First flying in December 1933, Stearman’s Model C was built as a private venture – but a production order from the United States Navy in 1935 secured the future of the big biplane and it served as a primary trainer thereafter, thousands of raw recruits getting their first taste of flying prior to transitioning onto combat machines. Powered by a number of different radial engines throughout its lengthy career, the Stearman is typically American - big, strong, easy to fly and fully aerobatic. It has been described as '…a man-sized aeroplane with all cockpit equipment of similar healthy proportions, castings and forgings all over the place. There are none of your precious little bits of pressed tin here…!'
'Well over 10,000 examples of the Stearman Model 75, also known by its unofficial Canadian name of ‘Kaydet,’ were built. Post WWII and with so many surplus military examples for sale, the Stearman found itself employed in a myriad of civilian flying roles, from barnstorming through to crop dusting. A large number still operate today, many earning a living offering joy rides. This lovely machine was at one time owned by well known broadcaster the late Paul Holmes and upon purchase by current owner Russell Jenkins, went through an 11 year plus rebuild, flying again in October 2021.
About Marlborough Lines Classic Fighters Omaka: The airshow is the main fundraising event for the Omaka Aviation Heritage Museum, located in Blenheim, Marlborough NZ.
