DGA-15

The Howard DGA‑15, often called the “Maid in the Sky,” was a four‑seat, single‑engine monoplane produced by the Howard Aircraft Corporation from 1939 until the early 1940s. Derived from the successful DGA‑8 and DGA‑12 series, the DGA‑15 incorporated a larger 260‑hp Lycoming GO‑435 engine, a 43‑foot wingspan and a spacious cabin that could comfortably accommodate a family or a small business party. Its all‑metal, low‑wing design featured flaps and a variable‑pitch propeller, giving it a respectable cruise speed of 165 mph and a range exceeding 900 miles—remarkable for a civilian aircraft of its era. Introduced just before America entered World War II, the DGA‑15 quickly became a favorite of corporate executives, flight schools, and even the U.S. Navy, which purchased a limited number for liaison duties. Because Howard ceased production during wartime, only 147 examples were completed, making the model rare and highly prized by collectors today. The DGA‑15’s blend of comfort, performance, and elegant styling left a lasting imprint on post‑war general aviation, influencing later designs that sought to combine luxury travel with practical utility. Today, the DGA‑15 is celebrated at airshows, where its graceful silhouette and smooth handling continue to inspire new generations of aviators.