Pitcairn PA-18


The Pitcairn PA-18 was an autogyro produced in the United States in the early 1930s.

History

In 1931, Pitcairn had produced a lightweight autogyro suitable for the private pilots as the PAA-1. Experience with this and with other light, low-powered machines convinced Pitcairn that while the concept was good, they presented significant handling problems to inexperienced pilots. The PA-18 was designed as a machine for the same market, but with a more powerful engine and structural strengthening. The availability of more power contributed greatly to the aircraft's responsiveness at low speeds.
In 2008, a PA-18 was restored to flying condition by Jack and Kate Tiffany of New Carlisle, Ohio. At the same time, a second PA-18 was under restoration by the Posey Brothers firm at the Trenton-Robbinsville Airport. Most other PA-18s were purchased by the United States government in 1940 and sold on to the United Kingdom. They never arrived, however, since the ship carrying them was sunk by a German submarine.

Specifications (PA-18)