Boeing Stearman Model 75

The Boeing Stearman EI-HFD is a Stearman E75 (A75N1) primary trainer aircraft built in the United States on 1 May 1943, during the height of the Second World War. Powered by a Lycoming R-680-17-B4E radial engine, the aircraft was manufactured as part of the extensive Stearman production programme that supplied training aircraft to Allied air forces. Aircraft of this type were widely used by the United States Navy to train pilots in the fundamentals of military flying, earning the Stearman a reputation for strength, reliability and forgiving handling.

Following its military service, the aircraft remained in storage before being dismantled and shipped to the United Kingdom in 1981, where it underwent a comprehensive rebuild for continued civilian operation. At the time of sale in 1981, the aircraft had accumulated over 1,500 flight hours, reflecting its earlier operational life. After a period operating in the UK, the aircraft was sold to Cathal Ryan in Ireland, marking the beginning of its Irish civilian history.

While in private ownership in Ireland, the aircraft was painted with the distinctive “Spirit of Tipperary” markings, a name that has remained closely associated with the airframe ever since. The Boeing Stearman became a familiar and much-loved sight at aviation events, representing the classic open-cockpit biplanes of the wartime training era.

In 2016, the aircraft was transferred to the Irish Historic Flight Foundation and entered onto the Irish civil register as EI-HFD. Today, it continues to fly in its “Spirit of Tipperary” livery as part of the IHFF fleet. Alongside the Foundation’s de Havilland Chipmunks, EI-HFD plays a vital role in preserving and showcasing Ireland’s aviation heritage through active flying displays, commemorative events and public engagement—ensuring the sights and sounds of historic military training aircraft remain alive for future generations.