Schweizer TG-3A Glider
Serial Number: 18
Registration:
Markings: WWII Army Air Forces
Museum Condition: Static Display Only (hanging)
The TG-3A hangs from the ceiling corner in our main hangar
The TG-3A is a two-place, dual-control glider manufactured for the Army Air Forces by the Schweizer Aircraft Co. during WW II. It was derived from the Schweizer SGS 2-12 high-performance sailplane (designated XTG-3 by the AAF). The AAF evaluated the aircraft in 1942 for suitability as a trainer for cargo glider pilots. Student glider pilots normally received about six hours dual instruction in the TG-3As before being trained in the large CG-4A cargo glider. This glider was restored to its WWII Army Air Forces color scheme and markings.
The TG-3As wings are made of spruce and mahogany plywood covered with fabric. It is equipped with spoilers (used to increase descent rate) as well as ailerons. The fuselage is constructed of welded chrome-molybdenum steel tubing which is also fabric covered. The landing gear is a single unsprung wheel with a disc brake. In addition, there are skids on the nose, tail and wing tips.
| Type |
Light Bomber |
| Manufacturer |
Douglas Aircraft Company |
| Maiden Flight |
10 July 1942 |
| Introduced |
August 1943 |
| Theatre of War |
World War II |
| Number Produced |
111 |
| Status |
28 Still Registered with the FAA |
| Crew |
2 (instructor, student) |
| Wingspan |
54 ft 0 in |
| Length |
27 ft 7 in |
| Height |
8 ft 0 in |
| Empty Weight |
22,850 lbs |
| Max Takeoff Weight |
1,200 lbs |
| Power Plant |
None |
| Glide Ratio |
20 to 1 |
| Maximum Speed |
86 knots (100 mph) towed or free |
| Stall Speed |
33 knots (38 mph) |
| None |
|
|
|
