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Beechcraft MENTOR
Rare view of the short-lived RCAF Beechcraft Mentor (CF Photo)
In early 1950s, the RCAF initiated an evaluation program to select a new primary trainer as it struggled to define the pilot training program best suited to the needs of a "jet" air force. The Beechcraft T-34A Mentor training aircraft had been a development of the successful Beechcraft Bonanza light aircraft and in fact shared many components in common with its civilian cousin.
The T-34A Mentor was adopted by both the USAF and USN for primary training and in 1953, the USAF gave a contract to Canadian Car and Foundry to build 34 T-34As. Shortly thereafter, perhaps, somewhat reluctantly, the RCAF ordered 25 of the low-powered Mentors for its own use. An experimental course of student pilots was processed on the Mentor through normal training at No. 4 FTS in Penhold, Alberta.
For a variety of reasons the Mentors were not considered suitable for RCAF training purposes. One aircraft was written off in a crash and the remaining aircraft were quickly disposed of to Greece and Turkey as part of a NATO Mutual Aid program.
| Manufacturer: | Licence-built from Beechcraft by Canadian Car & Foundry |
| Crew/Passengers: | Two pilots: student and instructor in tandem |
| Power Plant: | One 225 hp Continental 0-470-13 piston engine |
| Performance: | Max Speed: 189 mph (304 km/h) Cruising Speed: 173 mph (278 km/h) Service Ceiling: 21,200 ft (6,461 m) Range: 975 mi ( 1,569 km) |
| Weights: | Empty: 2,170 lb (985 kg) Gross: 2,900 lb (1,317 kg) |
| Dimensions: | Span: 32 ft 10 in (10.01 m) Length: 25 ft 10 in (7.87 m) Height: 9 ft 7 in (2.92 m) Wing Area: 177 sq ft (16.51 sq m) |
| Armament: | None |
| Cost: | Unknown |