, a Bell Helicopter Textron production test pilot for 22 years, for providing information about this helicopter.  B&W, about 208K, Added 11/24/06.

Cockpit view of Bell 47G-2A, believed to be N8452E.  At the time the 47G-2A was built helicopters rarely had any navigation radio capability. This helicopter is no exception. There is a Narco Mark 5 radio which has 90 transmitter frequencies, and 190 receiver frequencies. Althought the radio could tune the navigation frequencies, it didn't have an omni head. B&W, about 175K, Added 10/01/07.

Inflight view of Bell 47G-3B, N73218.  This helicopter is serial number 2750, a 1962 model. It is currently active on the FAA register. B&W, about 96K, Added 09/17/08.

Ground view of Bell 47G-4A, N1186W.  This helicopter is serial number 7501.  This helicopter was later registered in Ecquador as HC-ASQ, then N3236G, and is currently registered in the U.K. as G-BLGR.  B&W, about 283K, Added 09/04/06.

Ground view of Bell 47H, E27579.  This helicopter is serial number 1350, manufactured in 1955. The "E" registration was used by Bell for helicopters intended for export. Bell built only 33 of the 3 place model 47H helicopters, it was quickly replaced by the more capable model 47J. B&W, about 67K, Added 10/01/07.

Inflight view of Bell 47J, N5197B, serial number 1724, first delivered in 1957.  This helicopter is second helicopter configured to send live television signals while airborne back to the studio and named Telecopter.  The first helicopter was a Bell 47G-2, which was used for only a limited time.  Shortly after tests proved the concept viable, National Helicopter Service of Glendale, California, converted the more powerful J model (National Helicopter also configured the G-2 model) for Los Angeles television station KTLA, channel 5.  Today you frequently see airborne live television from helicopter, this image shows the first practical use of airborne live television.  My thanks to Harry Gilliand , a Bell Helicopter Textron production test pilot for 22 years, for corrections to the model, serial number and delivery date.  B&W, about 62K, added 09/04/06, updated 11/03/06.

Inflight view of Bellanca Cruisair, NC74380.   This is a 1947 model 14-13-2, serial number 1493, current on the FAA register.  B&W, about 100K, Added 11/23/07.

Inflight view of Bellanca Cruisair, NC74441.   This is a 1947 model 14-13-2, serial number 1554, current on the FAA register.  B&W, about 33K, Added 01/01/02.

Very nice ground view of the Prototype Cessna T-50. This view shows the airplane after changes were made to bring it to production standard. This airplane is Cessna construction number 1000, NC20784. B&W, about 93K, Added 06/29/07.

Inflight view of  Cessna T-50 Bobcat, 42-58125, Cessna c/n 3616. Actually this is the military version of the Cessna T-50, known as the C-78, later redesignated as the UC-78.  A large number of these wartime Cessna UC-78's found there way into civilian hands after WWII.  Most famous of the civilian Cessna T-50's was Sky King's "Song Bird."  If anyone knows where I can purchase an 8x10 print of Sky King's T-50 please contact me at  westin@tdstelme.net.  B&W, about 59K, Added 01/01/02. Rescanned to higher resolution 06/29/07.

Ground view of  Cessna T-50 Bobcat, NC59520.  This was one of many used as feeder liners after WWII.  You may also see the Cessna T-50 referred to as the "Bamboo Bomber."  Most of its contruction was spruce, not bamboo.  B&W, about 43K, Added 01/01/02.

Ground view of  Cessna 120, NC41686.  This was Cessna's post WWII trainer.  The 120 did not have the flaps, electrical or extra rear window of the similar model 140.  Some model 120's were modified to have these features later in life.  B&W, about 77K, Added 01/01/02.

Ground view of  Cessna 120, N3750V.  From this side view you readily see the missing rear window compared to the Cessna 140.  B&W, about 72K, Added 03/30/02.

Ground view of  Cessna 140, NC41684.  This was Cessna's other post WWII trainer.  The 140 was a luxury version of the 120, with flaps, electrical and an extra rear window.  This particular image was a Cessna publicity shot for an ad.  B&W, about 45K, Added 01/01/02.

Inflight view of  Cessna 140, NC77260. Nice inflight view of the Cessna 140.  B&W, about 68K, Added 06/21/08.

Inflight view of  Cessna 140A, N5320C.  This is the later "A" model 140 with single strut, the wing being very similar in design to the Cessna model 170A.  B&W, about 38K, Added 01/01/02.

Inflight view of  Cessna 150A, N34268.  This is the later 1961 "A" model 150 which differed from the first model 150 in having a larger, more square rear window.  B&W, about 59K, Added 04/12/06.

