Beechcraft Model 18
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Beechcraft Model 18 | |
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General information | |
Manufacturer | Beechcraft |
Designer | |
History | |
Manufactured | 1937–1970 |
Introduction date | 1937 |
Retired | 1970s (military service) |
The Beechcraft Model 18 (or "Twin Beech") is a twin-engined, low-wing, tailwheel light aircraft manufactured by Beechcraft from 1937 to 1970. It was designed by Walter H. Beech and became one of the most versatile and widely used aircraft in history.
Design and Development[edit | edit source]
The Beechcraft Model 18 was developed in the mid-1930s as a small, twin-engine transport aircraft. It featured a low-wing design, all-metal construction, and a conventional tailwheel landing gear. The aircraft was powered by two Pratt & Whitney R-985 Wasp Junior radial engines, each producing 450 horsepower.
Operational History[edit | edit source]
The Model 18 saw extensive use during World War II, serving in various roles such as light transport, cargo, and training. The United States Army Air Forces designated it as the Beechcraft C-45 Expeditor, while the United States Navy used it under the designation Beechcraft SNB. The aircraft was also used by the Royal Canadian Air Force and other allied air forces.
After the war, the Model 18 continued to be popular in civilian aviation. It was used for executive transport, air ambulance, aerial photography, and even as a small airliner. The aircraft's versatility and reliability made it a favorite among pilots and operators.
Variants[edit | edit source]
Several variants of the Beechcraft Model 18 were produced, including:
- Beechcraft AT-11 Kansan: A bombing and gunnery trainer used by the United States Army Air Forces.
- Beechcraft C-45 Expeditor: A military transport and utility aircraft.
- Beechcraft SNB: The United States Navy's designation for the Model 18.
Specifications (Beechcraft Model 18)[edit | edit source]
General characteristics
- Crew: 2
- Capacity: 6-11 passengersTemplate:Aircraft specs/lengthTemplate:Aircraft specs/lengthTemplate:Aircraft specs/lengthTemplate:Aircraft specs/lengthTemplate:Aircraft specs/lengthTemplate:Aircraft specs/lengthTemplate:Aircraft specs/lengthTemplate:Aircraft specs/lengthTemplate:Aircraft specs/lengthTemplate:Aircraft specs/convertTemplate:Aircraft specs/convertTemplate:Aircraft specs/convertTemplate:Aircraft specs/convertTemplate:Aircraft specs/convertTemplate:Aircraft specs/convertTemplate:Aircraft specs/convertTemplate:Aircraft specs/engTemplate:Aircraft specs/engTemplate:Aircraft specs/engTemplate:Aircraft specs/lengthTemplate:Aircraft specs/convertTemplate:Aircraft specs/length
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See Also[edit | edit source]
- Beechcraft
- Light aircraft
- Pratt & Whitney R-985 Wasp Junior
- United States Army Air Forces
- United States Navy
- Royal Canadian Air Force
References[edit | edit source]
External Links[edit | edit source]
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