UC-78

About the UC-78

The Cessna UC-78 Bobcat is a twin-engine fixed-wing aircraft built in the United States, designed primarily as an advanced trainer to help pilots transition from single-engine machines to bigger multi-engine combat planes. It features a conventional layout with two engines, an enclosed cabin seating a pilot and multiple passengers, and a retractable landing gear system. This model suits roles requiring an economical light twin.

Originating from a commercial civilian transport design created after the retirement of the company founder, the prototype took to the air just before the Second World War. The airframe utilizes a wooden and tubular steel structure covered in fabric, with wings built around laminated spruce spars and plywood components. Military variants served extensively during the conflict for transport and training duties, while Canadian forces utilized a similar version under a different name.