Winjeel

The CAC Winjeel is a twin‑engine, low‑wing monoplane that served the Royal Australian Air Force as a primary trainer from the late 1950s through the 1970s. Designed and built by the Commonwealth Aircraft Corporation in Melbourne, the Winjeel first flew on 15 March 1955 and entered service in 1957, replacing the aging CAC Wirraway fleet. Its name, derived from an Aboriginal word meaning “colourful bird,” reflected the aircraft’s role in shaping a new generation of pilots. Powered by two 210 hp Lycoming O‑435‑A5 engines, the Winjeel featured a fixed, trouser‑type undercarriage, a spacious cockpit with dual controls, and a simple all‑metal airframe that was both rugged and easy to maintain. The aircraft’s forgiving handling characteristics, good low‑speed stability, and excellent forward visibility made it ideal for basic flight instruction, aerobatics, and liaison duties. Over 120 units were produced, and the type remained in service until the early 1990s in civilian hands. The Winjeel’s legacy lies in its contribution to Australia’s post‑war pilot training program, helping to transition hundreds of cadets to more advanced combat aircraft and cementing the CAC’s reputation as a capable military aircraft manufacturer.