Inflight view of  Cessna 150B, N7086X.  After almost 10 years of not building a 2 place trainer, Cessna started the model 150 production in 1959.  This image is actually a 1962 model "B" 150.  You will note the rear window is squared and the navigation lights in the wingtip fairs into the tip fairing.  B&W, about 39K, Added 01/01/02.

Inflight view of  Cessna 150D, N5420E. With the 1964 model year Cessna introduced a major change to the 150 series airplanes. The rear fuselage was cut down and a rear window added. This was called "Omni Vision" by Cessna. The 1964 year is the only model 150 with Omni Vision and a straight vertical stabilizer. This is Cessna construction number 644, it is still active on the FAA register. B&W, about 106K, Added 09/17/08.

Water view of  Cessna 170A, N41693.  This airplane is equipped with floats and is shown on the water.  The "A" model introduced the all metal wing with small flaps.  B&W, about 94K, Added 01/07/02.

Inflight view of  Cessna 170B, N41698.  The "B" model 170 introduced the large "Para Lift" flaps found on all later Cessna single piston engine airplanes.  B&W, about 31K, Added 01/01/02.

Cessna 170 Instrument Panel view. This instrument panel view shows the "piano key" type switches used shortly after WWII. Radio is a Lear LTRA-5, the elevator trim wheel is on the floor between the seats along with the flap handle. NOTE the lady has her hand on a venier propeller control. Cessna 170's were delivered from the factory with fixed pitch propellers, so this airplane apparently has a controllable or constant speed propeller installed. The throttle is standard push pull above the propeller control, obscured by the co-pilot control wheel. B&W, about 144K, Added 06/24/09.

Very nice inflight view of  Cessna 170B, N3420D.  This "B" model 170 is construction number 26963, built in late 1955, it was painted by Cessna with the 1956 Cessna 170B paint scheme and used by Cessna for marketing the 1956 model 170B. Not easily seen is the more squared rear window. B&W, about 65K, Added 01/06/07.

Inflight view of an early  Cessna 172, N1957C. I believe this is the 1957 model year 172 (note the registration number), the first prodcution year for the 172.  This is the basic 172 model without wheel pants or complete exterior paint.  B&W, about 171K, Added 12/24/05.

Inflight view of  Cessna 172, N8516B. This is the 1959 model year 172, the last with the square tail.  Airplane shown has wheel pants, which normally means it is the Skyhawk version of the model 172.  However without complete overall paint, this is still the 172 and not the Skyhawk.  This airplane is serial number 36216.  B&W, about 38K, Added 01/01/02.

Inflight view of  Cessna 172B Skyhawk, N34270. This is the 1961 model year 172B, showing the swept tail first introduced on the 1960 model.  Airplane shown is serial number 172630. A Skyhawk model of the model 172 which can be identified externally by overall paint and wheel pants.  This airplane is currently on the US registry.  Beginning in 1963 Cessna introduced the "Omni Vision" fuselage on the 172.  B&W, about 63K, Added 01/1/02.

Inflight view of  Cessna 172G Skyhawk, N5767R. Built in 1965, it is serial number 17253436, but is considered the 1966 model year. This version of the 172 had all the major changes including "omni vision" and swept tail which Cessna has continued with ever since. The 172G still uses the Continental O-300 engine of 145 HP, while later airplanes would use Lycoming engines. This airplane is currently on the US registry. B&W, about 65K, Added 06/21/09.

Inflight view of  Cessna 175, N34260.   This is the 1960 model year 175.  This image shows a 175 painted in the standard paint scheme. This airplane is serial number 619, originally built in 1959 with a straight vertical stabilizer, it was the prototype swept tail 175. My thanks to Richard Swartz who provided the photograph, and detailed information about this airplane which he now owns.  B&W, about 101K, Added 07/31/07.

Inflight view of  Cessna 175, N34265.   This is the 1961 model year 175.  This airplane is the deluxe version named Skylark.  Engine is a Continental geared GO-300 producing 175 HP.  B&W, about 39K, Added 01/07/02.

Inflight view of  Cessna 180, N5387D.  This is a 1959 model 180.  B&W, about 58K, Added 01/01/02.

Ground view of  Cessna 180, N5387D.  This is the same 1959 model 180 airplane as above showing a ground view.  B&W, about 91K, Added 10/05/05.

Inflight view of  Cessna 182 Skylane, registration not visible.  This is a 1958 model year Skylane.  B&W, about 43K, Added 01/01/02.

Inflight view of Cessna 182B Skylane, N4054D.  This is a 1959 model year Skylane, the last year with the straight vertical stabilizer. This airplane is Cessna serial number 34754, current on the US register. B&W, about 79K, Added 11/02/05.

Inflight view of Cessna 182D Skylane, N2323G.  This is a 1960 model year Skylane, the first with the swept vertical stabilizer.  This year a third window was added for increased visibility.  This airplane is Cessna serial number 51623, and it is current on the US register.  B&W, about 67K, Added 11/02/05.

