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Beechcraft S18D

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Serial Number: 177

Registration: CF-BKN

Markings: Prairie Airways Ltd., Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan, Canada, 1938


Designed in the late 1930s as a stable mate of the famous Beech Staggerwing the Model 18 was intended to combine comfort and safety with the ability to operate from small airfields at low cost. The prototype first flew in January 1937. Initially considered underpowered when compared to the similar Lockheed Electra Junior. The Model S18D introduced more powerful Jacobs L-6 engines which improved the performance. The S18D was capable of being flown from skis or floats as well as from conventional landing gear. During World War II the Allies used large numbers of modified Model 18s as trainers.

Technical Specifications
Wingspan 47 ft 7 in
Length 33 ft 11.5 in
Height 9 ft 2.5 in
Weight 8,750 lbs (loaded)
Maximum Speed 230 mph
Service Ceiling 20,500 ft
Range 750 miles
Engines 2 Jacobs L-6 radials with 330 horsepower each
Crew 2


Location: Hangar 1 North