BT-13 Valiant
The "Valiant" was considered to be a basic trainer the US military in WWII and was the
most widely used aircraft flown for that purpose by the US Army Air Forces during that
conflict. A more complex and demanding aircraft than the student aviators flew in primary
training; the BT-13 had a more powerful Wright R-975 engine producing 450 hp, flaps,
variable pitch propeller, and a two-way radio. Built at a cost of $20,000, the BT-13 could
reach a maximum speed of 155 mph and cruise at 130 mph for 880 miles before refueling.
This magnificently polished aluminum aircraft is a 1942 BT-13A, photographed at The
Indianapolis Air Show in 2009 and is restored to museum quality, having been until late
2005 was on loan and displayed at the Birmingham, AL Air Museum. During WWII
she served her country well at the Pecos, TX Army Air Corp Base as a secondary/basic
trainer. Flight Instructor Greg Mahler owns BT # 903, and keeps it based at Indianapolis
Executive Airport in Zionsville, Indiana. A long time supporter-fundraiser and committee
member volunteer for the Indianapolis Air Show, Greg brings this great looking BT-13A
out to the show each year. |
Be sure to come early and enjoy the multitude of exhibits and displays as well as an expanded food & drink selection, exhibits, and many static displays of airplanes you can see up close and personal.
Performers, Schedule & Events are subject to change.
