The "BT" was the Basic Trainer that was the next stop in the cadet's curriculum after the Stearman.  Affectionately known as the "Vibrator," the BT has a relatively powerful Pratt & Whitney engine and flaps, and represented a big step toward the more complex aircraft in the training syllabus.  In the BT, pilots learned navigation, more advanced pilots skills like night flying, and were introduced to instrument flying.  Today, there are very few BTs flying, and we are thrilled to see more and more of them being brought back to flying status.

Vultee BT-13 Specifications:

Nickname: "Vibrator"

Engine: Pratt&Whitney R-985 Radial, 9 Cylinder, 450 hp

Wing Span: 42 ft. Length: 28 ft, 10 in. Height: 11 ft, 6 in.

Weight: Empty: 3375 lbs. Max Take-Off: 4496 lbs.

Maximum Speed: 180 mph

Service Ceiling: 21,650 ft.

Range: 725 miles

Crew: Two

Number Built: 11,500+

Flying Today: Approximately 50

 

 

 PT-17 Stearman
 BT-13 Valiant
 AT-6 Texan
 P-51 Mustang
 P-47Thunderbolt
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