T-34 Association

Making their CenterPoint Energy Dayton Air Show Presented by Kroger debut is the T-34 Association and their impressive display of T-34s! Air Show Fans will get the incredible opportunity to not only see these aircraft up close on the ground, but they will also get to see them soaring in the sky.

The T-34 Mentor was flown by the U.S. Air Force, Navy and Marines. It first flew in 1950 and began its service with the USAF in 1954. It was used for primary flight training throughout the 1950s.  It was replaced at the end of the decade with the T-37s and many T-34s were turned over to base aero club. While the U.S. Air Force no longer operates the T-34, the U.S. Navy and U.S. Marines actually still operate the T-34C for missions and training purposes.

The T-34 is not just a popular military aircraft, it is also favored among civilian pilots who began purchasing T-34s as the military dropped them from service. The T-34 Association was formed in June 1975, for individuals who were purchasing T-34s to have a network of support when operating and maintaining these aircraft. Initially, there were about 75 members, most of whom were Civil Air Patrol pilots. Today, they have over 400 members. While not all of their members own T-34s, they do all contribute to valuable knowledge that helps to carry on the legacy of the T-34s and inspire the next generations.

T-34s Specs

•       Maximum speed: 191 mph.
•       Range: 821 miles.
•       Ceiling: 20,000 ft.
•       Span: 32 ft. 10 in.
•       Length: 25 ft. 11 in.
•       Height: 9 ft. 7 in.