The United States’ frenetic entrance into World War II led to many logistical challenges. In regards to the US Army Air Corps (USAAC), a serious and immediate need existed for aircraft to train prospective combat pilots in. The US production ramp-up was in progress, but it would take some time for the required war supplies to be available for use. However, one American entrepreneur was already ahead of the game.
Allen Meyers was a mechanical engineer who worked for Chance-Vought, Glen Martin, and Stinson and went on to design aircraft of his own. In the late 1930s, Meyers had heard about the Civilian Pilot Training Program (CPTP), which had been established as a means of building up the Air Force prior to a likely conflict overseas. With a freshly formed aircraft company, Meyers Aircraft, Allen saw an opportunity to build a plane that could be used for just such a mission and in 1936, the Meyers OTW had performed its first flight.
A training biplane, the Meyers OTW-160 was powered by a 160 hp Kinner R-5 engine. It was nicknamed “Out To Win” because the pilot cadets flying the Meyers would eventually be fighting to beat the Axis forces. The OTW cruised at 105 mph and landed at 40 mph. It proved to be a very docile aircraft, ideal for student pilots. A total of 102 were built between 1936 and 1944, making it a somewhat rarer warbird by today’s standards. It is estimated that two-three dozen examples are still in existence, either airworthy or static. One such example of the OTW has just found a home in Geneseo, New York.
In 2021, a National Warplane Museum volunteer purchased a 1942 Meyers OTW-160, SN #61. It had been based at the museum for the last few years, flown on occasion and kept in pristine condition when at rest in the hangar. The opportunity recently arose for the Geneseo group to acquire the aircraft as part of their flying collection. Paperwork has been submitted to the necessary parties, and an annual inspection has been initiated to get the Meyers airworthy. Soon, the OTW will be gracing the skies above Geneseo as often as possible, “Out To Win” once again. For more information about the National Warplane Museum, visit www.nationalwarplanemuseum.com.
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Born in Milan, Italy, Moreno moved to the U.S. in 1999 to pursue a career as a commercial pilot. His aviation passion began early, inspired by his uncle, an F-104 Starfighter Crew Chief, and his father, a military traffic controller. Childhood adventures included camping outside military bases and watching planes at Aeroporto Linate. In 1999, he relocated to Atlanta, Georgia, to obtain his commercial pilot license, a move that became permanent. With 24 years in the U.S., he now flies full-time for a Part 91 business aviation company in Atlanta. He is actively involved with the Commemorative Air Force, the D-Day Squadron, and other aviation organizations. He enjoys life with his supportive wife and three wonderful children.
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