North American T-28 Trojan

Single Piston· 212 globally registered

The North American T-28 Trojan is a piston-powered military trainer that served as the U.S. Air Force and Navy's primary advanced trainer from 1950 through 1984, bridging the gap between basic trainers and first-generation jets. Built in three main variants (the original T-28A with an 800-hp Wright R-1300, the more powerful T-28B and C models with 1,425-hp Wright R-1820 engines), the Trojan trained tens of thousands of military aviators during the Cold War era. Its tandem cockpit, tricycle landing gear, and docile handling made it an ideal platform for teaching instrument flying, formation work, and carrier operations, with the T-28C variant featuring an arresting hook and strengthened airframe for Navy deck training. What makes the T-28 remarkable today is its second life as one of the most capable and sought-after warbirds in civilian hands. With a 1,425-hp radial engine driving the later variants to cruise speeds around 200 knots and a never-exceed speed of 350 knots, the Trojan offers genuine military performance in a relatively affordable package. The type saw combat service during the Vietnam War and various counterinsurgency operations, giving surviving airframes authentic military heritage. Its sturdy construction, spacious cockpit, and powerful engine make it popular for airshow performances, formation flying, and cross-country travel, far more capable than typical World War II trainers. The T-28's operating envelope reflects its military trainer roots: a service ceiling around 35,000 feet, range exceeding 1,000 nautical miles with external tanks, and aerobatic capability including loops, rolls, and Cuban eights. Stall speeds are relatively benign at 67 knots with flaps and 76 knots clean, while approach speeds typically run around 85 knots. The type's excellent visibility, responsive controls, and forgiving stall characteristics made it an outstanding trainer, while its surplus availability and reasonable operating costs have made it a warbird favorite for over four decades. SkyMeter has tracked 34 flights across 18 airframes and 18 operators, with SUGDEN RICHARD G MD the largest observed operator.