There’s something undeniably captivating about the 1960s—a time when you could pull up to an airport in a Cadillac with sweeping fins and board a sleek, converted WWII bomber turned VIP transport. The On Mark Marksman, a luxury variant of the rugged A/B-26, represents this golden age in the evoluation of executive aviation. These aircraft symbolize a blend of military heritage and mid-century style, offering a glimpse into a time when engineering innovation and elegance went hand in hand. For Logue Aviation, these aircraft are more than relics—they’re a testament to aviation’s enduring appeal.
From Bomber to Business Jet: The On Mark Marksman
The On Mark Marksman began its life as a WWII A/B-26 Invader, a low-level ground attack bomber. After the war, On Mark Engineering, based in Van Nuys, California, saw the potential to transform these proven machines into high-performance executive aircraft. The result was the Marksman—a pressurized, long-range plane that offered a unique combination of speed, range, and comfort for business travelers.
On Mark’s work on these aircraft was groundbreaking for its time. By 1961, the company had refined its process, replacing the B-26’s utilitarian interior with a luxurious cabin and upgrading the aircraft with a new nose section for radar and baggage. The fuselage was modified to eliminate the wing spar running through the cabin, creating a more spacious interior. With these changes, the Marksman became a sought-after aircraft for executives who needed both the performance of a bomber and the comfort of a business jet.
Performance and Style: A Perfect Balance
The Marksman’s performance was impressive, especially for an aircraft that began as a military machine. With a takeoff gross weight of 35,000 pounds, the Marksman could reach cruising altitudes of over 20,000 feet in minutes, all while maintaining smooth handling and impressive stability. Configurations varied, but at its peak, the aircraft could cruise at speeds of up to 365 mph with a range of 2,500 miles—perfect for cross-country business trips.
Despite its origins as a bomber, the Marksman was more than capable of serving the needs of executive clients. It boasted a redesigned cockpit, spacious cabin with large windows, and even luxury features like radar screens for passengers and custom interiors tailored to the buyer’s specifications. It was a true reflection of the mid-century aesthetic—sleek, stylish, and engineered with precision.
Logue Aviation – Preserving a Legacy
The story of the On Mark Marksman is more than just a piece of aviation history—it’s a reminder of what’s possible when innovation and craftsmanship come together. At Logue Aviation, this legacy is honored through a commitment to operating with timeless values for aircraft maintenance in California. With deep roots in aviation history, Logue Aviation understands the value of these classic planes and the stories they carry.
Under the leadership of James Logue, the company has become known for its meticulous approach to aircraft maintenance, management, and consulting. Whether it’s helping a client keep an aircraft airworthy or guiding the purchase of a jet, Logue Aviation’s expertise is built on a respect for the industry’s rich past and an eye toward its future.
A Timeless Connection to Aviation’s Golden Age
The On Mark Marksman represents an era when aviation was more than just a mode of transport—it was a statement of style and innovation. Driving up in a Cadillac with fins to board your converted bomber isn’t just a scene from the past—it’s a symbol of what made that era special. At Logue Aviation, the spirit of that time lives on, helping clients focus on the joy of aviation not the stress and complexities of aircraft maintenance.
For those who share a love of aviation’s rich history and the thrill of flight, the legacy of the On Mark Marksman—and the passion it represents—continues to inspire.