Page 29 - March 2023

At Red Lake, 165.41 miles northeast of Winnipeg, Manitoba, CF-BGY’s July 4, 1938, landing did not end well. On touchdown, float strut fittings snapped. When the float swung outward, it remained under the wing and prevented sinking of the aircraft. (Credit: Canada Aviation and Space Museum)
who appreciated 55 mph landings and 167 mph cruise speeds. His stalwart fabric-covered Fairchilds, Fokkers and other aircraft types servicing high-pressure clients in gold mines and native communities functioned adequately and profitably enough. Still, Starratt despaired of ripped fabric surfaces and frequent engine failures. He and his four sons determined the parameters: twin-engine safety,
durable coverings and long-range fuel tanks. “Bring it on!” one company pilot sputtered when told of electric flaps and insulated interiors.
The Model 18 concept satisfied the Starratts, but few of their boreal bush destinations offered airstrips or airports. Skis and seaplane floats needed to be part of the picture. The Beechcraft arrived with a reinforced
MARCH 2023
KING AIR MAGAZINE • 27