| Aircraft | |
|---|---|
| Registration / Serial: | N54205 |
| Aircraft Original Type: | Columbia JL |
| Aircraft Generic Type: | Columbia JL |
| Aircraft Version: | Columbia XJL-1 |
| C/n (msn): | [ 31400 ] |
| Location | |
|---|---|
| City / Area: | Tucson / Pima Museum [ Off-Airport ]Map |
| Region / Country: | Arizona, United States |
| Collection: | Pima Air and Space Museum |
| Photo Date: | 25 January 2023 |
| Photo by: | Richard Vandervord |
| Photo ID: | 697239 |
| Photo Comment |
|---|
|
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. This photo is copyright © Richard Vandervord, and may not be used or published in any way without permission. It was added on 15 June 2024, and has since been viewed 94 times. |