Built as a primary trainer by Fairchild the PT-19 had a respectable 560 feet per minute rate of climb. Cadets learned the initial skills of take-off and landing as well as elementary maneuvers before moving on to more sophisticated Basic, then Advanced training. The wings had two spars and girder ribs all made from spruce and covered with plywood skin. The end ribs and fuselage-connecting ribs were made of chrome molybdenum steel. The fixed tail assemblies were wood, covered with plywood. All control surfaces were fabric covered.
The PT-26 was built by Fleet Aircraft of Canada and was similar to the PT-19B except the PT -26 was fitted with a full-length sliding canopy more suitable for the frigid winter weather of Canadian training bases.
The museum’s aircraft is a PT-19B, serial number T43-5598 (other source says serial number is 43-55985). No one has a clue as to how the aircraft came to the museum. This aircraft is on loan from the USAF.
| Manufacturer: | Fairchild, Aeronca | ||
| Designation: | PT-19 | ||
| Version: | B | ||
| Nickname: | Cornell | ||
| Type: | Trainer (Primary) | ||
| Crew: | Instructor & Student | ||
| Specifications | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Length: | 27′ 8″ | ||
| Height: | 7′ 6″ | ||
| Wingspan: | 35′ 11″ | ||
| Propulsion | |||
| No. of Engines: | 1 | ||
| Powerplant: | Ranger 6-410B3 inverted, in-line six cylinder | ||
| Horsepower (each): | 175 | ||
| Performance | |||
| Range: | 475 miles | ||
| Max Speed: | 121.00 Mph | ||
| Ceiling: | 13,000 Ft | ||
| Armament: | none | ||