about the airplane
the experience
Step into a piece of history with Deep Creek Aviation’s Stinson Vultee V77, a vintage aircraft that blends the nostalgia of the golden age of aviation with the modern-day safety and performance you expect. Serial number 77-315, this remarkable airplane was first delivered to the Army Air Corps on February 18, 1944, at Romulus Army Air Field in Detroit, Michigan. It was assigned the military serial number 43-44028 and the Royal Navy number FB587, setting the stage for an extraordinary journey.
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After its arrival in the Caribbean, this aircraft served with the Royal Navy’s 752 Squadron at Piarco in Trinidad, where it was used as an observer trainer. During its time there, the airplane played a crucial role in the British evaluation process of the airplanes design, suggesting key improvements that would later influence its use worldwide. Notably, Piarco was the only airfield to use the aircraft in its intended role, while other bases repurposed it for various roles, including serving as an "admiral's barge."
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​As the war ended, this aircraft was returned to the United States and has since evolved into the fully modernized and meticulously maintained airplane you’ll be flying in today. While the Stinson Vultee V77 retains its vintage charm and historic character, it has been fully updated to meet today’s highest standards of aviation safety and reliability.
At Deep Creek Aviation, we understand the unique appeal of flying in a historic aircraft. That's why we’ve made it a priority to combine the nostalgia of this aviation classic with the latest in safety technology. Every part of the aircraft is carefully maintained, ensuring it operates with precision and meets or exceeds current safety standards. From its upgraded avionics to its meticulously restored systems, you can rest assured that you’re flying in a modern, fully operational plane that blends the best of both worlds.
When you take to the skies over Deep Creek Lake, you’re not just enjoying breathtaking views, you’re experiencing the thrill of flying in an airplane with a rich, storied history, all while knowing that safety is our top priority. Whether you’re soaring above the lake, taking in the beauty of Swallow Falls, or gliding over the stunning landscape of Western Maryland, every flight in the Stinson Vultee V77 is an unforgettable journey through time, technology, and natural beauty.
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We invite you to fall in love with the classic design, the vintage allure, and the rich history of this legendary aircraft, while knowing that you are flying in an aircraft that meets the highest modern standards for safety and performance. Your adventure with Deep Creek Aviation will be one that blends the excitement of the past with the confidence of today's technology.