Luscombe 8A Silvaire

In 1937, Don Luscombe promised his new model ‘8’ would revolutionize the thinking in light plane design. And in fact, his new airplane did just that. An excellent trainer, but not one to take for granted. It requires a pilot to “fly it at all times.”

The museum staff restored this airplane in the first half of 2008.

The Luscombe design was the first light aircraft to see large scale production without the use of wood in its airframe. Instead of wood, the Luscombe relied on an aluminum monocoque fuselage, and fabric covered wings with aluminum ribs and spars.

Year – 1946

Engine – Continental 65 hp

Gross Weight – 1200 lbs

Cruise Speed – 102 mph

Stall Speed – 45 mph

Wingspan – 35’

Price in 1946 – $2,195.

Interesting Facts – The Luscombe is an “advanced” trainer for the museum's student pilots.

The museum volunteers have recovered the wings and installed a new tail section after corrosion was found during an annual inspection.