Hobbies And Interests
Engines
The original Widgeon had two Ranger 6440C5 six cylinder, inverted, inline piston engines that produce 200 horsepower each to spin two-blade propellers. The Super Widgeon's larger Lycoming GO480B1D flat sixes engines provided 270 horsepower and drove three-blade constant-speed propellers.
Weights
"Empty weight" is aircraft weight without passengers, cargo or usable fuel. The Widgeon's empty weight is 3,240 pounds, while the Super Widgeon upgrade's empty weight is 3,800 pounds. Maximum weights for takeoff are 4,525 pounds and 5,500 pounds, respectively.
Performance
The G44's maximum speed is 139 knots, noticeably slower than the 165 knots achievable with the Super Widgeon. Widgeons normally cruise at 113 knots, while more powerful engines pushed that number up after McKinnon's upgrade. Furthermore, you can expect 1,000 feet per minute after takeoff on initial departure with the original model, but 750--for a total of 1,750 feet per minute--on the Super.
Dimensions and Capacity
Both versions of the Widgeon share identical dimensions. Their wingspan, i.e., wingtip-to-wingtip distance, is exactly 40 feet. The surface area of the wings is 245 square feet. They measure 31 feet one inches long and 11 feet five inches tall. Seating capacity for both is up to six people, including the pilot.
Interesting Facts
Further improvements McKinnon included in the Super Widgeon consisted of wider windows for passengers, better soundproofing and an emergency escape hatch. Some models even got retractable floats on the wingtips. A handful of both versions are still in service with private owners, as well as used commercially.