Beechcraft Staggerwing Model 17
Beechcraft · United States · first flew 1932 · light aircraft
The Beechcraft Model 17 Staggerwing is a classic American biplane distinguished by its negative stagger — the lower wing is set forward of the upper — which gave it exceptional performance for its era. It was designed for wealthy private owners and corporate operators seeking speed and comfort.
Recognition (WEFT)
| W — Wings | Low-mounted, tapered |
|---|---|
| E — Engines | 1 × piston, nose-mounted |
| F — Fuselage | 7.67 m fuselage |
| T — Tail | Conventional |
WEFT is AircraftIQ's four-point recognition method — how it works.
Spot it by:
- Negative stagger biplane — lower wing set forward of upper
- Radial engine in a streamlined NACA cowling
- Fixed or retractable undercarriage with characteristic wheel spats
The negative-stagger biplane configuration is unique and immediately distinctive; the round radial engine cowling, elliptical wing tips, and retractable undercarriage with spats complete the profile.
Specifications
- The Beechcraft Staggerwing Model 17 has a length of 7.67 m (25 ft).
- It has a wingspan of 9.75 m (32 ft).
- Its maximum speed is 341 km/h (212 mph).
- Typical crew: 1 pilot + 4 passengers.
Figures are for the representative variant described above; marks differ. See how AircraftIQ sources figures.
History
Walter Beech founded Beech Aircraft Corporation specifically to build the Model 17, which first flew in November 1932. Early models used a Wright R-975 radial engine, and progressive refinements produced increasingly powerful variants through the 1930s and 1940s. The US military used it as the UC-43 Traveler during World War II.
Variants
Designations changed with engine type; the B17 used a 285 hp Jacobs engine while the D17S with a 450 hp Pratt & Whitney Wasp Junior was the fastest production variant, reaching over 350 km/h.
Where you'll see it
Used by wealthy private owners, corporations, and the USAAF/USN during WWII; today surviving examples are prized by warbird collectors worldwide and regularly appear at airshows.
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