Republic RC-3 Seabee
Republic Aviation Corporation · United States · first flew 1944 · light aircraft
The Republic RC-3 Seabee was an American four-seat amphibious light aircraft first flown in 1944, featuring a boat hull, retractable undercarriage, and a pusher engine mounted above the fuselage. Designed by Republic Aviation to capture the expected post-war private aviation boom, it remains a beloved classic amphibian.
Recognition (WEFT)
| W — Wings | High-mounted, tapered |
|---|---|
| E — Engines | 1 × piston, fuselage-mounted |
| F — Fuselage | 8.51 m fuselage |
| T — Tail | Conventional |
WEFT is AircraftIQ's four-point recognition method — how it works.
Spot it by:
- American four-seat amphibian with pusher engine above hull
- Boat hull with retractable undercarriage for land and water operation
- Engine mounted above and behind the cabin in pusher configuration
Unmistakable due to its pusher engine above a boat hull, high-wing monoplane layout, and retractable gear — the combination of features is unique among post-war American amphibians.
Specifications
- The Republic RC-3 Seabee has a length of 8.51 m (28 ft).
- It has a wingspan of 11.48 m (38 ft).
- Its maximum speed is 193 km/h (120 mph).
- Typical crew: 1 + 3 passengers.
Figures are for the representative variant described above; marks differ. See how AircraftIQ sources figures.
History
Designed by Percival Hopkins Spencer and produced by Republic Aviation from 1945 to 1947, the Seabee sold over 1,000 units before production ceased due to the collapse of the anticipated post-war civil aviation market. Many examples survive and fly today.
Variants
The production Seabee was largely a single model; engine upgrades and modifications have been applied by owners over the decades.
Where you'll see it
Used extensively by private owners across the United States and Canada for lake flying and coastal operations; a significant number remain airworthy in private hands.
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