STINSON "RELIANT" - Plane + Pilot

1934’42

Plane & Pilot

Tuesday, November 30, 1999 at 12:00 AM ET

Verified

Edited By: Omar Filipović

Key Takeaways:

The Stinson Reliant evolved from early straight-wing models (SR-1 through SR-6) into distinctive taper-wing designs starting with the SR-7, which earned it the nickname "Gullwing."
Later models, like the SR-8, introduced a five-seat configuration, while the SR-9 and SR-10 offered various powerful engine options, including Lycoming, Pratt & Whitney, and Wright Whirlwind.
The SR.10 model, introduced in 1938, featured a 290-hp Lycoming engine, a top speed of 141 mph, and a cruise speed of 130 mph, accommodating five passengers.
Production of the Reliant continued after Stinson Aircraft Co. was acquired by Vultee Aircraft in 1940, with the aircraft being redesignated as the V-77, and approximately 500 units were completed under this designation.

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The first model of the Reliant was the SR with a wingspan of 36 feet 3 inches; 88 were built. The Reliant underwent various minor changes that resulted in the SR-1 through SRA. The SR-S, still a four-seater, was introduced in 1934 with a 41-foot wingspan, and 145 subsequently were built. The SR-6 was next, and 50 ships were built. All these early Reliants had evolved from the Stinson S.M. series and had straight wings.

The first taper-wing (gull-wing) Reliant was the SR-7, which had a span of 41 feet. This characteristic wing also gave the Reliant the nickname of Stinson “Gullwing.” The SR-8 was the first to feature five seats. The SR-9 was produced in 1937 making use of the same 285-hp Lycoming nine-cylinder radial engine as the SR- 8, as well as a 450-hp Pratt & Whitney or a 350-hp Wright Whirlwind. The SR-10, introduced in 1938, was fitted with the same three engines. Vultee Aircraft bought the Stinson Aircraft Co. in 1940, and the Reliant became the V-77, and about 500 were completed.