Inflight view of Cessna 182H Skylane, N2306X.  This airplane was built in 1965, serial number 18256206, one of 840 built by Cessna in 1965. This version of the Skylane has all the major changes Cessna would make to the 182, swept tail, "omni vision." This airplane is current on the U.S. register. B&W, about 86K, Added 06/21/09.

Inflight view of  Cessna 185 Skywagon, N34272.  This is a 1961 model year Skywagon.  Note the model 185 evolved from the model 180.  Note the larger dorsal fin, and extra window on each compared to the model 180.   B&W, about 75K, Added 10/05/05.

Inflight view of  Cessna 195, N30758.   Back of the photo I scanned this from says this is a 1953 A195.  The A195 was powered by a Jacobs R-755-9.  Since Cessna's contract with Jacob's was completed, the engine had to be furnished by the customer!  B&W, about 48K, Added 01/07/02.

Inflight view of 1965 Cessna P206, N2501X, serial number P206-0001. Cessna developed the models 205 and 206 as utility airplanes, with the 206 called the Super Skywagon. Later took the 206 and made it into the P206 which has a passenger interior, lacks the double cargo door, instead has a third left side passenger door. So changed into the P206 it is named the Super Skyland, and accomodates 6 passengers. Continental 285 HP engine. This is the 1965 model. B&W, about 86K, Added 06/21/09.

Inflight view of 1960  Cessna 210, N1296.   Cessna began work on the model 210 by modifying 2 Cessna 182's with retractable landing gear in 1958.  I have seen photos of N1296 with 3 different vertical stabilizers.  These first prototypes had the straight tails of the 182's of the time.  Later a swept tail was added, but different than that shown.  The photo here reflects the first prodcution year, 1960, model 210.  B&W, about 54K, Added 12/24/05.

Inflight view of a 1961 Cessna 210A, N1296.   As you may notice this is the same registration number as the 1960 model 210 above, as well as the first prototypes with 182 type tails.  I suspect, but don't know, that Cessna retained N1296 for development work.  The 1961 model has an additional side window on each side.  About 191K, B&W, added 11/04/06.

Inflight view of 1965  Cessna 210E, N2311F. The model 210 now has "Omni Vision" window configuration, and is now called "Centurion" by Cessna. Also the original 260HP engine is now replaced by a 285HP Continental engine. B&W, about 63K, Added 12/24/05.

Inflight view of Cessna 305, better known as the L-19 Bird Dog, Army serial number 56-2647 is more accurately a L-19E, and after the 1962 Department of Defense standardized aircarft nomenclature between the services, it became the O-1E Bird Dog. Equiped with a 213 HP Continental O-470-11 engine and fixed pitch propeller. The O-1E was used widely by the Air Force and Army in Vietnam. B&W, about 115K, Added 12/24/05.

Very nice Inflight view of 1954 Cessna 310, N37879 (per the wing), but checking the vertical stabilizer with a magnifying glass on the photograph indicates the registration may be N37978. N37879 was the second prototype Cessna 310. This photograph shows the airplane with the initial 1954 production paint scheme. B&W, about 67K, added 05/17/02.

Here is a ground view of 1954 Cessna 310, N37879 the second prototype Cessna 310.  This photograph shows the airplane with the initial 1954 production paint scheme.  My thanks to Don Slape for scanning the photograph.  B&W, about 145K, added 3/05/05.

Beautiful inflight view of  1958 Cessna 310B, N5348A.  This particular 1958 model year 310B became famous on the television show Sky King, where it was named the "Song Bird II."  B&W, about 92K, Added 01/01/02. Rescanned to higher resolution 06/29/07.

Very fine inflight view of the  1960 Cessna 310D, N34262.  This is the first year the model 310 has a swept back vertical stabilizer.  Note the top of the engine nacelles.  Beginning with the 310C, the top of the nacelles extend all the way to the trailing edge of the wing, which resulted in a quieter cabin.  Although never used in the television series that I am aware of, Sky King would have a 310D, N6917T, as the "Song Bird III."  B&W, about 75K, Added 12/24/05.

Inflight view of 1965 Cessna 411, N7301U, serial number 411-0001. The 411 was the first of the Cessna 400 series twins. Major differences included a larger fuselage with a 2 piece air stair door, with 6 to 8 seats depending on the interior selected by the customer. Gross weight 6,500 pounds, Continental 340 HP geared engines. B&W, about 89K, added 06/21/09.

