Page 24 - July 2023

IN HISTORY
As early as 1947, Walter H. Beech realized that a new, modern airplane was needed for training student pilots that would be significantly less expensive to operate than World War II-era aircraft such as the North American AT-6 and SNJ. The U.S. Air Force agreed, and in 1953 began flying the T-34A. Similarity to the Model 35 Bonanza is obvious, but the wing’s angle of incidence was slightly different but span remained at 32 feet, 10 inches. All T-34A trainers were powered by a six- cylinder Continental O-470-13 rated at 225 horsepower. (Edward H. Phillips Collection)
Teacher’s Pet – the Model 45
In 1948, senior management at Beech Aircraft Corporation saw the need for a new military trainer to equip postwar air forces. Their solution was the “Mentor” that would become one of the most popular Beechcrafts ever built.
by Edward Phillips 22 • KING AIR MAGAZINE
JULY 2023