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CESSNA O-1G / L-19 "BIRD DOG"
The O-1G is a two-place observation and liaison aircraft developed from the commercial Cessna Model
170 in 1949. Originally designated as L-19s, "Bird Dogs" were used by the USAF, Army, and Marines for such tasks as artillery spotting, front-line communications, medical evacuation, and pilot training.
In Vietnam, O-1s were used by forward air controllers (FACS) for reconnaissance. A "FAC", often an
experienced fighter pilot, was assigned to a specific geographical area, so that he could readily identify enemy activity. If a FAC observed enemy ground targets, he marked them with smoke rockets so they
could be easily attacked by fighter-bombers. The FAC remained on the scene to report bombing results.
The USAF ordered more than 3,200 "Bird Dogs," most of which were built as L-19As between 1950
and 1959. L-19’s were also used extensively by the “Ravens”. The Ravens were an American covert
group of pilots operating in Vietnam and Laos. The Bird Dog was used in Forward Air Controller and Search and Rescue (SAR) operations.
The Museums L-19 is owned by David Porter and is also associated with the Air Acres Museum.
SPECIFICATIONS:
Span: 36 ft.
Length: 25 ft. 10 in.
Height: 9 ft. 2 in.
Weight: 2,400 lbs. loaded
Armament: Generally none except smoke rockets
Engine: Continental O-470 of 213 hp.
Horsepower: 210
Crew: two
75% Cruise: 90 kts
Stall: 47 kts
Range: 530 nm
Srv Ceiling: 18500 ft
Empty Wt: 1614 lbs
Gross Wt: 2400 lbs
Max Fuel: 41 gal
Takeoff (over 50 ft obstacle): 560 ft
Landing (over 50 ft obstacle): 600 ft
PERFORMANCE:
Maximum speed: 150 mph.
Cruising speed: 115 mph.
Range: 530 miles
Service Ceiling: 20,300 ft.
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