Silk Wings Aviation Great Lakes Biplanes

The Great Lakes 2T-1 biplane is among the very best of the classic biplane designs. Developed during the big aviation boom that was sparked by Lindberg’s historic trans-Atlantic flight, the Great Lakes 2T-1 was conceived as an easy-to-fly sport, acrobatic, and training airplane. The Great Lakes Aircraft Company employed expert aeronautical engineers with the goal of producing a robust, lightweight two-seat biplane with exceptional flying qualities, and the resulting 2T-1 biplane was an absolute aeronautical success. Its superb flying qualities, practical design features, and attractive price made it an instant hit that generated acclaim and admiration and the Great Lakes sold well in an industry flooded with competing designs. Unfortunately, however, the long and severe economic depression of the 1930s forced the Great Lakes Aircraft Company to cease production in 1935 after building 264 of the 2T-1 aircraft.

But by then the overall excellence of the Great Lakes 2T design and its widespread popularity had already made it a legend among pilots. Demand for the 2T-1 remained strong, and the Great Lakes 2T-1A was officially returned to production in the 1970s. In 2010, WACO Classic Aircraft Corporation, the manufacturer that successfully revived the beautiful WACO YMF-5 biplane, took ownership of the Great Lakes 2T design and will begin production in 2011 with initial deliveries planned for early 2012. The new Great Lakes model 2T-1A-1/2 will incorporate further updates and refinements to the legendary design and will meet current FAA certification criteria. Reasonably priced, the new Great Lakes biplane will appeal to pilots seeking an aerobatic-capable sport biplane with delightful flying qualities in a classic design that captures the timeless romance of aviation’s Golden Age. Additionally, the Great Lakes biplane will be a popular attraction for flying clubs, flight training operations, and aerial tour operators.

WACO Classic Aircraft Co. is now accepting orders for new Great Lakes 2T-1A-1/2 airplanes, with customer deliveries to begin in early 2012. We recommend that those interested in owining a new Great Lakes place their orders soon, as this is a hand-built, limited production airplane and 2012 delivery positions will soon sell out.