CESSNA "AIRMASTER" - Plane + Pilot

1933’42

Plane & Pilot

Tuesday, December 16, 2008 at 12:00 AM ET

Verified

Edited By: Omar Filipović

Key Takeaways:

Clyde Cessna began producing efficient light planes in 1927, developing models like the AW and BW before production was suspended due to the 1930 Depression.
Cessna resumed business in 1933 with the C-34, an improved and highly efficient version of the AW, featuring a 145-hp engine.
The C-145 Airmaster evolved from the C-34 with revised flaps and a wider landing gear, and was available with a 165-hp Super Scarab engine from 1932.
The Airmaster line remained in production until 1942, marking a significant period for this early Cessna aircraft.

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Clyde Cessna first entered the light plane market on his own in 1927. Between the years of 1928 and 1930 he produced a series of airplanes that were remarkably clean and efficient. The final manifestation of this series was the Cessna AW, a four-seat cabin monoplane utilizing the 125-hp Warner Scarab engine followed by the BW. The Depression caught up with Cessna in 1930, forcing the factory to suspend production; however, in 1933, Cessna was back in business again, this time with a much improved version of the AW, featuring an improved landing gear and a 145-hp engine. This first model, designated the C-34, was possibly the most efficient airplane in its class, and nearly 100 were built. The C-145 Airmaster is basically a modified C-34 featuring revised flaps and a wider gear. In 1932, the Airmaster was made available with the 165-hp Super Scarab, and the line continued in production until 1942.