Colquhoun, Thomas Dickie (Leading Aircraftman)

The Fleet Finch was the final version of a whole family of light biplane trainers, designed by Consolidated Aircraft of Buffalo, NY and intended for civilian use. Few of these aircraft were marketed under the Consolidated name, as most were sold through Fleet Aircraft Canada, under a range of model numbers. Only the RCAF gave any of these models names, calling the Model 7 the Fawn and the Model 16 the Finch. These aircraft were built from 1930 to 1941, all at Fort Erie, Ontario.

The Finch was developed to meet an RCAF requirement for a fully aerobatic, primary trainer. The RCAF ordered the first batch of aircraft in July 1939 and powered by a Kinner R5-2, 160 hp engine, they were designated the Fleet Finch Mk. I. Most of these aircraft were delivered to the RCAF Central Flying School at Trenton, Ontario by early 1940.

The RCAF placed a further order for primary trainers with Fleet in January 1940. The Fleet Finch Mk. II, powered by a Kinner B-5R, 130 hp engine, first flew from Fort Erie in March 1940. During the following year, over 400 Fleet Finch Mk. IIs were delivered to BCATP Elementary Flying Schools right across Canada.

The Fleet Finch was well liked by the RCAF as it was a rugged aircraft, was relatively easy to fly and withstood the abuse of novice pilots. Some Fleet Finches remained in service with the RCAF until 1947, but most were retired by October 1944. Their role as a primary trainer was taken over by Fairchild PT-26 Cornell. Canadian Warplane Heritage Museum

Harold Skaarup Web Page

Fleet Finch

Aircraft Images

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Finch 4415

Finch Finch II 4415

To Fleet Aircraft at Crumlin, Ontario for crash repairs, 18 May to 15 June 1942. To No. 3 Training Command when completed, for use by No. 17 Elementary Flying Training School at Stanley, NS. Crashed 10 miles north east of Stanley on 3 February 1943. Instructor Pilot Officer J.L.D. White and student Leading Aircraftman T.D. Colquhoun killed. To No. 4 Repair Depot at Scoudouc, NB on 5 March 1943 for scrapping.

1940-04-11 Taken on Strength No. 1 Training Command 2019-08-20
1942-April-01 Accident: CENTRAL FLYING SCHOOL TRENTON Loc: Aerodrome Names: Johnston | Mcnicoll
1943-February-03 Accident: 17 Elementary Flying Training School Loc: Stanley Names: Colquhoun | White
1943-04-24 Struck off Strength Struck off after crash, see comments 2019-08-20