Brought to you by www.aviation-enthusiasts.com.
Eighty-two years ago today, the Junkers Ju 52 took flight for the first time. One of the most important aircraft in European aviation history, “Auntie Ju” served with numerous air carriers as an airliner and freight hauler. Derived from a single-engine aircraft, two additional radial engines were mounted on either wing to improve performance. Corrugated metal skin was used to strengthen the structure against torsion and large, fixed landing gear could cope with rough fields. The Luftwaffe employed the type as a bomber, transporter and minesweeper during World War II.
The photo above portraits the aircraft of the Military Aviation Museum during the 2013 Flying PROMS airshow. This particular aircraft was built in Getafe, Spain and entered service with the Spanish Air Force in 1949. It is painted to replicate a Ju 52 of the 7th Staffel KGzbV1, 1st Bomber Wing of Special Operations. The tactical markings 1Z+AR represent the 1941 Battle of Crete invasion. Out of eight airworthy Ju 52s throughout the world, this is the only one in North America. Visit the full website at www.aviation-enthusiasts.com for more aviation and air show memories!
