Aeroplane Monthly 1989-05
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H.Levy - Travel Air 4-D
Bill Plecenik's classic Travel Air 4-D NC9917, based at Van Sant Airport in Pennsylvania
Owned by American Airlines Boeing 727 pilot Bill Plecenik, Travel Air 4-D NC9917 is based at Van Sant Airport, Erwinna, Pennsylvania. Built in December 1929 as a Model B9-4000 Speedwing, NC9917 was converted to Model 4-D standard during the Thirties. It is powered by a seven-cylinder Wright Whirlwind R-760-8, and has a cruising speed of 105 m.p.h. After serving as a trainer, Pepsi Cola skywriter and cropduster, the wooden and steel-tube three-seater was stored for many years.
The Travel Air's commodious cockpit - note the leather upholstery up underneath the decking.