The resulting plane was an early example of what we would now call a STOL (Short Take Off and Landing) aircraft, with capabilities of using unprepared landing strips in battlefield conditions. Under certain conditions as little as 165 yards was all the take-off distance required for this sturdy plane. These requirements were met by the use of a powerful 870 horsepower Mercury XX engine, slats on the leading edge of the wing interconnected to the landing flaps, and large diameter landing wheels that would roll over obstacles on the ground.

In Canada, Lysander aircraft were chiefly used for target towing at training schools, limited navigational training, communications duty, and search and rescue operations. During WWII it was most noted for its use to transport operatives into occupied Europe, often returning with escapees including Allied aircrew. The "Lizzie" as named by aircrew, also boasted a Browning 0.303 machine gun housed in each wheel spat. Twelve small bombs could also be carried under sub-wings fitted to the wheel spats.