CAF Raising Money for Historic Stinson AT-19

Advanced trainer needs an overhaul.

Meg Godlewski

Tuesday, June 30, 2026 at 08:00 AM ET

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Edited By:

Zach Vasile

CAF Rainier Squadron AT-19 in flight [Credit: Rainier Squadron]

Key Takeaways:

The Commemorative Air Force's (CAF) Rainier Squadron has launched a fundraising campaign to cover the estimated $70,000 cost of an engine overhaul for its 1944 Stinson AT-19 Reliant warbird, initially targeting $25,000.
The AT-19, an "advanced trainer" during WWII, was part of approximately 500 aircraft provided to the U.K. Royal Navy through the Lend-Lease program.
After its wartime service, the aircraft was returned to the U.S., demilitarized, and passed through various civilian owners before the CAF acquired it in 1985.
The all-volunteer Rainier Squadron, established in Washington state in 2017, uses the historic aircraft for displays and educational programs to preserve aviation history.

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One of the most challenging aspects of owning a vintage aircraft is that they can be expensive to maintain—especially if it’s a former military aircraft, also known as a warbird. That’s why the Commemorative Air Force’s Rainier Squadron in Washington state has launched a fundraising campaign to help cover the cost of an engine overhaul for its 1944 Stinson AT-19 Reliant.

AT stands for “advanced trainer.” During the war they were used as navigational trainers and liaison aircraft.