Service History
No service history at this time
Unlike its predecessor the C-3 Flying Bathtub, this looked like a real airplane. The new Model K (ATC #655) was introduced to the public at the New York and Los Angeles Airshows in 1937. It was an immediate hit. The factory produced three aircraft per day and they were shipped out six per boxcar. Described as “perky” the K stalled and spun clean and recovered fast. It soon became popular with schools providing solo to most students in 5 hours or less.
The KS (Sea Scout) was immortalized as a seaplane aboard the ship Wyatt Erp during the North Pole Expedition of 1938. The aircraft performed as a spotter to locate passageways in the impenetrable ice flow.
The K offered some optional equipment, a cabin heater, carb heat box, wheel brakes, carpet, pontoons, skis, a steerable tail wheel and prop spinner cap. Standard equipment included a fire bottle; two flight and three engine instruments, seat belts, a first aid kit and log books. The K had no negative attributes with the exception of its stiff legs, which forced pilots to land well or take their own punishment.
Acquired by Yanks in 2012 this aircraft is awaiting restoration.