Ground view of Ercoupe Model 415C, NC86966.  This airplane is serial number 139, an early post WWII production airplane built in late November 1945.  The Ercoupe would later be sold as the Forney Aircoupe.  Almost all Ercoupes were manufactured as a two control airplane.  Moving the control wheel fore and aft moved the elevator.  Turning the control wheel left and right simultaneously operated the mechanically linked ailerons and rudders.  A kit was made available in the late 1940's to remove the interlink and add rudder pedals.  Ercoupe rudders move out 20 degrees, but only 3 degrees in, so there limited area is of marginal effectiveness at normal landing speed, so a "crab" landing was still the norm.  Most Ercoupe owners decided to retain the normal two control operation.  My thanks to William Bayne, director of the Texas Ercoupe Museum for additional information on the Ercoupes images on this page.  B&W, about 84K, Added 03/30/02.

Ercoupe Instrument Panel view 1. Note there are only 3 flight insturments, a compass at the top middle, the airspeed indicator immediately to the left of the compass, and a non-sentive altimeter immediately to the right of the compass. Four engine instruments, a tachometer, oil pressure and oil temperature, plus an ammeter. My thanks to William Bayne, director of the Texas Ercoupe Museum for this instrument panel view.  B&W, about 148K, Added 02/18/07.

Ercoupe Instrument Panel view 2. This instrument panel is very similar to the view 1 above. Differences are this airplane is equipped with a radio which replaces the left side glove compartment box. This airplane has an unusual airspeed indicator which wraps around. Take a look at book instrument panel views and you can see the Ercoupe did NOT have any rudder peddals. My thanks to William Bayne, director of the Texas Ercoupe Museum for this instrument panel view.  B&W, about 132K, Added 02/18/07.

Ground view of Ercoupe Model 415C, NC15692.  This particular example has a Beech controllable pitch propeller.  The Beech propeller was controled either by an electric motor, or in this case by a hand crank above the windshield.  This is serial number 1, presently owned by the Smithsonian and under restoration for future display.  B&W, about 76K, Added 04/12/06.

Very nice inflight view of Ercoupe Model 415C, NC93315.  This is a 1946 model Ercoupe, serial number 638.  This airplane is a two control airplane, that is elevator and aileron, there are no rudder pedals.  B&W, about 84K, Added 11/28/04.

Ground view of  Globe Swift, NC3322K. Caption is now updated from information from Mr. Cotton Conder e-mail FiveNoTrmp@aol.com, a former Globe employee, via Denis Arbeau, e-mail arbeau@napanet.net, of the Globe Temco Swift Homepage. "This view was taken taken in 1947 in the high bay area of the Temco Grand Prairie, Texas Plant. This building was built for North American Aviation so they could build T-6 and P-51 aircraft during WWII.  I believe this shot was taken shortly after Temco took over Globe and we had delivered some of the of the airplanes from the Globe 'pea patch'  to Temco.  I believe the planes in the background were in line waiting for the 'Temco Inspection and Renewal Plan.'  You can see the crates and boxes stored just to the right of NC3322K which contained the parts and assemblies furnished by Globe earlier for assembling the standard model Swift per the Globe contract." B&W, about 57K, Added 1/1/02, caption updated 03/30/02.

Ground view of  Globe Swift, N3222K.  B&W, about 33K, Added 03/30/02.

Ground view of Johnson Rocket 185, N32R.  Only 18 or 19 Johnson Rockets were built at Fort Worth, Texas.  N32R is serial number 6, being restored by Richard Ward.  Check here for  information about the Johnson Rocket  and here is a  List of owners. B&W, about 43K, Added 01/01/02.

Ground view of 1964 Lake LA-4 Amphibian. This is C/N 295, built in 1964. Originally it carried registration N1133L. It was exported to Southern Ireland as EI-ANR. It was as EI-ANR when this photograph was taken at Biggin Hill airport, which is located about 14 miles south southeast of London, United Kingdom. Later this airplane was sold in England as G-BOLL. The Lake LA-4 began as the Colonial Skimmer, an early 3 place version. Later developed into the LA-4 which is 4 place, with a 180 HP Lycoming engine. Photo taken by Richard Eling, via Randall Betki. B&W, about 144K, Added 06/10/09.

Ground side view of Luscombe 8E, N1980K.  In this image the Luscombe has standard wheel landing gear.  Peter M. Bowers Collection.  B&W, about 41K, Added 03/30/02.

Inflight view of Luscombe 8E as a Seaplane, N1980K.  In this beautiful image the Luscombe is equipped with float landing gear installed.  This view shows Peter M. Bowers flying the Luscombe over a bridge.  Peter M. Bowers Collection.  B&W, about 81K, Added 03/30/02.

Ground side view of Meyers 200A, N459C.  Airplane has a 260HP Continental IO-0470-D engine.  Later Aero Commander would purchase the rights to the Meyers 200 airplane and market it as the Aero Commander 200.  See above for an inflight view of an Aero Commander 200.  B&W, about 67K, Added 03/30/02.

Inflight view of Mooney Mark 18 Mite, N4157.  This was Mooney's airplane.  Note this is a single place airplane!  Powered by either a Lycoming or Continental 65 HP engine.  B&W, about 49K, Added 01/07/02.

