Bell P-39N Airacobra
The P-39 was an unusual design when it appeared in 1937. Among its many unorthodox design features are the mounting of the engine behind the pilot, the use of automobile type doors on the sides of the cockpit, and tricycle landing gear. The Airacobra had good low altitude performance but suffered badly at high altitudes. Fortunately, the aircraft’s large, nose mounted 37mm cannon made it a perfect ground attack aircraft. Large numbers of P-39s were exported to the Soviet Union where they were very popular in this role. The Airacobra was never popular in American or British service, but they still served in combat during the early stages of the war while more capable types were being designed and built.

Wingspan34 ft
Length30 ft 2 in.
Height12 ft 5 in.
Weight8,300 lbs (loaded)
Maximum Speed385 MPH
Service Ceiling35,000 ft
Range650 miles
EngineOne Allison V-1710-85 12-cylinder engine with 1,325 horsepower
Crew1
ManufacturerBell
Markings110th Tactical Reconnaissance Squadron, New Guinea, 1944
DesignationP-39N
Serial Number42-18814