While visiting my sister and brother-in-law in California, I was invited to take a ride in and fly a vintage 1937 Stinson Reliant Gullwing SR-9, tail number NC-18425. Powered by Pratt & Whitney 450 hp Junior Wasp Radial engine, It is the most powerful (and rarest) of the Relaints made. As was common before WWII, all the flight surfaces and most of the fuselage are covered with fabric and doped to tighten the skin.

This particular aircraft was originally purchased in 1937 by a lady flier and Rick, the current owner, is only the 3rd owner. As was common during WWII, this aircraft was commandeered by the US military and put into service as a trainer before being returned.

Back in 2000, Rick put the plane through a 6 year renovation including a new engine and disassembly/reassembly/refabricing of the entire plane. Unlike most modern civil aircraft, you can see this one has a tailwheel which requires much more piloting ability during taxi, take off and landing. Rick took care of all of those aspects of our flight but allowed me to fly her for an hour or so in between.

It was the experience of a lifetime getting to fly such a beautiful, vintage aircraft and I am truly grateful to Rick for allowing me opportunity!