Piaggio P.136: The Graceful Pusher

Wisconsin pilot is the proud owner of one gallant 'Gull.'

Jay Selman

Friday, June 28, 2024 at 08:58 AM ET

Verified

Edited By:

Travis Tingle

The first flight of the P.136 occurred in summer 1948. [JayBird Aviation Photos]

Key Takeaways:

Piaggio Aerospace, a historic Italian manufacturer, developed the unconventional P.136 "The Gull" after WWII, a five-seat amphibian known for its tailwheel, pusher propellers, and graceful design.
Many P.136s were imported and assembled in the U.S. as the "Royal Gull," undergoing modifications and leading to later models like the non-amphibious P.166.
The article focuses on Barry Hammarback's specific 1954 P.136-L1 (N222A), detailing its extensive rebuilds and upgrades by previous owner George Stevenson, and Hammarback's personal adventures and enduring appreciation for the aircraft's unique capabilities.

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Piaggio Aerospace boasts a history of building some of the premier airplanes coming out of Italy. Formerly known as Piaggio Aero Industries, the company is one of the world’s oldest aircraft manufacturers, having produced its first design in 1915.

The 1920s and ’30s saw Piaggio’s prestige grow. The company added top aeronautical engineers and expanded its capabilities worldwide. And, of course, the firm made significant contributions to Italy’s war effort.