Grumman JRF-3 Goose

Grumman · USA · first flew 1937 · transport aircraft

The JRF-3 Goose was a US Navy transport variant of the Grumman G-21 Goose, a twin-engine amphibious flying boat used for utility and search-and-rescue duties.

Recognition (WEFT)

W — Wings	High-mounted, straight
E — Engines	2 × piston, wing-mounted
F — Fuselage	11.7 m fuselage
T — Tail	Conventional

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Twin-engine amphibian flying boat
US Navy JRF variant of Grumman Goose
Retractable wingtip floats and boat hull

High-wing twin with a deep boat hull, retractable wingtip stabilising floats, and two radial engines mounted on the wing leading edge — the Goose's rounded nose and porthole windows are characteristic.

Specifications

The Grumman JRF-3 Goose has a length of 11.7 m (38 ft).
It has a wingspan of 14.9 m (49 ft).
Its maximum speed is 322 km/h (200 mph).
Typical crew: 2 + up to 6 passengers.

Figures are for the representative variant described above; marks differ. See how AircraftIQ sources figures.

History

Grumman designed the G-21 Goose in 1936 as a private amphibian for wealthy sportsmen; the US Navy and Coast Guard quickly adopted it under the JRF designation. The JRF-3 was one of several sub-variants distinguishable mainly by equipment and radio fits.

Variants

The JRF series ran from JRF-1 through JRF-6, with the JRF-5 being the most numerous; variants differed in equipment standards and intended roles from utility transport to search-and-rescue.

Where you'll see it

Served widely with the US Navy, Coast Guard, and allied nations throughout World War II and into the early postwar period; the Goose became a beloved bush and island-hopper aircraft in civilian hands after the war.

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