Stinson Airliner

The Stinson Airliner, introduced in the early 1930s by the Stinson Aircraft Corporation, was one of the first American twin‑engine passenger aircraft designed for short‑haul commercial routes. Developed from the successful Stinson SM‑8 series, the Airliner featured a low‑wing monoplane configuration, all‑metal wing spars and a fabric‑covered fuselage that combined durability with lightweight construction. Powered by two reliable Wright R‑975 radial engines delivering roughly 300 horsepower each, the aircraft could cruise at 150 mph and carry up to eight passengers plus a crew of two. Its spacious cabin, large side windows, and relatively quiet operation set new standards for comfort in regional transport. The Airliner’s robust landing gear and forgiving handling made it popular with fledgling airlines operating from unpaved fields throughout the United States and Canada. Although production ceased after a few hundred units due to the rapid emergence of more advanced designs, the Stinson Airliner demonstrated the viability of twin‑engine commercial transport and influenced later models such as the Convair 240. Its legacy endures as a bridge between early barn‑storming planes and the modern airliner era. Today, restored examples are prized by collectors and displayed in aviation museums, reminding enthusiasts of Stinson’s pioneering spirit.