Pilatus SB-2

Pilatus SB-2

The Pilatus SB-2 Pelican was a civil utility aircraft developed by the newly formed Pilatus Aircraft company during World War II. Its configuration was slightly unusual, in that it was provided with tricycle undercarriage (an uncommon feature at the time), and a wing that had a slight forward sweep. Work on the SB-2 Pelikan, a special “slow-flying” aircraft, commenced in the winter of 1941. Good short takeoff and landing credentials, plus steep climbing capabilities, were essential attributes of the aircraft flown in the narrow Alpine valleys at that time. The SB-2 Pelikan made its maiden flight on 30 May, 1944. After extensive trials, the only model of this type ever produced went to Alpar AG in Berne. The Pelikan was particularly well suited for passenger operations, but could also be used for aerial photography, survey flights, freight transport and agricultural work.

It was fitted with a Pratt & Whitney Canada radial engine (Wasp Junior) with a takeoff power output of 446 hp (333kW).

The “demise” of the Pelikan occurred on 13 June, 1948 during an air display. An unnoticed transverse fracture led to the Pelikan’s nose wheel sheering off, causing the aircraft to flip over. Repair was out of the question

.