Around160 L-27A light utility transports were ordered for the USAF in 1957, followed by 30 of the more powerful L-27B in 1960. The "Blue Canoe" as it became known was redesignated as U-3 in 1962

The U-3A is the military variant of the civilian Cessna Model 310. Markings: 100th Strategic Reconnaissance Wing, Davis-Monthan AFB, 1974

On display at the wonderful Pima Air & Space Museum. I had such a super time meandering through and photographing all these beautiful old aircraft. Although the large exhibits probably hog all the attention from the public passing through, there are many, many other smaller interesting aircraft to be seen as well.