Inflight view of Mooney Mark 20, N4199.  This was Mooney's entry into the 4 place retractable gear airplane field.  To keep cost down the landing gear retracted manually as did the flaps, with a large handle in the cockpit.  Wings were built of wood, fuselage of metal.  B&W, about 59K, Added 01/01/02.

Inflight view of Mooney Mark 20A, N1052B.  This is a 1958 model, serial number 1279, and is current on the US register.  B&W, about 116K, Added 10/05/05.

Inflight view of Mooney Mark 21, N3457X.  This is a 1967 model.  B&W, about 96K, Added 11/18/05.

Being an aviation enthusiast since a young boy in the 1950's, I remember Mooney using the Mark 22 designation twice.  The first time Mooney used the Mark 22 designation was for a twin engine airplane based on the Mark 20.     I've found very little information available about the Mooney Mark 22 twin.  What I present here are two images of the Mooney Mark 22 Twin.  Both are views from the ground.  Mooney Mark 22 Twin head on view, and Mooney Mark 22 Twin side view.  The registration is N5299B.  These images are from about 1958.  Power was two Lycoming O-320 150 HP engines.  A 1959 aircraft book I have indicates "Mooney continues flight testing the twin engine Mark 22."  Both images are B&W, head on view is about 213K, side view is about 216K.  As far as I know Mooney did not get the airplane certified.  Not the best quality images, but all I have of the Mooney Mark 22 Twin. Added 12/24/05.

Mooney used the Mark 22 designation a second time when they built and certified the Mark 22 Mustang airplane.  This inflight view show a Mooney Mark 22 Mustang, Registered as N9122L, the door says "Experimental."  I believe this was the first prototype.  Mooney built about 30 of the Mark 22 Mustang, beginning in 1964.  The airplane uses a 310HP engine, and was an early general aviation single engine pressurized airplane.  B&W, about 145, Added 12/24/05.

Inflight view of  North American Navion, NC91103.  North American designed the Navion at Inglewood, California.  Later North American sold the rights to the Navion to Ryan.  Shown is a 1946 North American built Navion, serial number NAV-4-5.  B&W, about 65K, Added 01/01/02.

Inflight view of Ryan Navion, N4566K.  Ryan purchased the rights to Navion from North American Aviation in the late 1940's.  This Navion is serial number NAV-4-1566, a 1948 model.  B&W, about 54K, Added 03/30/02.

Another Inflight view of Ryan Navion, N4566K.  This photo may have been taken during the same flight as the view above. In this view you can see San Diego and the bay, with Lindberg Field below. This airplane is currently on the US register.  B&W, about 54K, Added 10/05/05.

Inflight view of Piper J-3 Cub, NC42047.  The Piper J-3 Cub is probably the most recognized name for an American general aviation airplane.  Piper built more than 20,000 J-3's.  Shown is a 1942 model, serial number 10332.  B&W, about 106K, added 01/01/02, rescanned 09/09/07 to higher resolution.

Piper J-3 Cub Instrument Panel. Piper J-3 Cub's came from the factory with minimum instrumentation. This panel has, left to right, tachometer, airspeed, magnetic compass, non sensitive altimeter, and combination oil pressure oil temperature guage. B&W, about 118K, Added 12/01/08.

Ground view of Piper J-3 Cub, NC87992.  Piper J-3 Cub's came from the factory with either a Continental, Franklin or Lycoming engine.  This example is powered by a Continental A-65 engine.  B&W, about 49K, Added 01/07/02.

Inflight view of Piper J-4A Cub Coupe, NC25892.  The Piper J-4A Cub Coupe an improved version of the J-3 with side by side seating (J-3's used tandem seating).  The Piper J-4 had an open cowling, the J-4A cowling is closed as shown. Airplane shown is a 1939 model, B&W, about 68K, Added 10/14/07.

Piper J-4 Cub Coupe Instrument Panel. Piper J-4 Cub Coupe's have a somewhat more advanced instrument panel than the earlier J-3. This panel has, left to right top, airspeed, turn and bank, and rate of climb, left to right bottom, tachometer, non sensitive altimeter, and combination oil pressure oil temperature guage. On the right side of the instrument panel is a RCA two way radio. B&W, about 132K, Added 12/01/08.

Inflight view of Piper J-4A Cub Coupe, NC30440.  The Piper J-4 Cub Coupe an improved version of the J-3 with side by side seating (J-3's used tandem seating).  Piper built 1,251 J-4's between 1939-1942.  Airplane shown is a 1940 model, serial number 4-1227.  B&W, about 57K, Added 01/07/02.

