T-34 Wisconsin Wing
Description:
Base:
Waukesha, WI
Website:
T-34 Specs | |
---|---|
Role | Military Trainer |
Manufacturer | Beechcraft |
Introduced | 1953 |
Power | Continental 0-470-13 |
Length | 25 ft |
Height | 9 ft |
Wingspan | 32 ft |
Range | 821 mi |
History
In 1955, the T-34A commenced service as the United States Air Force's initial primary flight trainer, replacing extant North American AT-6 Texan trainers. Following training in the T-34A, USAF pilot trainees would advance to the North American T-28A Trojan for intermediate training. The T-34A Mentor remained the standard USAF primary trainer until the introduction of the Cessna T-37 Tweet jet trainer in the late 1950s, replacing both the T-34A and T-28A. As the U.S. Air Force replaced the last of their T-34As at the beginning of the 1960s, many were turned over to the USAF Auxiliary, the Civil Air Patrol, for use as search aircraft. Our T-34 was assigned to the Civil Air Patrol at Maxwell AFB Nevada Wing in 1964.
Restoration Progress
This aircraft was restored in the early 1990’s but has not flown since then. Since the Wisconsin Wing acquired it in February 2017, our members have been busy evaluating restoration needs and costs in order bring it back flying condition – as it should be! The restoration work began in November.
Education and Honoring Veterans
Our vision for the T-34A mirrors our activities with our PT-26 and SNJ-5, but it now expands our education to include post-WWII aviation history. We want to honor veterans of the Korean and Vietnam era and make sure the aviation history is not forgoten. The T-34A will support flyovers for parades, public holiday and military heritage related events, as well as attend regional events and offer tours.