Uploaded July 2026 | Updated September 2026, 3 weeks ago
Art Elser piloted the Cessna O-2 Skymaster as a forward air controller in Vietnam, where they flew low, slow, and exposed. It had two engines, which worked well on the civilian version, but added antennae and rocket pods made aerodynamics worse on the military variant with the same amount of power.
To hear the full interview with Art Elser, check out Episode 76 of the Behind the Wings Podcast at the link in bio or wherever you listen!
Support Wings Over the Rockies Mission of aerospace education and inspiration: wingsmuseum.org/support/donate
Plan your visit: wingsmuseum.org
Behind the Wings Podcast: wingsmuseum.org/resources/podcasts
Art Elser piloted the Cessna O-2 Skymaster as a forward air controller in Vietnam, where they flew low, slow, and exposed. It had two engines, which worked well on the civilian version, but added antennae and rocket pods made aerodynamics worse on the military variant with the same amount of power.
To hear the full interview with Art Elser, check out Episode 76 of the Behind the Wings Podcast at the link in bio or wherever you listen!
Support Wings Over the Rockies Mission of aerospace education and inspiration: wingsmuseum.org/support/donate
Plan your visit: wingsmuseum.org
Behind the Wings Podcast: wingsmuseum.org/resources/podcasts










