Grumman G-21 Goose
Grumman · United States · first flew 1937 · transport aircraft
The Grumman G-21 Goose is Grumman's compact twin-engined amphibian, an elegant 1930s air-yacht turned wartime utility workhorse and enduring bush aircraft.
Recognition (WEFT)
| W — Wings | High-mounted, straight |
|---|---|
| E — Engines | 2 × piston, wing-mounted |
| F — Fuselage | Compact high wing with two radials close to the fuselage |
| T — Tail | Conventional |
WEFT is AircraftIQ's four-point recognition method — how it works.
Spot it by:
- Compact high wing with two radials close to the fuselage
- Deep, rounded boat hull with a high-set forward cockpit
- Small underslung wingtip floats and retractable main wheels
Identify it by its small size, twin close-set radials on a high wing, deep stubby boat hull and high forward cockpit. This 'miniature flying boat' look distinguishes it from larger patrol boats like the Catalina.
Specifications
- The Grumman G-21 Goose has a length of 11.73 m (38 ft).
- It has a wingspan of 14.94 m (49 ft).
- Its maximum speed is 323 km/h (201 mph).
- Typical crew: 2-3.
Figures are for the representative variant described above; marks differ. See how AircraftIQ sources figures.
History
Originally a luxury 'air yacht' for wealthy clients, the Goose first flew in 1937 and became a versatile military and bush amphibian, with about 345 built. It served widely in wartime transport, patrol and rescue roles before long civil careers in coastal and island operations.
Variants
The G-21A was the main increased-weight production model, while military versions were the US Navy JRF series and Army OA-9 and OA-13. McKinnon Enterprises later produced turboprop conversions, including the G-21G Turbo Goose with PT6A engines.
Where you'll see it
The Goose was supplied under Lend-Lease to the Fleet Air Arm and RAF as the Goose Mk I and Mk IA for communications and training. Honestly, no notable Goose is confirmed preserved in a UK museum, though examples survive elsewhere, including at the Smithsonian.
Related aircraft
- F4F Wildcat
- Grumman JRF-3 Goose
- Grumman F3F-3
- Grumman XJ3F-1
- Barkley-Grow T8P-1
- Beechcraft 18
- Beechcraft JRB-4 Voyager
- Blohm & Voss BV 138
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