Existing comment:
Boeing Stearman PT-17:
A Stearman biplane taxiing down the runway was a frequent sight at the College Park Airport from the 1930s through the 1950s. Airport manager George Brinckerhoff utilized various Stearman models along with Fleets, Stinsons, Wacos and Cubs for the Brinckerhoff Flying Service. Many of these planes were also fixtures at the numerous air shows and air derbies that attracted visitors to the Airport by the thousands during this same timeframe.
The Stearman Aircraft Corporation was acquired by the United Aircraft and Transportation Corporation in 1929. In 1934, government antitrust laws forced the corporation to divide into three separate companies: United Aircraft Co., Boeing Airplane Co., and United Air Lines. Boeing took Stearman Aircraft as one of its subsidiaries. That same year, they introduced the Stearman Kaydet. The Kaydet was the only American aircraft during WWII that was completely standardized for both Army (PT-13/17) and Navy (NS/N25) use.
The Boeing Stearman had many names depending on its military affiliation and the engines with which the planes were outfitted. The PT-17, built for the US Army, was originally outfitted with a 220 hp Continental R-670-5 engine. Its rugged construction and responsive controls made it well suited to the task of a primary military trainer. The tandem cockpit design allowed the student to sit in the front cockpit, with the instructor in the back.
After WWII the Stearman saw new life as a crop duster and air show performer. This 2-seater biplane delighted crowds with its use in wing walking performances and other aerobatic routines when fitted with a more powerful engine. The Stearman continued its popularity as a primary trainer for flight instruction at fields like College Park Airport for many years, and is still owe of aviation's most easily recognized aircraft. |