The Aircraft

The Ryan PT-22, a prominent military trainer aircraft of World War II, played a pivotal role in the United States Army Air Corps' pilot training programs. Manufactured by the Ryan Aeronautical Company, the PT-22, also known as the Recruit, was designed to transition novice pilots from basic training to more advanced aircraft handling. Its low-wing monoplane design, coupled with an open cockpit, presented an authentic flight experience that was both exhilarating and demanding for trainee pilots.

One of the standout features of the PT-22 was its Kinner R-540 radial engine, which provided a unique sound and vibration experience, setting it apart from other trainers of the era. This engine, combined with the aircraft's lightweight structure, offered excellent maneuverability, making it an ideal platform for teaching fundamental flight skills. However, its challenging flight characteristics required pilots to develop a keen sense of airmanship, particularly in handling spins and stalls, which were common due to its sensitive controls.

The PT-22's robust and straightforward construction made it a reliable and durable training aircraft, capable of withstanding the rigors of extensive use. It also served as a crucial step in the progression of thousands of pilots, who would go on to fly more complex and combat-oriented aircraft. Today, the Ryan PT-22 holds a cherished place in aviation history, symbolizing the era's dedication to producing skilled aviators through rigorous and effective training methodologies. Its legacy is preserved by aviation enthusiasts and historians who recognize its significant contribution to military aviation training during a critical period in history.

The Model

I hope you enjoy this addition to the collection! I recommend glue for this one as the landing gear connection can be kind of loose, depending on printers and settings, though the example in the images did go together with zero glue. Look closely at the images for reference.

If you have a Bambu printer with AMS you may want to download that file to print as shown in the images using Bambu Basic PLA black, silver, and yellow.

Any questions or concerns, please reach out to me. I try to be prompt with messages and can usually get to a request within 24 hours.