General Product Description

Our PlaneArts Great Lakes 2T-1A-2 model exhibits unique, unrivaled quality and detailed design to come as close as possible to the accuracy of the actual plane. It comes as standard with a robust, durable base or stand which is available in a variety of different finishes designed to match your own personal requirements including solid wood, wood with polished metal supports or adjustable wood wall mount and will be ready within about 9-10 weeks from placement of order.

The Great Lakes 2T-1A-2 model is made of the finest kiln dried renewable mahogany wood (commonly known as Lauan or Meranti) which has undergone many stages of carving and meticulous and careful sanding giving the beautiful finished museum quality masterpiece. Many collectors and model connoisseurs demonstrate their preference for genuine handmade and hand painted mahogany wood models rather than plastic or die cast (diecast) alternatives due to the overall look and totally different feel of the item - we trust you will find the same. We can, however, if required produce the same model in Solid Cast Resin so just click and contact us us for further information. Our craftsmen and gifted artisans ensure that our finely handcrafted model airplanes match the precise blueprint details of the original aircraft. The paint scheme, markings and parts are closely matched, reflecting the original aircraft. This stylish top-quality desktop replica model will surely enthrall anyone who receives this as a gift and for sure one of the most appropriate and desirably collectable gifts for any aviation enthusiast and avid aircraft collector whilst also displaying a perfect resemblance to the actual aircraft.

If you require we can also make the Great Lakes 2T-1A-2 model in any other airline, private livery or colour scheme you require and if necessary in a different size or scale. Just click here to contact us with a description or photographs of what you require, and we will let you have a quotation for the necessary customization by return email. We can also make bespoke scale replicas of any other private / civil commercial airliner or airliners, helicopter, glider, gliders with engines, military jet, warplane jets, propeller warplanes, biplane, triplane, tail fin, spacecraft, rocket or NASA model you require in any airline, military or civilian livery or colors. We also produce model airships, blimp, dirigible, blimps, boat and ship collectibles. Wall plaque or seal for military, government or private customers. Again, by clicking here to contact us just let us know exactly what you need.

Great Lakes 2T-1A-2: A Staple of Aerobatic Flight

The Great Lakes 2T-1A-2 is a biplane that captures the essence of classic aerobatic flying. This aircraft, a successor to the original designs from the 1920s, remains a popular choice for aviation enthusiasts due to its unique combination of vintage design and modern performance capabilities. In this article, we delve into the key features of the Great Lakes 2T-1A-2, examining what makes it a revered model in the world of sport aviation.

Historical Backdrop:

The original Great Lakes Aircraft Company was established in 1929, and quickly gained a reputation for building reliable, high-performance biplanes. The 2T-1 model was first introduced in the early 1930s and was predominantly used for training and aerobatic performances. After several changes in ownership and a lapse in production, the rights to the Great Lakes designs were acquired by new owners who reintroduced the 2T-1A-2 model in the 1970s, featuring several updates to meet modern standards.

Design and Construction:

The Great Lakes 2T-1A-2 retains the classic aesthetic of its predecessors, with a fabric-covered, welded steel tube fuselage and wooden wing structure. The biplane configuration, with its two wings stacked one above the other, provides increased lift and the distinctive agility needed for complex aerobatics. The aircraft’s design incorporates a single engine and a fixed tailwheel landing gear, which is typical of traditional training biplanes.

Performance and Specifications

Equipped with a Lycoming AEIO-360 engine, the Great Lakes 2T-1A-2 offers a powerful yet smooth flying experience, ideal for performing a range of aerobatic maneuvers. This engine generates approximately 180 horsepower, enabling a top speed of around 120 miles per hour. The aircraft has a range of about 400 miles, making it suitable not only for local flights but also for longer journeys that appeal to adventure-seeking pilots.

Key Specifications:

• Wingspan: 26 feet
• Length: 20 feet
• Height: 7 feet 10 inches
• Maximum Takeoff Weight: 1,800 pounds
• Fuel Capacity: 27 gallons

Aerobatic Capabilities:

The Great Lakes 2T-1A-2 shines in its ability to perform a wide array of aerobatic maneuvers. From loops and rolls to more complex sequences like spins and hammerheads, the aircraft’s responsiveness and agility make it a joy to fly for both novice and experienced aerobatic pilots. The biplane’s structure allows for tight, controlled motions, offering exhilarating performance that harkens back to the golden age of stunt flying.

Cockpit and Avionics:

The cockpit of the Great Lakes 2T-1A-2 is relatively straightforward, mirroring the simplicity of earlier aircraft models. It typically features basic flight instruments and can be customized with modern avionics for pilots who prefer contemporary enhancements. Despite its retro design, the cockpit layout ensures that essential controls are easily accessible, making it an ideal trainer for pilots learning the nuances of aerobatic flight.

Legacy and Popularity:

Today, the Great Lakes 2T-1A-2 continues to be celebrated for its blend of historical charm and robust performance. It appeals not only to those who appreciate the nostalgia of early 20th-century aviation but also to those seeking a capable and fun aerobatic aircraft. Its enduring presence at air shows and in flying clubs around the world testifies to its lasting appeal and reliability.

Conclusion:

The Great Lakes 2T-1A-2 remains a testament to the enduring allure of biplanes and the thrill of aerobatics. Its blend of classic design, dependable performance, and versatile flying capabilities ensures that it will continue to be a beloved fixture in the skies for years to come. For aviation enthusiasts and pilots alike, the Great Lakes 2T-1A-2 represents a link to the past and a gateway to exhilarating aerial adventures.