The J-5A Cruiser had a wider fuselage than the J-3 and J-4 to accommodate three people. The J-5B was powered by a 75hp Lycoming and the J-5C was powered by a 100hp(75kW) Lycoming and had a maximum take-off weight of 1550lb(703kg). The US Army impressed a small number of civil J-5A’s as L-4F’s and J-5B’s as L-4G’s. The HE-1, later redesignated AE-1, was a version of the J-5C for the US Navy who ordered 100. This had a hinged rear top deck for the loading of a stretcher. At least 450 remain active. A J-5A is shown below.

NC32985                 c/n 5-410                        USA

3 seat light aircraft first flown in 1940

Engine: 75hp(56kW) Continental A75-8                                                                                        Length: 22’6"(6.86m)                                                                                          Height: 6’10"(2.08m)Wingspan: 35’5.5"(10.8m)                                                                                            No.built: 1394 Range: 385miles(620km)                                                                 Cruising speed: 85mph(136kmh) Empty weight: 855lb(388kg)                                                   Maximum take-off weight: 1450lb(658kg)