Inflight view of Piper J-5A Cub Cruiser, NC40796.  The Piper J-5 Cub Cruiser is a 3 seat version of the J-4.  Piper built 1,507 J-5's between 1940-1946.  B&W, about 60K, Added 01/07/02.

Ground view Piper PA-11 Cub Special, NC4629M.  This was Piper's first post WW II airplane that was put in production (there were some prototypes which did not enter production).   Pipe built 1,541 PA-11's between 1947-1949.  B&W, about 65K, Added 01/07/02.

Inflight view Piper PA-12 Super Cruiser, NC87803.  This was the 4th PA-12 built, cn 12-4, built in 1946. Later in 1946, for a short period, Piper equipped this particular airplane with a 100 HP Frankling engine. Early PA-12 had the 100 HP Lycoming O-235, later PA-12's have the 108 HP Lycoming O-235C1. This PA-12 remains current on the FAA register.  B&W, about 100K, Added 05/16/07.

Ground view Piper PA-12 Super Cruiser, NC3899M.  This was an updated J-5C, 3 place.   Piper built 3,760 PA-12's between 1946-1948.  Airplane shown is a 1947 model, serial number 12-2804.  B&W, about 81K, Added 01/07/02.

Water view Piper PA-12S Super Cruiser, NC2900M.  Note the ventral fin under the vertical stabilizer for additional directional stability. These are very common for light aircraft equipped with floats. The S in the designation indicates this is a seaplane version of the PA-12. While the landplane PA-12 has a Lycoming O-235 of 108HP, the PA-12S seaplane has a Lycoming O-290 of 135HP.  B&W, about 161K, Added 02/18/07.

Ground view Piper PA-14 Family Cruiser, NC5193H.  This was Piper's first 4 place airplane.   Piper built 238 PA-14's between 1948-1949.  B&W, about 62K, Added 01/07/02.

Inflight view of Piper PA-15 Vagabond, NC4123H.  The Piper PA-15 was the airplane which saved Piper from bankruptcy after the disasterous 1947 light plane recession.  This was the first Piper "Short Wing airplane."  Piper built 387 Vagabonds.  Airplane shown is a 1948 model, serial number 15-6.  B&W, about 74K, Added 01/01/02.

Ground view Piper PA-16 Clipper, N5200H.  Shown is construction number 16-2, the first production PA-16.  This was an updated PA-15, 4 place.  Piper built 736 PA-16's between 1949-1950.  B&W, about 55K, Added 01/07/02.

Inflight view of 1950 Piper PA-18-105 Super Cub, N5474H, serial number 18-66, a 1950 model. I believe Piper delivered this as a PA-18-105 with a 105HP Lycoming O-235 engine. This airplane is current on the FAA register which indicates is now has a Lycoming O-320 engine, which is 150 to 160HP.  B&W, about 135K, Added 12/16/07.

Inflight view of 1960 Piper PA-18-150 Super Cub, N3898Z, serial number 18-7343.  Airplane is current on the FAA register.  Piper built a total of 10,222 PA-18 Super Cubs. B&W, about 66K, Added 01/01/02.

Ground view Piper PA-20 Pacer, N7100K.  This is sereial number 20-1, actually the second PA-20 built. Piper built a prototype with the serial number 20-01. This airplane was built in 1949, a place airplane with a Lycoming 115HP engine. This airplane is still current on the FAA register although the FAA says it now has a Lycoming O-320 engine. B&W, about 120K, Added 01/12/08.

Here are various different views of the PA-20, left rear side door for the rear passengers, in this case the rear seat is moved out of the way and cargo is being loaded. right front seat has a stretcher installed, a rather unusual stretcher in design. A view of an early PA-20 intrument panel. Note the very basic instrumentation. Radio on left side, in front of the pilot, is a General Electric GE AS-1B radio. This radio has two tunable receiver bands, one in the 200 to 400 KHz range, the other in the 550 to 1600 KHz range, the standard broadcast band. The standard aircraft listening frequency for a control tower was 278 KHz. The transmitter has a single frequency, originally 3105 Khz, later the FCC changed this to 3023.5 KHz. The airplane transmitted to the tower, en route radio on 3105 or later 3023.5 KHz. Quite a difference from today's 760 channel crystal controlled synthesized VHF communications radios. There was no radio navigation unless the optional manual loop was installed. B&W, about 125K, B&W, about 86K, and B&W, about 96K respectively. Added 01/12/08.

Ground view Piper PA-20 Pacer, N7332K.  This is an updated PA-16 Clipper with more power.  Piper built 1,120 PA-20's between 1950-1954.  Airplane shown is a 1950 model, serial number 20-242.  B&W, about 48K, Added 01/07/02.

