The Beechcraft Model 17 “Staggerwing” is unquestionably a prime example of vintage beauty. Its deco classic design combines a balance between strength and grace.
First hitting the market in 1932, the Beechcraft Model 17 "Staggerwing" was slow to catch on, but as the economy slowly improved after the Great Depression, and after Beech began installing larger engines, the popularity of the "Staggerwing" became legendary.
Despite most designers calling Walter Beech and Ted Wells foolhardy for their design, the Staggerwing would set many speed records and would, by the mid-thirties, actually out perform the best military aircraft of that time.
Originally selling for $14,000 to $18,000, restored models today will command $175,000 to $200,000 a copy. And even though intended as a business executive (civilian) aircraft, a few did see military duty in World War II, and a few were even used as light bombers in the Spanish Civil War.
All in all, 781 Beechcraft "Staggerwings" were built and sold. According to some sources there are only five of these beautiful birds left airworthy today.
This alternate view aircraft is fairly well set up for scale flying. Fly with the rate switch in the "high" position. Lands well with minimal or no flaps. A very nice flying airplane.
First hitting the market in 1932, the Beechcraft Model 17 "Staggerwing" was slow to catch on, but as the economy slowly improved after the Great Depression, and after Beech began installing larger engines, the popularity of the "Staggerwing" became legendary.
Despite most designers calling Walter Beech and Ted Wells foolhardy for their design, the Staggerwing would set many speed records and would, by the mid-thirties, actually out perform the best military aircraft of that time.
Originally selling for $14,000 to $18,000, restored models today will command $175,000 to $200,000 a copy. And even though intended as a business executive (civilian) aircraft, a few did see military duty in World War II, and a few were even used as light bombers in the Spanish Civil War.
All in all, 781 Beechcraft "Staggerwings" were built and sold. According to some sources there are only five of these beautiful birds left airworthy today.
This alternate view aircraft is fairly well set up for scale flying. Fly with the rate switch in the "high" position. Lands well with minimal or no flaps. A very nice flying airplane.
