Cessna built the first examples of the “Bamboo Bomber” Cessna UC78 (T-50) Bobcat before WWII as a business-feeder airline aircraft. During the war, many were produced as a multi-engine trainer for future bomber pilots. The airplane was nicknamed “Bamboo Bomber” because of its one piece, 42’ wooden wing. After WWII hundreds of examples were sold for surplus to civilian owners.
It sports retractable landing gear and a spacious, five-person cabin. But since it is small, many were not parked in hangers and the elements have reduced their numbers, with only a few still airworthy.
