No, tri-motors. As is often our wont, here comes another post devoted to history, but it’s also part of our series where it’s history that you can not only see, but you can touch, and actually jump into and experience real-time. Even better, if you’re an aviation geek like us, this will thrill you to the moon, as you can actually take flight in it.
Today’s joy is the incredible Ford Trimotor, an American three-engined transport aircraft. Production started in 1925 by the companies of Henry Ford and ended on June 7, 1933, after 199 had been made. It was designed for the civil aviation market, but also saw service with military units.
It was a groundbreaking machine at the time. Made for reliability, the Tri-Motor could safely fly on two engines but maintain flight on only one. It was utilized for airmail and cargo transport as well as passenger service.
But what’s almost a CIA-grade secret is the great leap Ford accomplished between its Model T and Model 18. Momentarily bored by building cars, Henry and Edsel Ford launched commercial aviation with their aptly nicknamed Tin Goose. Though only 199 Tri-Motor aircraft were produced, Ford’s big bird was instrumental in lofting passengers, mail, and freight heavenward in the Roaring Twenties and Tough Thirties. A thrill to see, for sure. But even better if you can actually fly on this beautiful bird. Want to give it a go? You can actually. Click here, courtesy of the Cavalcade of Planes.