Image of the Air Force wings with the museum name underneath

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Cessna U-3A

Popularly known in the U.S. Air Force as the "Blue Canoe," the U-3 is the military version of the Cessna 310 twin-engine transport. The prototype made its first flight on Jan. 3, 1953, and production for the civilian market began in 1954. In 1957 the USAF selected the aircraft for service as a light administrative liaison, cargo and utility transport. The Air Force eventually bought 160 "off-the-shelf" under the original designation L-27A, later changed to U-3A. Thirty-five more were delivered in 1960-1961 as U-3Bs -- all weather versions with more powerful engines, additional cabin windows, a longer nose and a swept vertical fin.

The aircraft on display is one of several USAF U-3As that were transferred to the U.S. Army. It was flown to the museum in September 1984.

TECHNICAL NOTES: 
Engines: Two Continental O-470-Ms of 240 hp each 
Maximum speed: 238 mph
Range: 900 miles
Service ceiling: 22,000 ft.
Span: 35 ft. 8 in.
Length: 27 ft.
Height: 10 ft. 5 in.
Weight: 4,830 lbs. maximum
Serial number: 58-2124


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