Convair T-29 Flying Classroom

The Convair T‑29 Flying Classroom, developed by Convair in the late 1940s, served as the U.S. Air Force’s primary multi‑engine trainer for nearly two decades. Derived from the Convair B‑32 “Demon” and the first-generation B‑24 Liberator, the T‑29 combined proven bomber components with a redesigned cockpit to accommodate a pilot, co‑pilot, and an instructor seated side‑by‑side, while the rear compartment housed up to twelve cadets for navigation, bombardier, and radio‑operator training. Powered by two Pratt & Whitney R‑2800 Double Wasp radial engines delivering 2,000 horsepower each, the aircraft offered reliable performance, a maximum speed of 300 mph, and a service ceiling of 25,000 feet, allowing trainees to experience realistic flight conditions similar to combat aircraft of the era. Its forgiving handling characteristics and robust airframe made it ideal for teaching instrument flying, formation work, and crew coordination. The T‑29’s introduction marked a shift from single‑engine trainers to complex, twin‑engine platforms, preparing thousands of airmen for the jet age. Retired in the early 1970s, the Flying Classroom remains a symbol of post‑World War II training innovation and underscores Convair’s pivotal role in advancing military aviation education.

Convair

Convair T-29 Flying Classroom

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Design & Classification