Inflight view of Piper PA-22 Tri-Pacer, N6844B.  The PA-22 Tri-Pacer was an updated PA-20 with tri-cycle landing gear.  The same PA-22 model designation also brought the Caribbean, a lower cost Tri-Pacer, and the Colt which was a two place airplane designed for training.  This was the last of the Piper "Short Wing" fabric covered airplanes, Piper built 9,490 of the PA-22 series between 1951 and 1960.  The Tri-Pacer was replaced by the all metal PA-28 Cherokee line.  B&W, about 50K, Added 01/01/02.

Inflight view of Piper PA-22-160 Tri Pacer, N2868Z.  This the 1960 model Tri Pacer with a 160HP Lycoming O-320 engine. B&W, about 80K, Added 10/28/07.

Piper Tri Pacer Instrument Panel view. This is the instrument panel of N2868Z, an inflight view of which is immediately above. This is the second type instrument panel for the Piper Tri Pacer. The first instrument panel had radios on each outboard side of the instrument panel, with flight instruments arranged inbetween. In 1959 Piper redesigned the instrument panel with center mounted radios and flight instruments in front of the pilot. This airplane is equipped with the Narco VHT-3 Superhomer. While the VHT-3 Superhomer has space for 12 transmitters crystals, the radio in this airplane has 9 crystals installed. The Narco VHT-3 Superhomer was probably the most popular radio of the period. Also installed in this airplane is a Narco LFR-3 low frequency radio. B&W, about 106K, Added 10/28/07.

Inflight view of Piper PA-22-108 Colt, N5088Z.  The PA-22-108 Colt has the 108 HP Lycoming O-235 engine, and is a two place version of the 4 place Tri-Pacer intended for the the training role. This airplane is serial number 22-8722, a 1961 model,  and is current on the FAA register. B&W, about 74K, Added 05/16/07.

Very nice Inflight view of Piper PA-23 Apache, N1000P, serial number 23-2, the pre production airplane, a 1954 model. The PA-23 Apache was, in my opinion, a milestone airplane for Piper. It is the airplane which took Piper from tube and fabric puddle jumpers to the world of all metal business airplanes. The original design came to Piper when the assests of Stinson were purchased in late 1948.  Among those assests were the drawings of a twin engine airplane, initially named the Twin Stinson, which evolved into the Apache.  The Apache was the first Piper airplane to carry the now famous American Indian names.  B&W, about 45K, Added 12/01/02.

View of the original style Piper PA-23 Apache Instrument Panel,  The Piper Apache's built from 1954 to 1959 used this type instrument panel with the radios on each side and the flight and engine instruments in the middle. Apache's built beginning in 1960 and later have a center mounted radio stack with flight instruments to the left in front of the pilot, and engine instruments to the right side. Photo courtesy of Ron Dupas who tells me the photo was taken by himself at Edmonton, Alberta, Canada in the late 1950's or early 1960's. Ron maintains a very nice homepage with many images, please take a look at 1000AircraftPhotos.com for many other aircraft images.  B&W, about 82K, Added 07/25/04.

Inflight view of Piper PA-23 Apache "C", N2000P, serial number 23-229, a 1956 model.  The Apache later evolved into the Piper Aztec.  B&W, about 115K, Added 01/01/02.

Piper PA-23 Apache Instrument Panel. This is serial number 23-596, 1956 Piper Apache, registered N2022P at the time, now registered in the UK as G-ATKA. This may be the most sophisticated Apache panel I've seen. Note on the left side are dual ARC ADF-21 ADF's, with an ARC 210 communications radio above the ADF's, and on the right side on top a Narco VC-27 Simplexer with a VOR, and right bottom a Sunair HF. This airplane also has the optional two vacumm pumps, with a valve on the instrument panel to check each vacuum pump. B&W, about 173K, Added 12/01/08.

Inflight view of Piper PA-23 Apache "F", N3454, serial number 23-1426, a 1959 model.  B&W, about 55K, Added 02/18/06.

Ground view of Piper PA-24 Comanche, N2024P, serial number 24-1, built in 1956.  This is the first prototype Comanche,  the first of 4,717 Piper Comanche 180/250's.  Piper built 148 more as the Piper Comanche 400,  for a total of 4,865 Piper Comanches,  all built at Lock Haven,  Pennsylvania.  B&W, about 84K, Added 03/30/02.

Inflight view of Piper PA-24 Comanche, N5000P, serial number 24-3, a 1957 model.  This is the first production Comanche.  The Comanche was available with either the 180 HP or 250 Hp Lycoming engine.  This particular airplane has the 180 HP engine, but is externally identical to the 250 HP engine model.  B&W, about 43K, Added 01/01/02.

Inflight view of Piper PA-24 Comanche, N5100P, serial number 24-105, a 1958 model.  This is the first production 250HP Comanche.  The Comanche was available with either the 180 HP or 250 Hp Lycoming engine.  This particular airplane has the 250 HP engine, but is externally identical to the 180 HP engine model.  This airplane is currently still on the US registery.  B&W, about 124K, Added 10/05/05.

