TAYLORCRAFT BC-12D
During World War II the Taylorcraft company built gliders and the L-2 observation aircraft for the Army Air Force. As the war drew to a close, Taylorcraft turned back to the civil market with the BC-12D. The BC-12D competed with the Piper Cub and other small aircraft in the 65-horsepower class. The Taylorcraft tended to be faster than its competitors with speeds as much as fifteen or twenty miles an hour higher. However, like all the light aircraft in this class, it suffers from a small, cramped cabin. The BC-12D was introduced in 1945. By 1946, over 4,000 had been built. Unfortunately, the market for light aircraft crashed late in 1946 and the company was forced into bankruptcy.
Wingspan | 36 ft |
Length | 21 ft 10 in. |
Height | 8 ft |
Weight | 1,200 lbs (loaded) |
Maximum Speed | 105 mph |
Service Ceiling | 14,500 ft |
Range | 375 miles |
Engine | One Continental O-170-3 with 65 horsepower |
Crew | 2 |
Manufacturer
TAYLORCRAFT BC-12D
Markings
Gilpen & Greenway Airlines, Tucson, Arizona, 1946
Designation
BC-12D
Registration
BC-12D
Serial Number
7243