1956 De Havilland Super Chipmunk N12BH: Vintage Aerobatic Performance in Excellent Condition

The 1956 De Havilland DHC-1B-2-S3 Super Chipmunk is an iconic aircraft that blends classic British design with upgraded American performance. Known for its robust airframe, balanced flight characteristics, and timeless aesthetics, the Super Chipmunk remains a sought-after taildragger for aerobatic pilots and vintage aircraft collectors alike. The upcoming auction of N12BH, a well-maintained Super Chipmunk based in Bayport, New York, presents an excellent opportunity to own a high-performance aircraft in exceptional condition.

A Brief History of the De Havilland Chipmunk

The original Chipmunk, officially known as the De Havilland DHC-1, was developed in Canada shortly after World War II. Designed as a primary trainer to replace the aging de Havilland Tiger Moth biplanes, the Chipmunk first flew in 1946. It featured a low-wing monoplane layout with tandem seating and a tailwheel undercarriage.

De Havilland Aircraft of Canada Limited aimed to offer military trainers a more modern, enclosed-cockpit experience while retaining forgiving flight characteristics. Its early success with the Royal Canadian Air Force quickly drew attention from other militaries, including the Royal Air Force, which adopted it in large numbers.

Over the years, more than 1,200 Chipmunks were produced across Canada and the United Kingdom. Many went on to serve as civilian trainers, aerobatic aircraft, and sport flyers. A number of aircraft were later heavily modified and re-engined in the United States to become what are now known as “Super Chipmunks.”

The Super Chipmunk: A Civilian Evolution

The term “Super Chipmunk” typically refers to modified Chipmunks with more powerful engines, constant-speed propellers, smoke systems, and other performance upgrades. These changes transformed the Chipmunk from a military trainer into a competitive aerobatic platform.

While the original de Havilland design included the four-cylinder Gipsy Major engine, Super Chipmunks are often fitted with Lycoming six-cylinder powerplants like the IO-540, producing significantly more horsepower. This upgrade enhances climb performance, cruise speed, and overall aerobatic capability.

Famous aviators such as Art Scholl popularized the Super Chipmunk in airshow circuits, cementing its status as an icon of post-war aviation. These aircraft became known not only for their agility and charisma but also for their rugged airframes that could withstand high G-loads.

Why N12BH Stands Out: Excellent Condition and Performance

N12BH is a prime example of a 1956 De Havilland DHC-1B-2-S3 Super Chipmunk. It has been upgraded for performance, maintained to high standards, and stored properly throughout its life. Always hangared, this aircraft will be sold with a fresh condition inspection, giving the next owner confidence in its mechanical reliability and airworthiness.

With a back seat designed for added room and comfort, this Chipmunk is well-suited for enjoyable flight experiences, both solo and dual. Whether you’re flying for fun, practicing aerobatics, or showcasing it at fly-ins, N12BH delivers dependable performance wrapped in classic vintage style.

Airframe

This aircraft’s airframe reflects over six decades of design legacy, now enhanced by modern touches. N12BH, serial number 157-195, has a total time of 2,600 hours. That number speaks to its active but well-managed life, especially for an aerobatic platform.

The airframe is corrosion-free and has no known flaws. Gaps or missing logbooks are limited to records before 1985, which is not uncommon for aircraft of this era. Since 1985, the logbooks have been carefully preserved, providing a clear and traceable maintenance history.

Fuel capacity stands at 32 gallons, which is adequate for cross-country flights or extended practice sessions. The aircraft’s stall speed is approximately 40 knots, while cruise speed ranges between 140 and 150 knots—excellent performance for a taildragger of this vintage and class. A useful load of 347 pounds offers practical flexibility for solo or dual-seat operation with fuel and gear.

Engine

N12BH is equipped with the Lycoming IO-540-D4A5, a fuel-injected six-cylinder engine producing 260 horsepower. This engine is a well-regarded workhorse across the general aviation and aerobatic communities, known for reliability and sustained performance.

The engine, serial number L-1642-48, has 440 hours since major overhaul (SMOH). The overhaul was completed on October 22, 1993, at the Textron Lycoming Service Center in Williamsport, Pennsylvania. Despite the date, the relatively low hours indicate light use and careful operation.

The IO-540’s torque and responsiveness give the Super Chipmunk remarkable vertical performance and aerobatic potential. Whether used for loops, rolls, or simple cross-country cruising, this engine delivers consistent power with smooth operation.

Propeller

Paired with the powerful Lycoming engine is a Hartzell HC-C2YR-4CF constant-speed, two-blade aluminum propeller. The blade model number is FC8477, and the individual blade serial numbers are J72883 and J72884.

This propeller has 230 hours since propeller overhaul (SPOH), which was performed on June 29, 2005, by Tiffin Aire, Inc.—a reputable propeller overhaul facility. The constant-speed configuration allows the pilot to optimize performance across a range of power settings, enhancing both efficiency and maneuverability.

