I've got a family photo from WW2 but am struggling to identify the plane in the background. Can anyone help please?
I was going to agree but the cowl doesn't look right for a Buffalo. It's also missing the Buffalo's spinner but that have been removed. Might be a Fokker D.XXI with the spats removed?
No that's a retractable UC - it does look very Brewster but I agree over the cowling - which is why when and where would help.
It's look very much like a Miles Master III or even possibly a Miles Martinet. Image from the PDF link on this page Miles M.27 Master III
I agree except that the outboard UC struts appear too substantial. Would the OP please give us some contextual info?
Of course, if it is likely to have been taken in the US, then a Buffalo is more likely, without spinner and non tropical clothing. Without a spinner boss, it's likely to be an American operated Buffalo, those supplied for export were fitted with a boss, although the wing leading edge appears to have suffered some damage, so the boss could have been lost or removed for repair.... But if the photo ISN'T from the USA then... It looks closer to a Harvard trainer, but did they have 3 bladed props in WW2? With Buffalo's more likely to be used in the Far East, the attire doesn't look tropical, so, despite the undercarriage issue, the Harvard is more likely a) in terms of more widespread usage and b) non tropical clothing.
On second thoughts, Miles Master II, (Mercury radial engine) has the right height, with head just below boss, a canted undercarriage strut and the hint of a gull (Stuka) wing... as a primary trainer fits with the woodland appearance, clothing and availability, especially as these seem proud to pose with a damaged one... Credit nicks with the idea!
Miles Master was not a primary trainer, it was an advanced trainer which pilots used to transition to operational fighters - and again the UC doesn't fit.
Master III's were fitted with Pratt & Whitney Twin Wasp Junior engines which could explain the Hamilton Standard propeller.
robert-w: If you weren't so occupied with pushing up your post count, and actually answered rather than sniping away, this forum would heave a sigh of relief
Although this is a Master I the undercarriage appears to be very similar to that of the aircraft in the OP's photograph, I agree with Robert - w that until we get more information we will not be able to say for sure. BRITISH MILITARY AIRCRAFT : MILES MASTER I. © IWM (CH 145) IWM Non Commercial License
I'm not trying to be awkward but the strut from the\UC outwarrd in the photo is much more substantial than those in photos of the M Master
Thanks everyone for suggestions and comments. My grandfather was stationed at RAF Upavon (Central Flying School) from March 1941 to March 1944 so that fits with the suggested trainer aircraft I suppose. After that he joined an AMES unit, part of 24 Base Defence Wing, and was in Normandy D+2, eventually setting up the temporary airfield at Longues, B11. I had wondered if the photo was from there but it seems from your responses highly unlikely. Thanks again!