"Beech N61278" hoodie

On 5 November 2024, Baptiste and Laura Salis flew the Beechcraft D17S Staggerwing, registered N61278, from Salzburg, Austria.

Restored by Rare Bird in Hungary, the Staggerwing joins the Aero Vintage Academy collection based in La Ferté-Alais.

Acquired almost ten years ago, the history of this Beech began in 1943. Built for the US Navy as a UC-43, it was sold after the war to a company that converted it for civilian use.

It was then immediately sold to the Barnes family, who used it for nearly 3,000 hours.

The Barnes family owned a ranch in Alaska and another in Arizona, and used the aircraft to shuttle their entire family between the two properties. AVA is now the second civilian owner of this aircraft.

The meticulous restoration was started in La Ferté-Alais, but due to lack of time, was entrusted to Rare Bird. The aircraft has been fitted with numerous options and modifications and has been restored to an exceptional standard. This undoubtedly makes it one of the most beautiful Staggerwings in the world.

With the arrival of this D17S, there are now four Staggerwings in active flying condition in France.