In November of 1943, Fleet Aircraft in Ft. Erie, Ontario Canada completed Fairchild PT-26 Cornell number 10871. It was soon assigned to a flight training squadron in Calgary, Canada. On its way to the squadron it stopped in Madison, Wisconsin for rest. Today 10871 is known as N9474H, and is proudly maintained and flown by the CAF Wisconsin Wing.

The PT-26 is a popular part of the Wing’s rides program and participates in many community events. Passengers and the public are amazed to experience the actual aircraft that taught many pilots to fly bombers in the European theater of World War II. Since the aircraft is particularly approachable, even the youngest generation gets a new appreciation for flight and the many brave pilots that have gone before us. The airplane is painted in U.S. Army Air Corps colors to honor the collaboration between the U.S. and Canadian services. The PT-26 is always a big attraction at the fly-ins, Honor Flights, flyovers, and other events supported by the Wing. The aircraft is also an important element of the Wing’s flight program, just as it was in its day, helping pilots transition into more powerful warbirds which further enables the Wing to Educate, Honor, and Inspire.

Today, N9474H is showing its age and has been suffering groundings due to maintenance needs. The radios and intercom, a critical part of the Wing’s ability to safely provide rides, need replacement. And as with any primary trainer, the landing gear and tailwheel need repairs. In coming years, the wooden wings may need reconstruction as well. 

The Wing has set a goal of $10,000 to help offset costs of radios, intercom, and landing gear upgrades. Your contribution will help keep this unique and gentle trainer accessible to the community and inspire a love for aviation, honor our veterans, and educate about a special part of military history.

Thank you for your support in helping to continue to Educate those who experience this aircraft,  Honor those who built, flew and maintained them and Inspire future generations.