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The 1931 Pilgrim 100-A Transport
By Roy P. Shannon member #1818
The pilgrim Model 100-A Transport was produced by the American Airplane and Engine Corp., at Farmingdale, NY. The 100-A was based on a design by Sherman Fairchild, and was manufactured at the former Fairchild plant. (Fairchild had relocated to Hagerstown, MD)
The 100-A carried 9 passengers and over 800 lbs. Of cargo and airmail, and was complete with toilet facilities. Pilgrim 100-As continued in airline service until 1934, at which time faster and larger transports came upon the scene.
Adm. Richard E. Byrd was so impressed by the Pilgrim 100, that he procured on for his 1934 Antarctic Expedition. Many of these aircraft were subsequently used in Alaska, where for many years they gained fame for their ability to cope with the harsh climatic condition of that area.
Most pilots were instantly impressed by the commanding view offered by the elevated cockpit arrangement. Also of interest is the prominent radio mast located atop the fuselage. The aircraft shown was operated by American Airlines.
Plane Facts
Engine: 9 cylinder Pratt & Whitney "Hornet", 575 H.P.
Top Speed: 136 m.p.h.
Wingspan: 57 ft.
Length: 38 ft.
Weight Empty: 4,362 lbs.
Payload: 2,228 lbs.
Range: 400-500 miles

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© 2004 The Long Island Early Fliers Club, P.O. Box 221, Bethpage, NY 11714-0221 info@longislandearlyfliers.org |