PRICE REDUCED: Offered for sale is this exceptionally rare 1941 Ryan STM-S2, a genuine World War II military trainer and a significant surviving example of early wartime aviation history.
Serial number 492 (S-56 | A50-29 | ZK-ABC), this aircraft first flew in January 1941 and entered service with the Royal Netherlands Naval Air Service in Java. Following the Japanese advance, it was evacuated to Australia, where it continued operational service with the Royal Australian Air Force until its demobilisation in 1946.
Today, this Ryan STM-S2 remains in excellent flying condition and represents one of only a small number of largely original examples still operating worldwide. With verified wartime provenance and documented service history, it stands as a highly desirable acquisition for collectors, museums, and serious warbird operators.
The aircraft has accumulated 854 total airframe hours and 267 hours since the engine overhaul. It is certified in New Zealand under Special Category – Limited (Warbird) and has been upgraded with essential modern avionics to ensure compliance with current ATC and airspace requirements while maintaining its historic integrity.
This aircraft offers not only operational capability, but long-term collectible value as authentic WWII aircraft continue to become increasingly scarce on the global market.
The Ryan STM series played a vital training role during the early years of World War II. Surviving aircraft with confirmed military lineage are exceptionally rare, particularly those retaining structural originality and flying status.
This example’s dual service with both the Royal Netherlands Naval Air Service and the Royal Australian Air Force enhances its provenance and historical importance. Affectionately known as “Charlie,” this aircraft remains a true flying warbird and an important link to early wartime pilot training operations.
View the aircraft in flight:
https://youtu.be/QVs437aRrlw?si=PY54IcBKu4LLkpvS
Comprehensive documentation, logbooks, and historical records are available to qualified buyers upon enquiry.
Explore more Featured listings on our Aircraft for Sale page.Ryan
STM-S2
For Sale
New Zealand
ZK-ABC
1941
854
Menasco C4S supercharged 4-cylinder engine, 150 Horsepower, 267 hours since overhaul, Operating on condition
Fixed-pitch wooden propeller (spare included)
Radio, Intercom, Transponder, Altitude Encoder, ELT
