Recently a friend sent me a blurb from another aviation magazine about the restoration of a Beech Staggerwing — arguably the ultimate classic airplane — by the Kansas Aviation Museum. He knew I’d be interested in this particular D17S because it belonged at one time to my ex- and late husband, Ebby Lunken.
Unusual Attitudes: Staggerwings and Soda Bottles
Key Takeaways:
- The author shares her deep personal connection to Beech Staggerwing aircraft, including her late husband Ebby Lunken's ownership of one and her observation of a meticulous, multi-year restoration project.
- The article emphasizes the Staggerwing's complex design, which made restoration extremely labor-intensive (e.g., 6,000 rib stitches) and contributed to its reputation for challenging handling and frequent accidents ("prangs").
- It details the "promiscuous" history of one specific Staggerwing (N1532V/VH-FNS), documenting its journey through 19 owners, multiple international shipments, an engine failure, and its ongoing rescue and restoration by the Hawleys.
- A memorable anecdote recounts the author's ex-husband Ebby's Staggerwing crash during a secret ski trip, which inadvertently led to public scandal, the end of two marriages, and ultimately, the author becoming the second Mrs. Lunken.
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