In combination with the IO-540 engine, the Hartzell prop helps transform this aircraft into a fully capable aerobatic machine.

Avionics

Rear Seat

The avionics suite in the rear seat is well-equipped for basic navigation and situational awareness. It includes:

• BendixKing KX 155 TSO NAV/COM
  
• BendixKing KT 76A transponder
  
• Apollo GPS II Morrow
  
• BendixKing KI-208 VOR/LOC
  
• Heading indicator
  
• Clock
  
• uAvionix TailBeacon for ADS-B Out compliance
  

While the aircraft is not certified for IFR flight, the rear seat avionics provide the tools necessary for VFR cross-country flying and airspace compliance.

Front Seat

The front seat is equipped with traditional flight instruments including:

• Airspeed Indicator
  
• Altimeter
  
• Turn Coordinator
  
• Tachometer
  
• G-Meter
  
• Manifold Pressure / Fuel Flow Gauge
  
• Oil Pressure / Oil Temperature Gauge
  
• Compass
  

This setup supports aerobatic maneuvers and standard VFR flying, giving the front-seat pilot essential performance feedback during every flight phase.

Exterior

The aircraft’s exterior features a striking red, white, and blue Americana paint scheme that complements its heritage and presence on the ramp. Chipmunk decals on the cowling add a personal and nostalgic touch.

The finish reflects consistent care and storage, having always been kept in a hangar. There is no visible corrosion, and the aircraft presents well both up close and from a distance.

Interior

Inside, the cabin is finished in a functional and stylish combination of gray and black, with red seat upholstery. The tandem seating configuration retains the classic Chipmunk layout but is enhanced by the back seat’s added room and comfort.

The interior is clean, uncluttered, and comfortable, making it ideal for extended flying or giving rides to friends and fellow aviation enthusiasts.

Additional Features

N12BH comes with a number of performance and safety-enhancing features:

• Exhaust and wing-mounted smoke systems, ideal for airshows and aerobatic demonstrations
  
• A 14-gallon auxiliary tank behind the firewall, usable for smoke oil or additional fuel
  
• Cleveland brakes, a common and reliable upgrade from original braking systems
  
• ADS-B Out via uAvionix TailBeacon
  
• No known corrosion or airframe flaws
  
• No known incidents, with full details available in the online auction documents
  

Tachometers were replaced at 2152.0 and again at 188.4, and all changes are clearly documented.

De Havilland Legacy

De Havilland has a long and influential history in global aviation. Originally founded in 1920 in the United Kingdom, the company developed some of the most recognizable aircraft of the 20th century—including the Tiger Moth, Mosquito, Comet, and the Chipmunk.

The Chipmunk was particularly significant because it marked a transition in aviation training—combining the gentle flight characteristics of the biplane era with the improved visibility, enclosed cockpit, and all-metal construction of post-war design philosophies.

Even decades after production ceased, the de Havilland Chipmunk continues to fly in civilian hands around the world. The aircraft’s solid construction, predictable handling, and unique look have made it a favorite among pilots who appreciate heritage and performance in equal measure.

Uses and Market Appeal

Super Chipmunks like N12BH are used today in a variety of roles:

• Aerobatic performance
  
• Warbird fly-ins and classic aircraft shows
  
• Scenic VFR flying
  
• Flight experience rides
  
• Hangar collectibles for aviation enthusiasts
  

With its upgraded engine and propeller, along with a smoke system and appealing paint scheme, N12BH is well-suited for weekend airshows or spirited local flights. At the same time, it remains accessible and flyable for the average tailwheel-rated pilot.

Auction Details

This outstanding 1956 De Havilland Super Chipmunk, N12BH, will be offered for sale via Airspace Auctions from:

• Auction Start: May 7, 2025
  
• Auction End: May 14, 2025, at 12:00 p.m. (Central Time)
  

Location: Bayport, New York
Registration Number: N12BH
Make: DEHAVILLAND
Model: DHC-1B-2-S3
Year: 1956
Seats: 2

Auction Terms

• Buyer’s Premium: 6%
  
• Required Deposit to Bid: $3,000
  
• Condition: Will be delivered with a fresh condition inspection

Final Thoughts

The 1956 De Havilland Super Chipmunk N12BH is more than just a nostalgic taildragger—it’s a fully functional, aerobatics-ready, well-preserved example of post-war aviation excellence. With its powerful Lycoming engine, constant-speed propeller, modern avionics, and smoke system, it offers outstanding value and performance wrapped in vintage appeal.

This aircraft has been meticulously cared for, always hangared, and will be delivered with a fresh condition inspection. Whether you’re a serious collector, an aerobatic pilot, or simply someone who values quality, heritage, and craftsmanship, this Super Chipmunk is an investment in both history and fun.

Specifications and/or descriptions are provided as introductory information only and do not constitute representations or warranties. Verification of specifications remain the sole responsibility of purchaser.