Piper L4 „Grasshopper“

All L-4 models, as well as similar tandem-cockpit accommodation aircraft from Aeronca and Taylorcraft, were collectively nicknamed “Grasshoppers”, though the L-4 was almost universally referred to by its civilian designation of Cub.
Carrying only the pilot and no passenger, the L-4 has a top speed of 85 mph (137 km/h), a cruise speed of 75 mph (121 km/h), a service ceiling of 12,000 ft (3,658 m) and a stall speed of 38 mph (61 km/h).
The L-4 was used extensively in World War II for reconnaissance, transporting supplies, artillery spotting duties, and medical evacuation of wounded soldiers. The L-4’s slow cruising speed and low-level manoeuvrability made it an ideal observation platform. For these operations the pilot generally carried both an observer/radio operator and a 25-pound communications radio, a load that often exceeded the plane’s specified weight capacity.
After the war, many L-4s were sold as surplus, but a considerable number were retained in service. L-4s sold as surplus in the U.S. were re-designated as J-3s, but often retained their wartime glazing and paint.