Register

Approachable Aircraft: Stinson 108

Stinson 108: The Flying Station Wagon Jason McDowell
Gemini Sparkle

Key Takeaways:

  • The Stinson 108 is an underappreciated and affordable 1940s four-place, steel-tube-and-fabric taildragger, offering a cost-effective alternative to more popular vintage aircraft.
  • It features a robust airframe, versatile flight characteristics with good payload capacity and short-field performance, and light, balanced handling.
  • Most models are powered by Franklin engines, which require specialized maintenance but are well-supported with available parts, while Lycoming or Continental conversions offer easier serviceability.
  • Ownership is practical due to excellent airframe parts support from Univair and an active, knowledgeable owner community.
See a mistake? Contact us.

On the spectrum of popularity, various aircraft types ebb and flow from decade to decade, and the most sought-after models become easy to spot. Cessna 170s and Carbon Cubs are currently among the most desirable types, and while their popularity and reputation are not necessarily undeserved, the resulting prices often stretch out of reach for many.

Jason McDowell

Jason McDowell is a private pilot and Cessna 170 owner based in Madison, Wisconsin. He enjoys researching obscure aviation history and serves as a judge for the National Intercollegiate Flying Association. He can be found on Instagram as @cessnateur.

Ready to Sell Your Aircraft?

List your airplane on AircraftForSale.com and reach qualified buyers.

List Your Aircraft
AircraftForSale Logo | FLYING Logo
Pilot in aircraft
Sign-up for newsletters & special offers!

Get the latest stories & special offers delivered directly to your inbox.

SUBSCRIBE