Welcome to IBDA!

The concept for an organization dedicated to the Cessna L-19/O-1 Bird Dog originated with Mr. Phil Phillips of Albuquerque, New Mexico. Phil had served as a U.S. Army Aviator in Vietnam and had flown numerous combat missions in the Birddog. Once back in the States and beginning a career in the private sector, he thought affectionately about the humble little warbird from Cessna that had served him so well. Unfortunately, he was also frustrated. There was very little printed material about this noteworthy airplane and worse yet there was not a single flyable example anywhere near his hometown that would allow him to borrow a few minutes of “cockpit time” to reacquaint himself with his old mount. He set about to correct both problems.

In 1998 the IBDA became even more well known world-wide with the initiation of a new website. With the site the IBDA was able to sign up new members and keep track of Birddogs that were for sale, bought, and restored to flyable condition. Parts suppliers were located and members notified of those sources. The organization was serving its members in a way not possible before the website was created.

In 2000, the IBDA, with the assistance of Cessna and the U.S. Air Force, held its first “Birddog Reunion” in Wichita, Kansas to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the aircraft. There were 46 Birddogs and over 250 people in attendance at that first reunion which turned out to be a premier event for all.

As a member of the International Birddog Association, you’ll be supporting the preservation and history of the Birddog. You’ll have special access to the members’ area of the website containing resources such as hard to find technical and authenticity information, history, Birddog photos, and much more. You’ll be able to network with Birddog pilots, owners, and enthusiasts, from all over the world.

Joining the IBDA is easy, and the yearly dues are very reasonable at only $30.

To join as a new member, click here.  For renewing members, click here. For more information about IBDA membership, contact Troy Cobb, Membership Director. You may send him a message via the “Contact Us” page. Thank you for your interest. We look forward to your membership in the IBDA as a fellow Birddog enthusiast.