Aircraft History of the Stearman

 

Founded: 1934
Defunct:1945
Industry: aerospace
Headquarters: wichita, KS

Also named “kaydet,” the Stearman Model 75, introduced newly under Boeng after 1934, is a conventional biplane with a long history and is considered a darling by aviation aficionados.

Although it was thought practically antique by its rugged construction, from its fabric-covered wooden wings, and single-leg landig gear, it was practical, and maneuverable—ideal for training novice pilots in the U.S. Army Air Corps and U.S. Navy. It flew with one of the earliest air-cooled radial engine, which were most often than not uncowled and easy to repair. In addition, the cockpit could fit two, usually a student and teacher, and was resiliently sturdy.

After WWII, it remained an ideal trainer, and sold for military and civilian use all over the world—well into the 1990s. Because of their slow and sturdy, low-level flying capacities, Stearmans are extremely useful in agriculture for drop dusting and spraying, still to this day. Because of their nostalgic quality, they’re also popular for airshow performances.