The C-45H Beech Twin Model 18 served as a trainer and utility aircraft for the U.S. Navy, U.S. Army, and Royal Air Force. Built by Beech Aircraft Corp. of Wichita, Kansas, it first flew on 15 January, 1937. Produced from 1937 to 1970 in 32 variations, more than 9,000 were built. It had a maximum speed of 225 mph and a cruise speed of 204 mph. Powered by 2 Pratt and Whitney Wasp Junior SB radial engines of 400 hp each, it carried a crew of 2 pilots and could accommodate 8 passengers, with seats removable for cargo. Its range was approximately 630 miles and its ceiling was 24,000 feet.