About This File
FS2004 Luscombe Model 8A. The Luscombe Model 8 was one of those classics in aviation that was recognized for its nice lines, good performance, and excellent flying characteristics from its inception in 1938. A two-place side-by-side airplane, the Model 8A was re-marketed shortly after World War II with the intention of fulfilling the "airplane-in-every-garage" ideal. Most of these 100 mph cruise speedsters were powered by Continental four-cylinder 65 hp engines. The best overall description of this particular Luscombe creation was simple: it was a "thoroughbred"! The Model 8A represented the next step in Don Luscombe's pioneering work in all-metal aircraft design. In the early years of company history, he had little competition in that category, but the widespread production of all-metal military aircraft during World War II propelled several of Luscombe's competitors directly into this market. Eventually the proliferation of these types drove Luscombe in bankruptcy. Today it remains popular as a classic aircraft. By Lynn and Bill Lyons.