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Approachable Aircraft: Stinson 108

Stinson 108: The Flying Station Wagon Jason McDowell
Gemini Sparkle

Key Takeaways:

  • The Stinson 108 is an underappreciated and undervalued 1940s-era four-place taildragger, offering a capable and affordable alternative to currently popular, pricier aircraft.
  • While inexpensive examples are available, it's recommended to invest in a thoroughly sorted aircraft, especially considering its common Franklin engines require expert maintenance but contribute to its lower acquisition cost.
  • Owners benefit from its robust airframe, significant useful load (900-1000 lbs), good short-field performance, docile flight characteristics, and strong ongoing parts and community support.
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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.

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