Just three prototype Columbia XJL-1 amphibians were manufactured in 1946 as proposed Grumman Duck replacements for the US Navy, Grumman contracting the work out as it was too busy with fighters for the USN to build the design. This one was allocated Bu Aer 31400. However it did not live up to expectations with several structural failures occurring, and testing at Patuxent River was abandoned. Sold in 1959 as N54205, it was flown from Philadelphia Navy Yard to Tucson in 1961. Although re-engined with a Wright R-2600, it was abandoned at Tucson Airport for decades till rescued by Pima.

Ex-31400/USN.

Was under restoration for the French Valley-based Wings & Rotors Air Museum collection, but has since been moved to the Yanks Museum at Chino.

Ex USN 31399, N54307. One of only two prototypes for a Grumman J2F Duck replacement. The other is on display at Pima Air and Space Museum, AZ.

One of just two built

To Pima Air and Space Museum

Preserved ex US Navy BuAer 31400

Second prototype, with first flight in December 1946. Ex US Navy 31400. Became N54205 in 1958, following ten years of storage at NAS Norfolk, VA. Again stored from 1966 to 1977, but this immaculately preserved seaplane has been preserved at the wonderful Pima Air & Space museum since 1987.

This second prototype of the XJL-1, Bu 31400, was an updated replacement for the Grumman Duck and first flew Dec 1946. Not put into production, the aircraft was stored NAS Norflok, VA from 1948 until it was sold as N54205 in 1958. Stored again Ryan Field, Tucson, AZ after 1966. This rare amphibian has been on display at Pima Air and Space Museum, Tucson, AZ since 1987.