P/F-51 Mustang. 1943-84. Last used as frontline equipment by Dominican Republic
AF until 1984.

Super Cub. Even if you regard it as distinct from the J-3, the PA-18
went into service with the USAF in 1950. The Israeli defense forces
sold off their last dozen PA-18s last year, for a service life of 52
years even if no other military is presently using it.

Isn't it amazing? In WWI, fighter aircraft went through four distinct
generations. Now we have planes lasting a half-century.


all the best -- Dan Ford
email:

see the Warbird's Forum at www.warbirdforum.com
and the Piper Cub Forum at www.pipercubforum.com