Click on one of the thumbnails below to access the 6 photos of this aircraft.
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- Status: In storage
- Airworthiness: Future restoration to flying condition
- Type: Transport
- Built: 1941
- Civil Registration: CF-BSU ex-NC32279
- Current Markings: Civilian
- Length: 21 ft 11 in
- Wingspan: 34 ft
- Power: 90 hp
- Engine: 1 x Franklin 4AC-199-E3
- Maximum Speed: 115 mph
- Cruising Speed: 108 mph
- Service Ceiling: 13,000 ft
Aircraft Description
In 1939, the Stinson 105 was introduced to the public at the New York World's Fair. The 105 referred to the theoretical cruising speed. It proved to be a very popular aircraft and noted buyers included Hollywood movie star Jimmy Stewart, Howard Hughes and funny man Edgar Bergen.
The French Government placed a substantial order but only a few were ever to see service. One Stinson 105 saw service over the beaches of Dunkirk. Since the United States was a neutral country, it was not possible for it to trade with a belligerent. To circumvent this, the Stinsons for the French Government were flown to Canada, loaded onto ships in Nova Scotia and delivered to France. One such shipment of 33 aircraft was passing through Canada when France capitulated. Twenty five of the shipment were taken over by the RCAF and used as light communication aircraft.
The Museum's example resembles the 105 in appearance but is a Stinson 10A version that boasts a Franklin engine that provides an increase of 15 hp over the original Continental engine. It was acquired in 2016 from a U.S. owner. It will be restored to the markings of Stinson 105 #3469 while it served with the Royal Canadian Air Force.