The Cessna O-1A Bird Dog started civilian life as the Cessna Model 305A, a derivative of the Cessna 170. The US Army began taking deliveries of is as the L-19A Bird Dog in December, 1950, and was soon using it during the conflict in Korea. It was used in various capacities such as artillery spotting, front line communications, medevac and training. In 1962 the Bird Dog, now designated O-1 was sent to Vietnam in similar roles. The Ravens, a clandestine forward air controller group took advantage of the low and slow capabilities to spot enemy concentrations and direct both artillery and air to ground fire. The Bird Dog proved itself a capable and dependable tool for reconnaissance, target acquisition, artillery adjustment, radio relay and convoy escort.
- Powerplant: 1 X Continental O-470-11 flat six piston, 213 hp
- Cruise speed: 104 mph
- Maximum speed: 115 mph
- Range: 530 miles
- Service ceiling: 18,500 ft
- First flight: 14 December 1949
- Number built: 3,431
- Retired: 1974
For more information refer to the following site from which information was taken for this article: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cessna_O-1_Bird_Dog
Our Bird Dog
N41362 (Member Owned)
Owner: John Echols
Manufacturer: Cessna
Model: O-1A (305A) Bird Dog
Year Built: 1951
Construction Number: 22587
Engine Manufacturer and Model: Continental O-470 series
Above information from: http://www.airport-data.com/aircraft/N41362.html
