Stinson L-5 Sentinel

Like the L-3, the L-5 was developed for military use from a civilian aircraft, the Stinson 105 Voyager. It was the second most widely used liaison aircraft, with over 3,500 being delivered between 1942 and 1945. It’s most notable characteristic is it’s short-field takeoff and landing capability, even operating from tree-top platfroms above the jungle in the Pacific theater.

Nicknamed the “Flying Jeep” the two-place L-5 was used for reconaissance, removing wounded from the front, delivering supplies to isolated units, laying communications wire, fire-direction, and search-and-rescue missions involving downed airmen.

Much more heavy than other liaison aircraft, the L-5 fuselage is fabric-covered heavy-guage tubing, the wings of wooden spars, and plywood shear panels for strength. The tail is of a monocoque plywood design.

Our L-5, N2242, is owned by Wing Member Dean Krueger.

Read Bud Davisson’s pirep of the L-5 here: Pilot Report

Specifications

Span: 34 ft.
Length: 24 ft. 1 in.
Height: 8 ft. 11 in.
Weight: 2, 050 lbs. max
Armament: None
Engine: 190 hp Lycoming O-435-1 flat-six

Performance

Max speed: 130 mph
Cruising speed: 90mph
Range: 360 miles
Service ceiling: 15, 800 ft.