Bell Aircraft Corporation P-63 Kingcobra (Excalibur III/Racer)

27 Feb 2026 · © Unknown

This racing aircraft is one of the most historically significant postwar racers, invaluable for its association with record-breaking pilot Jackie Cochran.

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Aircraft

P-63 Kingcobra (Excalibur III/Racer) BELL P-63C-1-BE

Red/White Race Livery 'Excalibur III'

NR79Y

Registration

Manufacturer

Bell Aircraft Corporation

Insights

Aviation History

Notably, this is Jackie Cochran's 'Excalibur III', a Bell P-63C Kingcobra heavily modified for postwar air racing and record-setting. Jackie Cochran flew this to become the first woman to break the sound barrier and set multiple records.

Fleet Rarity

One-off custom air racer, preserved at Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum.

Record Flights

Set a women's speed record across the United States and broke the sound barrier with this aircraft.

Safety & Events

Most famous as the aircraft in which Jackie Cochran set several aviation records.

Future Outlook

Preserved in the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum (Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center).

Specifications

Allison V-1710

Engine

11.7 meters

Wingspan

9.75 meters

Length

725 km (race-modified version)

Range

610 km/h (race-modified)

Speed

Single pilot (race configuration)

Capacity

4105 kg

MTOW

3.4 meters

Height

Confidence is high due to unique markings and context, but fine museum details may obscure minor airframe specifics.