Beechcraft Model 18

Beech 18 - Little Gransden 2019

Beech18C-FSFHonFloats

Beechcraft AT-11 out over the West Texas prairies (00910460 103)

Beech 18h

Beech18 on floats

Beechcraft E18S 3-view line drawing

The Beechcraft Model 18 (or "Twin Beech", as it is also known) is a twin-engined low-wing tailwheel light aircraft that was manufactured by Beechcraft from 1937 to 1970. It is one of the most widely used light aircraft in the world, with over 9,000 units built. The Model 18 has been used in various roles, including as a passenger aircraft, cargo aircraft, and military aircraft.

Design and Development

The Beechcraft Model 18 was designed by Walter H. Beech and Ted A. Wells as a smaller, more affordable alternative to the larger Beechcraft Model 17 Staggerwing. The aircraft features a conventional landing gear configuration, with a tailwheel and two main wheels. It is powered by two Pratt & Whitney R-985 Wasp Junior radial engines.

The Model 18's design includes an all-metal fuselage and wings, with fabric-covered control surfaces. The aircraft's low-wing configuration provides good visibility for the pilot and passengers, as well as improved aerodynamic performance.

Operational History

The Beechcraft Model 18 saw extensive use during World War II, primarily as a military transport and training aircraft. The United States Army Air Forces designated it as the C-45 Expeditor, while the United States Navy used it under the designations JRB and SNB. The aircraft was also used by the Royal Canadian Air Force and other allied air forces.

After the war, many surplus Model 18s were sold to civilian operators, where they found new life as executive transport, airliners, and cargo aircraft. The aircraft's versatility and reliability made it a popular choice for various commercial and private aviation roles.

Variants

Several variants of the Beechcraft Model 18 were produced, including:

• C-45 Expeditor: Military transport version used by the United States Army Air Forces.
• AT-11 Kansan: Bombing and gunnery trainer version.
• JRB: United States Navy transport version.
• SNB: United States Navy trainer version.

Related Pages

• Beechcraft
• Beechcraft AT-11 Kansan
• Beechcraft C-45 Expeditor
• Pratt & Whitney R-985 Wasp Junior
• United States Army Air Forces
• United States Navy
• Royal Canadian Air Force