Aircraft overview

The Ryan PT-22 Recruit is a World War II era primary trainer built by Ryan Aeronautical Company in San Diego, California. Developed from the Ryan ST trainer family, the PT-22 entered U.S. Army Air Corps service in 1941 and was produced during the early war years, with more than 1,000 examples built. Unlike the PT-21, the Ryan PT-22 Recruit used a radial engine installation, giving it a distinct appearance and operating character. It matters today as one of the recognizable American open cockpit military trainers, valued for its low wing handling, period authenticity and direct connection to early wartime pilot training.

Performance & specifications

Typical Ryan PT-22 Recruit performance is modest by modern standards, but appropriate for its trainer role. Cruise speed is commonly around 90 knots, with maximum speed often cited near 108 knots. Range is approximately 180 to 210 nautical miles depending on power setting, fuel load and aircraft condition. Service ceiling is generally listed around 15,000 feet. The aircraft is powered by a Kinner R-540 series five cylinder radial engine rated at about 160 hp. Maximum gross weight is about 1,860 lb, with useful load commonly in the 500 to 550 lb range, but individual aircraft should be checked against current weight and balance records.

Cabin & avionics

The Ryan PT-22 Recruit has two seats in tandem under open cockpits, with the student and instructor arrangement reflecting its military training purpose. There is no modern cabin in the contemporary sense, no pressurization, no heating system comparable to later touring aircraft and limited space for personal items. Visibility is a major part of the flying experience, while wind, noise and weather exposure are inherent to the design. Original instrumentation was simple and training focused. Surviving aircraft typically carry basic VFR equipment, often including a comm radio, transponder, ADS-B equipment where required and engine monitoring suited to the Kinner radial. Garmin Perspective or G1000 avionics are not typical for this aircraft.

Buying & value

Prospective buyers should evaluate the Ryan PT-22 Recruit as a historic aircraft rather than a practical cross country machine. Important inspection areas include airframe corrosion, fabric condition, wing and tail structure, landing gear condition, control cable routing, brake installations and quality of prior restoration work. Engine status is central to value, since Kinner R-540 parts, overhaul expertise and accessory condition can affect operating cost and dispatch reliability. Logbook continuity, military provenance, conformity to original configuration and any approved modern equipment installations all influence desirability. The used market generally positions the Ryan PT-22 Recruit among collectible warbird trainers, below higher performance advanced trainers, but above ordinary vintage light aircraft when documentation and restoration quality are strong.