Introduction to the Fairchild Cornell
The Fairchild M62A-3 Cornell was a vital primary trainer aircraft during World War II, designed to replace the Tiger Moth in pilot training programs. From 1942 to 1945, a total of 2,853 Cornells were produced, making it an integral part of the British Commonwealth Air Training Plan (BCATP). Faster and more capable than its predecessor, the Cornell introduced new standards for training while addressing the growing demand for skilled pilots.
Design and Features
- Fuselage: Fabric-covered welded steel tube construction for durability.
- Wings and Tail: Built from plywood, including a plywood-sheathed center section, outer wing panels, and tail assembly.
- Control Surfaces: Metal framework covered with fabric.
- Landing Gear: Fixed configuration with a wide wheel span for excellent ground handling.
- Engine: Powered by the Fairchild Ranger, an inverted engine with the crankshaft on top and pistons at the bottom, similar to the Tiger Moth’s Gypsy Major engine.
Performance and Capabilities
The Cornell outperformed its predecessor in several areas:
- Speed: Faster than the Tiger Moth, allowing pilots to progress more efficiently.
- Climb Rate: Offered an impressive rate of climb, preparing trainees for more advanced aircraft.
- Aerobatic Ability: Pilots could perform complex aerobatic maneuvers, making it an excellent tool for advanced training.
Early Challenges
Despite its advantages, the Cornell faced significant challenges early in its service. Some aircraft experienced main spar failures during aerobatic flights, leading to catastrophic wing detachment. This prompted a fleet-wide grounding until engineers identified and rectified the issue, ensuring the aircraft’s safety for rigorous training programs.
A Saskatchewan Connection
The museum’s Cornell holds a special place in Saskatchewan’s aviation history. It was stationed at Assiniboia, one of several RAF bases in the province that also included Moose Jaw, Dafoe, and Davidson. These locations played a pivotal role in Canada’s contribution to the war effort, training countless pilots who went on to serve in the Royal Air Force and Allied forces.Legacy of the Fairchild Cornell
The Fairchild Cornell bridged the gap between basic and advanced pilot training, introducing trainees to faster and more demanding aircraft. Its service during WWII underscored the importance of robust and reliable trainer aircraft in preparing pilots for the challenges of combat.
