Laister-Kauffman TG-4A Training Glider

Gliders were used widely for transporting airborne troops and cargo during WWII. Types like the U.S. Army Air Forces’ TG-4A provided training platforms for the combat glider pilots.

The TG-4A was a conventional sailplane design with a tubular steel fuselage, spruce and mahogany plywood cantilever wings and tail, skinned with fabric. The pilot and instructor sat in tandem beneath a long canopy. Interestingly, these gliders were equipped with SCR-585 radios to allow their crew to communicate with the tow plane pilot. 

The Museum’s TG-4A (s/n 42-53072) was ordered in 1942 and manufactured in St Louis, Missouri. It was one of 150 examples built for training purposes during WWII; production ceased in June 1943. Glider enthusiast and WWII CG-4A veteran, Joe Mathias Jr. restored this fine aircraft in Windsor, Virginia and flew it to the Museum’s airfield so it could join our collection.

Did You know?

U.S. Army glider pilot wings are emblazoned with a capital “G” at their center, a letter which many say also stood for “Guts”.

Specifications

  • Number Built:  153
  • Year Produced:  1943
  • Serial Number:   126
  • Crew: (2) Pilot, Student Pilot
  • Current Pilots:

Dimensions

  • Length:  21 ft. 3 in.
  • Wingspan:  50 ft. 
  • Empty Weight:  475 lbs.
  • Loaded Weight:  875 lbs.
  • Engine: N/A – unpowered
  • Engine Power:  N/A

Performance

  • Cruising Speed:  L/D max 22@55 mph; min sink 3.2 fps@45 mph; 6 fps sink@65 mph
  • Max Speed:  126 mph never exceed speed
  • Range:  dependent on soaring conditions
  • Ceiling: 14,000 ft
  • Rate of Climb:  dependent on soaring conditions

Armament

  • N/A – unarmed

Gallery & Media

Laister-Kauffman TG-4A Training Glider
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