A Trip Back in Time with the Ford Trimotor

Friday, November 11, 2016 at 10:28 PM ET

Verified

Key Takeaways:

Operating the Ford Trimotor requires a hands-on and physically demanding pre-flight inspection, involving manual propeller turning and climbing onto the wing to check fuel.
The aircraft produces an incredibly loud "demonic shriek" during takeoff but becomes surprisingly quiet at cruise altitude, with wind noise dominating over engine sounds.
Despite heavy controls that demand significant physical effort, the Trimotor is described as a stable, docile, and reliable aircraft, historically serving as a versatile workhorse in early aviation.

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“You push that tip up, and I’ll grab this one.”

Peter Garrison taught himself to use a slide rule and tin snips, built an airplane in his backyard, and flew it to Japan. He began contributing to FLYING in 1968, and he continues to share his columns, ""Technicalities"" and ""Aftermath,"" with FLYING readers.