Stinson Aircraft

Stinson Aircraft was an unusually progressive company founded in 1920 by Edward “Eddie” Stinson. Athough Eddie Stinson was an aircraft manufacturer, he always remained an aviator at heart and died at age 38 in an air accident, while on a salestrip to Chicago. Stinson Aircraft went on to produce many observation and liaison aircraft during the Second World War and was later acquired by Piper. Many Stinson models have found their way to the bush, but the most notable model was the Stinson 108.

Stinson 108s typically featured Franklin engines that develop 165 hp, though many engine modifications are available. Franklin engines are either loved or hated by their operators, but regardless of personal prejudices, parts availability for these engines can be problematic. Franklin was purchased by Polish aeromanufacturer PZL, and claims are made that finding new parts for the Franklin engines is “no problem.” Whether this is the truth or an exaggeration, these engines are not nearly as common as Lycomings or Continentals in North America.

The Stinson 108 was a post-war offering by Stinson Aircraft and featured room for four seats. Although a bit slow and ponderous for its day, the Stinson featured a large cabin. Today Stinson 108s are seen in decent numbers in the bush.

Watch the short video clip to see a Stinson landing in grass.

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