History of Beechcraft’s first model reveals pioneering achievements

Beech Aircraft Company, later known as Beechcraft, produced some of the world's most notable aircraft including the Beechjet, King Air, Baron, Bonanza, and Model 2000 Starship. The company also designed military aircraft such as King Air variants, AT-6 Trainer aircraft, and T-1 Jayhawk jet for pilot training.

One of the first aircraft produced by Beechcraft was the Model 17 Staggerwing in the early 1930s. This biplane took the industry by storm and solidified Beech Aircraft Company's reputation. The initial design was conceptualized by Ted Wells while at Curtiss-Wright before joining Beech Aircraft Company.

The newly developed Model 17 Staggerwing conducted its maiden flight in November 1932 and was officially introduced in 1933. Initial sales were slow with only 18 units sold that year but picked up significantly by the end of the decade with over 400 units in service.

The operators were typically business executives who used it similarly to how private jets are used today. Nearly 1,000 units were produced throughout its lifetime including military variants utilized by the United States Army Air Forces and US Navy.

The Staggerwing's most notable feature was its staggered wing configuration which maximized visibility for pilots and aimed to reduce drag between wings though this effect was minimal. The airframe combined a steel tube frame with wooden materials to lighten weight while fabric skin reduced drag further.

Powered by a Pratt & Whitney R-985-AN-1 radial engine nicknamed Wasp Junior with over 450 horsepower, it had impressive specifications:

Capacity: Four passengers plus one pilot

Length: 26 feet ten inches

Height: Eight feet

Wingspan: 32 feet

Empty weight: 2,540 pounds

Maximum speed: 184 knots (212 miles per hour)

Cruise speed: 176 knots (202 miles per hour)

Range: 580 nautical miles (670 miles)

Service ceiling: 25,000 feet

The Staggerwing saw various engine upgrades ranging from 225 to 710 horsepower throughout its life. Its military variant was particularly popular during World War II where it served roles from bomber to liaison aircraft across multiple countries' air forces including:

Royal Australian Air Force

Bolivian Air Force

Cuban Army Aviation Corps

Finnish Air Force

Royal New Zealand Air Force

Spanish Republican Air Force

Uruguayan Air Force

Additionally utilized by US Army Air Corps, US Army Air Forces, US Navy and Civil Air Patrol among others.