Ryan STM-S2 WW2 Aeroplane

$NZD350,000

This Ryan STM-S2, serial number 492, S-56, A50-29, VH-AHC, ZK-ABC, is a rare and authentic piece of aviation history. First flown in January 1941, this aircraft spent its early days with the Royal Netherland Naval Air Service in Java during WWII. It was evacuated to Australia in the face of a Japanese attack and continued service with the Royal Australian Air Force until its demobilization in 1946.

A beautiful aircraft to fly, it remains in excellent flying condition and is considered a genuine "Warbird" still operating today. Only about 6 of these aircraft remain in authentic condition worldwide. This Ryan STM-S2 has only logged 854 airframe hours and 267 engine hours in its 84 years of existence, making it a rare find.

The aircraft is powered by a Menasco C4S supercharged 4-cylinder engine producing 150 horsepower, with a fixed-pitch wooden propeller. A spare new propeller is included in the sale. The engine, which has been on condition since its second fitting, continues to operate reliably. "Charlie," as it is affectionately known, is now certified by the New Zealand Civil Aviation Authority as a Special Category-Limited (Warbird!).

For modern airspace operations, this historic aircraft has been upgraded with essential equipment, including a radio, intercom, transponder, altitude encoder, and ELT to meet ATC/airspace requirements.