Inflight view of Piper PA-24 260 Comanche, N8383P, serial number 24-3642, a 1964 model.  This airplane is currently still on the US registery.  B&W, about 99K, Added 05/16/07.

Inflight view of a 1959 Piper PA-27 Aztec, N4501P, serial number 27-3.  The Aztec is an upgraded Apache.  The major change is uping the horsepower from the Apache's 160 to the Aztec's 250, plus redesigned horizontal and vertical stabilizers.  Significantly improved performance resulted from the additional horse power.  The first production Aztec's are configured to seat 5, and have a shorter nose than does the next version, the Aztec B.  This photographs shows the Aztec flying with the right propeller feathered as would done if an engine failed.  B&W, about 45K.  Added 02/18/06.

Inflight view of Piper PA-27 Aztec "B", N5000Y, serial number 27-2000, a 1962 model.  Although Piper construction numbers for the Aztec begin with 27, the official FAA designation is PA23-250.  Piper built a total of 4,929 Aztecs (this total includes 118 airplanes with the 27 construction number built as the Piper Apache 235). The PA-27 Aztec is the definitive version of the Apache, which itself originated from the Twin Stinson.  B&W, about 95K, added 01/01/02, rescanned 09/09/07 to higher resolution.

Inflight view of Piper PA-27 Aztec "C", N5430Y, serial number 27-2507, a 1965 model.  The "C" model Aztec introduced "Tiger Shark" nacelles. The propellers were now further ahead of the engine. This gave a quieter cabin. B&W, about 92K. Added 09/09/07.

Piper made a major change in 1960 from tube and fabric to all metal design for single engine airplanes.  This inflight view shows an 1960 PA-28-160 Cherokee 160, N2800W, serial number 28-3.  Fixed gear Piper aircraft built immediately prior to the Cherokee were the PA-22-160 Tripacer, PA-22-108 Caribean, and the PA-18-150 Super Cub.  B&W, about 92K, Added 04/12/06.

Here is an image of the slightly later 1963 PA-28-180 Cherokee 180B, N5447W, serial number PA28-524.  This airplane is still on the US registry.  Externally this Cherokee is identical with the earlier models 1961-1962.  B&W, about 93K, Added 10/05/05.

Instrument panel view 1964 PA-28-180 Cherokee 180B, N7821W, serial number PA28-1830.  Primary VHF radio is a Narco Mark 12 with VOA-4 indicator, a Narco ADF-31, a Narco Mark 8 back up VHF, and a Narco UDI-4 DME.  This airplane is still on the US registry.  B&W, about 122K, Added 10/05/05.

Not long after its introduction Piper updated the Cherokee with more power.  This is an image of the 1965 PA-28-235 Cherokee 235B, N9076W, serial number PA28-10676.  This airplane is still on the US registry.  B&W, about 108K, Added 10/05/05.

Ground view of Republic RC-3 Seabee Amphibian, NX87451.  Republic offered the first RC-3's at $3,995! The price was far too low and Republic was forced to raise the price quickly.  B&W, about 72K, Added 03/30/02.

Ground view of  Republic RC-3 Seabee, NC87479.  A very unique post WWII amphibian built by Republic.  This airplane is serial number 29, still current on the FAA register.  B&W, about 52K, Added 01/01/02.

Two interior views of the Seabee - Republic RC-3 Seabee Instrument panel, and  Republic RC-3 Seabee showing the seating to the rear.  B&W, about 129K and 168K respectively, Added 09/04/06.

Inflight view of  Republic RC-3 Seabee, NC8754B.  This isn't a real high quality image, but it is what I have of a Republic Seabee inflight.  B&W, about 44K, Added 09/04/06.

Another inflight view of  Republic RC-3 Seabee, NC87461. This is serial number 12. Better quality than the view above.  B&W, about 106K, Added 10/06/06.

Several images of  Stinson Airplanes.  This link takes you to my Stinson photo page.  Several Stinson's are available. Added 01/01/02, updated 07/20/08.

Ground view of a Taylorcraft BC-12D, N96386.  This particular airplane has, for an airplane, unusual white side wall tires.  There was some experimenting with white side wall tires during the late 1940's as an aide to seeing the airplane at night by air traffic controllers (tower operators).  White side walls didn't seem to catch on, so apparently it did not provide any big improvement.  B&W, about 47K, Added 01/01/02.

Ground view of a Temco Riley D-16 Twin Navion, N8680H, serial number NAV-4-680.  Airplane is still on the FAA register.  This is a major modification to the North American / Ryan Navion.  The single Continental engine is removed from the nose, and two Lycoming engines added to the wing.  Center section is strengthened, and the vertical tail is enlarged to achieve adequate control for single engine flight.  B&W, about 47K, Added 12/01/02.

   

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