The stall speed of the Piper J-3 Cub, specifically when carrying only the pilot, was 38 mph. This speed is a critical performance characteristic for any aircraft, indicating the minimum air speed required for the wings to generate sufficient lift to maintain controlled flight.
Understanding Stall Speed
Stall speed refers to the minimum speed at which an aircraft can maintain adequate lift. If an aircraft's airspeed drops below this critical point, the wings can no longer generate enough lift to counteract gravity, leading to a loss of altitude or control, known as a stall. For the light and forgiving J-3 Cub, a stall speed of 38 mph meant it could fly relatively slowly, making it well-suited for short field operations, training, and leisurely flights.
Key Performance Characteristics of the J-3 Cub
Beyond its low stall speed, the Piper J-3 Cub was renowned for its simplicity, robustness, and distinctive Cub Yellow color. Much like the Model T revolutionized ground transportation, the J-3 Cub made aviation accessible and practical for many. Its straightforward design and predictable handling made it an ideal primary trainer and a popular personal aircraft.
To provide a comprehensive understanding of its capabilities, here are some key performance specifications for the J-3 Cub when carrying only the pilot:
J-3 Cub Performance Specifications
| Characteristic | Value |
|---|---|
| Stall Speed | 38 mph |
| Top Speed | 85 mph |
| Cruise Speed | 75 mph |
| Service Ceiling | 12,000 ft |
| Endurance | 3 hours |
| Range | 225 miles |
These specifications highlight the J-3 Cub's balanced performance, favoring low-speed controllability and ease of operation over raw speed, which contributed significantly to its enduring legacy in aviation.
