Travis Air Force Base
Aviation Museum
U-3A "Blue Canoe"
SERIAL NUMBER: 58-2127
SPECIFICATIONS
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Wing Span: 36 ft
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Length: 27 ft 1 in
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Height: 10 ft 5 in
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Maximum Speed: 257 mph
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Service Ceiling: 20,000 ft
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Range: 850 mi
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Crew: 2 crew, 3 passengers
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Armament: None
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2 x 240 H.P. Continental IO-470-M engines
The U-3A began life as the Cessna model 310A in January of 1953. Built as four or five passenger fast executive transports, 546 U-3As were accepted by the United States Air Force.
Originally designed as L-27As, the U-3A served as an executive transport, liaison aircraft and performed as a chase plane in a number of units that operated the U-2.
When the U-3As were replaced by faster jet propelled aircraft, many were given to base aero clubs. Our U-3A last flew with the aero club at Vandenberg Air Force Base, CA. It was flown to the museum in March of 1987. After 5 months in the restoration hangar, it was placed on display in its military colors.
Information derived from, “Travis Heritage Center” by Nick Veronico, copyright Travis AFB Historical Society and Travis AFB Heritage Center Foundation.
This book is available from the Travis Heritage Center gift shop.