N1643M Stearman Project

AircraftDescription

The Boeing Stearman, formally designated the Stearman Model 75 and later the Boeing PT-17 / Kaydet, is a classic American two-seat, open-cockpit, radial-engine biplane originally designed as a primary military trainer for the U.S. Army and Navy prior to and during World War II. It is widely regarded as one of the most iconic and rugged training aircraft ever built.

Manufactured in large numbers between 1934 and 1945, over 10,000 aircraft were produced. The Stearman trained tens of thousands of Allied pilots and became the backbone of U.S. military primary flight training throughout WWII.

After the war, thousands of surplus Stearmans entered the civilian market, where they became popular as sport aircraft, airshow performers, and agricultural sprayers. Today, restored Stearmans are prized for their classic appearance, mechanical simplicity, and robust flight characteristics.

Design and Construction

The Stearman features a welded steel tube fuselage, wooden wing spars and ribs, and fabric covering, making it both durable and repairable with traditional aircraft construction techniques. The aircraft has a fixed tailwheel landing gear, wide gear stance, and a large vertical tail, contributing to its ground stability and forgiving handling.

Powerplants vary by model, most commonly the Continental R-670 (220 hp) or Lycoming R-680 (225 hp) radial engines, producing the characteristic radial sound and providing ample thrust for basic aerobatics and short-field performance.

The cockpit is arranged in tandem, typically with the student in the front and instructor in the rear, both with full flight controls.

Flying Qualities

The Stearman is known for:

Stable, predictable handling
Excellent control harmony
Strong structural margins
Good slow-speed behavior
Docile stall characteristics

It is fully aerobatic within its limits and is frequently used today for aerobatic training, formation flying, and airshow performances. The aircraft rewards coordinated flight and provides excellent stick-and-rudder feedback, making it a favorite among pilots who appreciate traditional flying qualities.

Typical Specifications (PT-17 Variant)

Crew: 2 (tandem)
Engine: Continental R-670 radial, 220 hp
Wingspan: 32 ft 2 in
Length: 24 ft 0 in
Empty Weight: ~1,930 lb
Max Takeoff Weight: ~2,950 lb
Cruise Speed: ~95–100 mph
Stall Speed: ~52 mph
Range: ~500 miles
Service Ceiling: ~12,000 ft

Summary

The Boeing Stearman is a foundational aircraft in aviation history, representing the transition from early aviation into modern military flight training. It remains admired not only for its historical significance, but for its honest flying characteristics, mechanical durability, and timeless aesthetic. In today’s general aviation world, it stands as both a flying museum piece and a capable, enjoyable aircraft for pilots who value classic design and pure flying.

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