Boeing Stearman S2N-5 (PT13D)
The Stearman N2S-5 is an iconic biplane designed in the late 1930s, mainly used as a trainer by the US Navy and air force during the Second World War. It is distinguished by its classic design, with two superimposed wings, a tubular steel structure and a canvas skin.
Key features:
Engine: Equipped with a 220 hp radial engine, it offers good performance while being relatively easy to fly.
Dimensions:
Wingspan of around 10.7 metres, giving it good manoeuvrability.
Role:
Mainly used to train pilots before they move on to more advanced fighter or bomber aircraft.
Beyond its training role, the Stearman N2S-5 was also used in agricultural missions and other civilian roles after the war. Its robust design and ease of maintenance contributed to its longevity in the skies.
In short, the Stearman N2S-5 is not only a symbol of aeronautical history, but also an aircraft appreciated for its charm and efficiency.
Biography of F-AYKD
Construction and beginnings (1943-1944)
Built in 1943 as the PT-13D by Boeing, this aircraft was accepted by the United States Army Air Corps on 27 January 1944 at Boeing’s Wichita, Kansas factory. With serial number 42-17151, it was quickly incorporated into the US Navy inventory under number 61192.
Training and missions (1944-1948)
On the same day, it was assigned to the 13th Elementary Flying Detachment, operating at Dos Palos, California, where it was used for pilot training. On 7 August 1944, it was transferred to the Hawthorne School of Aeronautics unit in South Carolina, under the direction of Beverly ‘Bevo’ Howard, a renowned aerobatic pilot. The aircraft subsequently continued to serve at various training units, including Columbus AFB, Mississippi, and Goodfellow AFB, Texas, where it was used for pilot training until 1948.
Retirement and restoration (1949-1983)
Declared surplus on 1 May 1949, the aircraft was removed from the military inventory and transferred to Jesse K. Curtis in Bryan, Texas. It changed ownership in 1980, when Jack L. Keahey of Columbia, Louisiana, undertook a complete restoration that was completed in 1983. On 6 January 1983, it received its civil registration, N2208C.
New civilian life (1983-2009)
In January 1990, it was acquired by William T. Busch in Bethesda, Maryland. However, on 22 January 2009, its registration was cancelled when it was exported to Sweden.
Last owner (2009-2024)
In May 2009, Hans Johansen obtained the aircraft, which was given a new Swedish registration number SE-MDM. After several years, on 27 October 2024, this emblematic PT-13D was acquired by Iza Bazin, and is now based in Saint-André-de-l’Eure, Normandy, marking a new chapter in its history.
