"Kon'nichiwa!", I'm SU! A rare Japanese warbird, one of only 3 Fuji LM-1's known to be flying today!!
My pilot, Olivia Fuller (Liv), @liv2flyforever, and I love flying to airshows, fly-in's and other aviation events along the east coast, advocating general aviation and keeping warbirds like me in the air! Check out our schedule at www.liv2fly.org, follow our adventures @Girl Named SU on instagram, and for more history and specifics on me, visit @TheFujiSU on Facebook.
Development
The Fuji LM-1 is a unique, post-WW2 aircraft that was built for the Japanese Air Self-Defense Force (JASDF). The U.S helped Japan get back on their feet after the war through Beechcraft Corp. licensing Fuji Heavy Industries (parent corp. of Subaru) to build 27 LM-1’s.
Operational History and Design
The Fuji had numerous roles: liaison, trainer, aerial photography, reconnaissance, communications, and cargo. The Fuji's design was based from the T-34-A Mentor with a few differences tailored to fit the aircraft's many roles like installing 4 seats, a yoke, door,
extra jump seat, removable cabin top, adding multiple radios, as well as a small camera door on bottom.
Girl named SU
N8020K is one of just three Fuji LM-1's known to be flying! Based at Shannon Airport in Fredericksburg, VA, this Nikko was restored in 2007 after being grounded in Georgetown, DE since its service in Japan 30 years prior. Our Fuji, called SU, is a local treasure and icon as she serves an integral role in the endeavor to spread the joys of General Aviation.
General Specs
Registration: N8020K
Year Built: 1955
LM-1's Registered: 7
LM-1's build: 27
Number Flying: 3
Nickname: Nikko
Aircraft
Engine: 6 cylinder Continental O-470
HP: 225hp
Gross Weight: 3,530 lbs
Useful Load: 1,319 lbs
Fuel Capacity: 60 lbs
Fuel Burn: 12 gallons per hour @145kts
Performance
Max Cruise: 160mph (140kts)
Max Speed: 185mph (160kts)
Rate of Climb: 1000fpm
Service Ceiling: 16,000ft.
Max Range: 725 nm (5 hrs.)
G tolerance: +6 -4