J4F-1 Widgeon

The Grumman J4F‑1 Widgeon was a compact, twin‑engine amphibious aircraft that entered service in the early 1940s. Developed from the earlier J2F Duck, the Widgeon featured a high‑wing monoplane layout, a retractable main landing gear, and a hull‑shaped fuselage that allowed water takeoffs and landings. Powered by two 450‑horsepower Lycoming O‑435 radial engines, the J4F‑1 could cruise at 180 mph, carry up to six passengers or a pilot with modest cargo, and operate from both conventional runways and open water. First delivered to the United States Navy in 1940, the type saw extensive use for liaison, transport, and training missions throughout World II, especially in the Pacific theater where its amphibious capability proved valuable for island hopping operations. After the war, surplus aircraft were sold to civilian operators, becoming popular for bush flying, aerial survey, and private recreation. The Widgeon’s durable construction, straightforward maintenance, and versatile performance cemented its reputation as one of the most successful light amphibians of its era, influencing later designs such as the larger Grumman HU‑16 Albatross. Its legacy endures today, with several restored examples still flying at airshows, showcasing the timeless appeal of Grumman’s amphibian engineering.