The Fairchild PT-23 Cornell is a WWII-era primary military trainer. Evolved from the PT-19, it swapped the inline engine for a radial Continental R-670 engine. Notably, the Commemorative Air Force’s “Day’s Pay Squadron” operates one of these aircraft right in your backyard in Richland, WA.
- Engine: Continental R-670 radial engine (220 hp)
- Wingspan: 36 feet
- Cruise Speed: 105 mph to 114 mph
- Distinguishing feature: Distinctive, rounded radial nose compared to the PT-19’s streamlined inline engine housing.
Learn more about our aircraft on the CAF HQ page and our aircraft details page.
How does it work?
Before your flight, you’ll receive a complete pre-flight safety and operations briefing, be assisted into your seat, securely buckled in, and fitted with your headset for hearing protection and in-flight communication.
From engine start to shutdown, you’ll spend thirty unforgettable minutes stepping back into the golden age of military aviation. Experience what it may have felt like to be a young U.S. Naval aviation cadet during World War II, training for combat in an open-cockpit aircraft before heading off to war across the Pacific. Many of these young men had never traveled far from home before answering the call to serve their country.
Watch the pilot perform the carefully choreographed sequence required to bring this historic aircraft to life. Smell the hot oil, hear the roar, and feel the rumble of the vintage radial engine as the PT-23 comes alive around you.
As the wind rushes past the cockpit, imagine the courage, excitement, and uncertainty those young naval airmen felt while preparing for the challenges that awaited them overseas.
Then sit back, take it all in, and enjoy a rare opportunity to fly in an authentic WWII-era trainer aircraft. This is more than just a ride, it’s a living piece of history.
Don’t forget your camera; you’ll want to remember every moment.
Is it safe?
CAF units conducting a ride program conform to strict rules from CAF HQ and ride limitations imposed by the FAA. All ride pilots hold an FAA commercial pilot certificate, meet FAA pilot currency requirements specific to the ride program, and pass a comprehensive review in this aircraft each year with a CAF check pilot.
That said, flying vintage aircraft does involve a small risk and you will be required to read and sign a hold harmless waiver. If you are uncomfortable flying in a 75+ year old aircraft, please enjoy it with us on ground display.