[2] The Hispano-Suiza 8 (known as the "Hisso")[6] was a highly-prized engine in its day,[7] but very expensive to purchase[4][7] and even moreso to operate and maintain.
[10] The standard Model 3000 was fitted with large aerodynamic balances on its upper ailerons;[2][4] Colloquially known as "elephant ears", these were a distinguishing feature of this family of Travel Air biplanes.
[11] Some Model 3000s, however, were fitted with Travel Air's "speed wing",[2][12] which had a shorter span, thinner profile, and frise ailerons.
[14] In 1928 and 1929, Louise Thaden set three women's aeronautical world records in Travel Air biplanes, at least two of which were set flying the Model 3000,[15][16] becoming the first and only pilot to hold simultaneously the women's altitude, airspreed, and solo endurance records.
[17] She set the altitude record at Oakland, California[18] in Model 3000 construction number 515, registration 5426[2][b] on December 7, 1928, reaching 20,260 feet (6,180 m).
[2] A Model 3000 (construction number 321, previously registered NC3947)[23] is preserved at the Historic Aircraft Restoration Museum in Maryland Heights, Missouri.