Curtiss P-40E Kittyhawk

The Curtiss P-40 was an American single-engine, single-seat, all-metal fighter and ground attack aircraft that first flew in 1938. It was used in great numbers in World War II. The P-40 design was a modification of the previous P-36; this reduced development time and enabled a rapid entry into production and operational service. When production of the P-40 ceased in November 1944, 13,738 had been built. They were used by the air forces of 28 nations and remained in front line service until the end of the war.

The current display aircraft, NZ3039 (P-40E c/n20218, ex 41-36385, EV131) is a composite rebuild, now on static display at Motat after restoration at Pacific Aircraft Ltd. While acknowledged to be a composite, reports of how much of the airframe originated with NZ3039 vary.

Details of the original Kittyhawk aircraft displayed at MOTAT can be found under Ex Collection Aircraft.

Further information can be found on the MOTAT website at:
http://www.motat.org.nz/collections/AviationCollection/Kittyhawk.htm

Photos
- aircraft on display in the main hanger 2007 (Richard Wesley)