CAF Raising Money for Historic Stinson AT-19

Advanced trainer needs an overhaul.

Meg Godlewski

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

Verified

Edited By:

Zach Vasile

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

Key Takeaways:

The Commemorative Air Force's Rainier Squadron is fundraising for an engine overhaul for their 1944 Stinson AT-19 Reliant "warbird," aiming to raise $25,000 towards the total $70,000 cost.
Maintaining vintage aircraft, especially former military warbirds like this historically significant AT-19 which served with the UK Royal Navy via Lend-Lease, is a challenging and expensive endeavor.
The AT-19, a former advanced trainer, is a fan-favorite at airshows and is used by the all-volunteer Rainier Squadron 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.