North American Harvard

Harvard 2610 (66-2343) fitted with rocket rails at Blatchford Field (CYXD) Edmonton Municipal Airport

Post-World War II, 418 Squadron utilized the North American Harvard to transition from combat operations to peacetime training. Known for its demanding flight characteristics, the Harvard was an advanced trainer aircraft that played a crucial role in the training regimen of the Royal Canadian Air Force. Beginning in 1946, the Harvard helped hone the skills of pilots in complex flight operations and instrument navigation. Its reliability and effectiveness in pilot training ensured that 418 Squadron maintained high standards of readiness and operational excellence during the transition to a peacetime military posture.

• Engine: Pratt & Whitney R-1340-AN-1 Wasp, 600 hp, radial

• Wingspan: 42 feet 0.5 inches (12.8m)

• Length: 28 feet 11 inches (8.8m)

• Height: 11 feet 9 inches (3.5m)

• Weight (empty): 3995 pounds (1812kg)

• Weight (gross): 5235 pounds (2375kg)

• Cruising speed: 140 miles per hour (225km/h)

• Maximum speed: 180 miles per hour (290 km/h)

• Rate of Climb: 1300 feet per minute (396 meters per minute)

• Service ceiling: 22,000 feet (6710 miles)

• Range: 710 miles (1143km)