Brown-Young BY-1
Origins of the Columbia Aircraft Co.
In the mid-1930s, Willis C. Brown and Richard Young established the Columbia Aircraft Co. in Tulsa, Oklahoma. This venture’s sole project was the development of a light, multi-purpose aircraft, which became known as the Brown-Young BY-1. It was also referred to as the Columbia BY-1 or Columbia Model 2.
Design and Specifications
The BY-1 was designed as a four-seat, strut-braced sesquiplane featuring an all-metal fuselage. Powering this aircraft was a robust seven-cylinder Jacobs L-4 radial engine, capable of producing 225 hp (168 kW), coupled with a two-bladed propeller.
Brief Operational History
Only a single example of the aircraft, bearing the registration NX13987, was ever built in 1936. Its operational life was brief; by the early stages of World War II, the BY-1 was disassembled for parts at White Rock Airport in Dallas, Texas, marking an early end to its short history.
Technical Specifications
| Modification | BY-1 |
| Engine type | 1 Piston engine Jacobs L-4 |
| Power, hp | 1 x 225 |
| Crew, crew members | 1 |
| Payload | 3 passengers |
Image and diagram gallery of the Brown-Young BY-1
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ArchivoAéreo Editorial Team
A group of aviation researchers and enthusiasts dedicated to documenting and preserving global aeronautical history. All articles are reviewed to ensure historical accuracy.
Sources & Accuracy
The information presented in this technical sheet has been compiled from declassified flight manuals, historical archives, and specialized literature. While we strive for maximum accuracy, some performance data may vary depending on the specific variant or operational conditions.