Video: Take a ride in the ‘Tin Goose’
Photo by Skye Ravy.
Ford tri-motor airplane comes to Paso Robles and San Luis Obispo
The Ford Tri-Motor, also known as the, “Tin Goose,” is a three engine transport aircraft first produced in 1925. Production of the plane resulted in 199 aircraft. The Ford that is touring the Central Coast this extended weekend is one of only three planes of it’s kind in operation.
Councilmen Steve Gregory and Jim Reed took a ride on Thursday. Photo by Skye Ravy.
The plane was the first of it’s kind designed for passenger use and enabled Coast-to-Coast airline service, and was claimed to be the safest airliner around.
While the aircraft business was not profitable for Ford, his reputation lent credibility to the infant aviation and airline industries. Ford was the first to create a paved runway, and the first to build an airport terminal with a restaurant. His actions in in the 1920’s and 30’s helped to shape the future of the airline industry. “The structure of the airline service was originated by Ford,” said Experimental Aircraft Chapter 465 President David Fretwell.
A view of the interior, which seats 8 passengers. Photo by Skye Ravy.
This particular plane had a varied history, going from passenger service to postal service to agricultural service, and then it operated as a fire bomber, carrying smoke jumpers. For a while it was air force one for the Dominican Republic.
On April 16, media members and local dignitaries took a ride. Council members Jim Reed and Steve Gregory were among the group taken up. “I love this kinda stuff,” said Reed, who said that he loves history, machines and has been taking steps towards obtaining his pilot’s license. Gregory said that he too is a history buff, and had a special affinity for planes because his father served as a fighter pilot in WWII.
The local Ford dealership brought out vintage Ford cars from the same era. Photo by Skye Ravy.
The plane was destroyed close to 12 years ago in a storm, when it was picked up by the wind and dropped on it’s back. The Experimental Aircraft Association then repaired the plane, restoring it to it’s original condition.
Rides will be available on April 17 and 18 at Paso Robles airport, and April 19 and 20 at the San Luis Obispo Airport from 10 a.m. until 6 p.m. Take a ride for $70 per adult or $50 per child with advance sign-up. Book tickets at www.flytheford.org, EAA’s Tri-Motor tour website, or by calling 1-800-843-3612.
A view of Paso Robles from the sky. Photo by Skye Ravy.
Revenues from the Ford Tri-Motor tour help cover maintenance and operations costs for the aircraft helps to keep the “Tin Goose” flying for many years to come.
