Daron Worldwide Beech Aircraft G-17 Staggerwing Model Airplane

The Beechcraft Model 17 was the first aircraft produced by Beech Aircraft. A biplane with an atypical backward stagger (the upper wing inversely staggered behind the lower) it was a gamble for the company. Produced during the Great Depression the expensive aircraft was designed as a high speed comfortable business plane. The aircraft is more popularly known as the Staggerwing and first flew on November 4 1932. During its time it was considered to be the premier executive aircraft setting the standard for private passenger airplanes for many years to come. The Staggerwing s unusual wing configuration and unique shape resulted in a design that maximized the pilot s visibility while minimizing the aircraft s tendency to stall. Its retractable conventional landing gear which was uncommon at that time coupled with streamlining light weight and radial engines helped it perform significantly better than other biplane designs. The luxurious cabin could hold up to five passengers. Sa