If you were standing in St. Petersburg in the early 1940s, the sky would rarely have been quiet. Formation flying was a daily sight as military aircraft crisscrossed the region, training for a world at war. Nearby airfields—St. Pete-Clearwater, Lakeland, Bartow, and MacDill—buzzed with activity, serving as critical fighter and bomber training grounds. 

One of those aircraft still flies today.

The oldest aircraft based at Albert Whitted Airport is a 1941 Stearman PT-17, now owned by Flying Adventures LLC. Built as the United States prepared to enter World War II, this rugged biplane was part of Boeing’s Stearman production run, which peaked at just over 10,000 aircraft. Known formally as the Kaydet, the Stearman became one of the most important primary training aircraft of the war—teaching thousands of pilots how to fly before they ever saw combat.

This particular Stearman began its life in Langley, Virginia, and later served at Arcadia, Florida, where it trained pilots for both the British Royal Air Force and the U.S. Army Air Forces. When the war ended, its mission changed. Military and civilian logs show it transitioned to civilian ownership on October 12, 1945, marking the start of a long and colorful second life.

Since then, the aircraft has logged miles and memories across the country—from Florida to Delaware to Massachusetts and back again. It has appeared at airshows in Titusville and at the famed Sun ’n Fun in Lakeland, where its unmistakable silhouette draws crowds. Its beautifully worn natural patina has earned admiration even beyond aviation circles, turning heads at vintage car shows. On at least one occasion, it even delivered food to hungry pilots at a Chili Fest in Maryland—arriving, of course, in unmistakable style.

1945 logbook entry documenting the transfer of the aircraft to Arcadia, Florida.

The Return to Florida

The Stearman’s current pilot, Chris Gregory, is a true aviator. In between flying for Allegiant Airlines and banner towing, he met Tony Johnson in 2013. Tony is remembered as a passionate, adventurous, untethered man. He had the great idea to purchase the authentic WWII Stearman using flying tours to justify the purchase. Thus, Flying Adventure LLC was created, providing unforgettable airplane ride experiences. 

Under Chris and Tony’s operation, the plane was based at St. Pete-Clearwater International Airport. They had a hangar and greeted customers. Then, they flew to Albert Whitted Airport, offering tours over beaches, downtown, sailboats, and the Skyway Bridge. However, they had to be based at Albert Whitted to continue their tours. With help from the FBO, Flying Adventures got on the waitlist for a hangar and the plane officially relocated to Albert Whitted in 2015. 

“We wouldn’t do it anywhere else,” Chris admits. It’s good for business. Diners observe from the upstairs patio of the Hangar Restaurant and immediately recognize this biplane. A lot of business happens that way. A man drove two hours just for a 30-minute flight. “This is a bucket-list item for people, so it’s always special.” The aerobatic experience is requested 60% of the time. His customers are committed to the adventure. 

Pilot Chris Gregory with the blue and yellow Stearman PT-17

The Aircraft

Since leaving the military, there have been at least three registered owners, each dutifully maintaining the aircraft’s engine and original design. It has an iconic blue body, yellow wings, and red-striped tail. The prominent 022 painted on the fuselage is part of its military serial number, 41-8022. The “41” confirms this aircraft is 85 years old in 2026. It’s a flying museum representing American aviation and war history. Hundreds of military pilots sat in its seats learning to fly, preparing to enter WWII. Imagine flying a plane that was designed in the 1930s, hand-drawn with human calculations. It was designed simply, to be maintained and operated anywhere and by anyone. 

For new pilots who are only familiar with the modern, sleek design of a C172, a biplane and open canopy sparks curiosity. How does it feel to fly this? Smooth, but slow. This aircraft isn’t the one to fly you across the Atlantic. It convinces you to savor the ride and trains your senses of flying. Chris notes the ability to smell your environment in an open canopy. Citrus while flying inland over orange groves, and, he swears, the scent of French fries cooking on the popular beaches. So now, does this 85-year-old plane come equipped with a G1000? Nope. When asked about advanced avionics, Chris says it is “as simple as it gets.” With all the equipment required for a safe flight, the Stearman’s cockpit still resembles a thing of the past. 

This 1941 Stearman may be the oldest aircraft based at Albert Whitted Airport. Of those in the US that remain airworthy, this special Stearman flies the most per week on average. Few PT-17s have survived and are still flown regularly today.

When this Stearman passes from Chris to the next aviator, its adventures and Albert Whitted Airport will be read as part of its history. 

January 12, 2026

Nisuka Williams