Number 53 of 100 in 100, the Bellanca Viking
Conceptualization:
The Bellanca Viking was developed in the late 1960s in response to growing demand for fast, sleek, and high-performance personal aircraft. During this era, affluent pilots sought more from their airplanes than just basic transportation—they wanted speed, comfort, and a touch of luxury for long-distance travel. Bellanca Aircraft Company identified this niche and aimed to create an aircraft that combined power with craftsmanship, standing out with its wooden-wing design at a time when most aircraft manufacturers were transitioning to all-metal airframes. This emphasis on blending tradition with modern performance led to the Viking’s development as a high-end personal aircraft, competing directly with other iconic aircraft like the Beechcraft Bonanza and Piper Comanche.
Original Design:
The Bellanca Viking’s design was distinctive. Its wings were crafted from laminated spruce covered in plywood, while the fuselage was a combination of fabric and steel. This gave the Viking a unique flight characteristic, providing a smoother ride than many of its contemporaries. One of the key innovations was its retractable landing gear, which improved speed and fuel efficiency. Powered by a Continental IO-520 engine, the Viking’s 300-horsepower allowed for excellent climb rates and top cruising speeds around 163 knots. Inside, the Viking emphasized comfort, with leather seats, plush carpeting, and a focus on providing a luxury experience to match its high performance. This combination of craftsmanship and capability made the Viking stand out among its competitors.
Photo Credit: airliners.net - David Lednicer
Principal Designer:
Giuseppe Mario Bellanca, known for designing record-setting aircraft, laid the foundation for the Viking’s design principles, though the Viking itself was developed after his passing. Bellanca was an early pioneer in aviation, having designed planes that set records for long-distance and endurance flights. His design philosophy was carried forward by Bellanca Aircraft Company, and the Viking’s design is clearly influenced by his earlier work on the Cruisair, a craft well-regarded for its performance and craftsmanship. The team that developed the Viking stayed true to Bellanca’s legacy, blending traditional wood construction with modern aerodynamics and powerplant choices.
Production Run:
Production of the Bellanca Viking began in 1968 and continued until 1975, when Bellanca Aircraft Company ceased regular manufacturing due to financial difficulties and challenges in the general aviation market. Rising fuel costs and economic pressures led to a decline in general aviation sales. Although full-scale production ended in 1975, approximately 1,356 Vikings were built in total.
Evolution:
Over the years, the Viking saw several key improvements. Early models, like the 17-30 Viking, were equipped with a 300-horsepower Continental IO-520 engine, while later versions offered the option of a Lycoming IO-540 engine. The Super Viking models, introduced in the 1970s, featured improved range, avionics, and optional turbocharging. These incremental upgrades kept the Viking competitive in a market increasingly dominated by all-metal aircraft. Inside, Bellanca continued to refine the Viking’s interior, offering luxurious features like leather seats and more advanced avionics, which enhanced the pilot’s experience during long flights.
Photo Credit: airliners.net - Fred Gay
Specifications:
1976 17-30A Super Viking 300A
General characteristics
- Crew: 1
- Capacity: 3 passengers
- Length: 26 ft 4 in (8.03 m)
- Wingspan: 34 ft 2 in (10.41 m)
- Height: 7 ft 4 in (2.24 m)
- Wing area: 161.5 sq ft (15.00 m2)
- Airfoil: Bellanca B
- Empty weight: 2,217 lb (1,006 kg)
- Max takeoff weight: 3,325 lb (1,508 kg)
- Fuel capacity: 60 US gal (50 imp gal; 230 L) usable fuel (normal), 75 US gal (62 imp gal; 280 L) with auxiliary tanks
- Powerplant: 1 × Continental IO-520-K air-cooled flat-six engine, 300 hp (220 kW)
- Propellers: 2 or 3-bladed McCauley constant-speed propeller, 6 ft 8 in (2.03 m) diameter
Performance
- Cruise speed: 188 mph (303 km/h, 163 kn) (TAS, 75% power, max. cruise)
- Stall speed: 70 mph (110 km/h, 61 kn) (wheels and flaps down, CAS)
- Never exceed speed: 226 mph (364 km/h, 196 kn) (IAS)
- Range: 923 mi (1,485 km, 802 nmi) (max. fuel)
- Service ceiling: 17,000 ft (5,200 m)
- Rate of climb: 1,170 ft/min (5.9 m/s)
- Takeoff run to 50 ft (15 m): 1,420 ft (433 m)
- Landing run from 50 ft (15 m): 1,340 ft (408 m)
Comparison to Other Aircraft in Its Class:
The Bellanca Viking really stands out when you compare it to other aircraft like the Beechcraft Bonanza, Piper Comanche, and Cessna 210. The Bonanza V35, with its 285-hp engine and all-metal design, is slightly faster, but the Viking's 300-hp engine gives it a little more punch when it comes to climbing and overall performance. The Comanche, on the other hand, offers a bit more range and lower operating costs. The Cessna 210 is more practical, with a spacious cabin and a high service ceiling, but it doesn’t quite match the Viking's smooth, handcrafted wooden wings that make for a really unique flying experience. If you’re a pilot who enjoys a more “hands-on” feel in the cockpit, the Viking’s responsive controls and attention to detail in the interior design make it a clear choice for those who value both performance and comfort in their personal aircraft.
Performance:
Bellanca Viking Performance Envelope and V-Speeds
V-Speeds:
- V_NE (Never Exceed Speed): 226 mph (196 knots)
- V_NO (Maximum Structural Cruising Speed): 188 mph (163 knots)
- V_FE (Maximum Flap Extended Speed): 108 mph (94 knots)
- V_LE (Maximum Landing Gear Extended Speed): 130 mph (113 knots)
- V_LO (Maximum Landing Gear Operating Speed): 130 mph (113 knots)
- V_A (Maneuvering Speed): 138 mph (120 knots)
- V_S (Stall Speed, Clean Configuration): 70 mph (61 knots)
- V_S0 (Stall Speed, Landing Configuration): 57 mph (50 knots)
- Best Glide Speed: 105 mph (91 knots)
- Rotation Speed (V_R): 65-70 mph (57-61 knots)
- V_X (Best Angle of Climb): 80 mph (70 knots)
- V_Y (Best Rate of Climb): 100 mph (87 knots)
G Load Limitations:
- Normal Category:
- Positive G limit: +3.8 G
- Negative G limit: -1.52 G
- Utility Category:
- Positive G limit: +4.4 G
- Negative G limit: -1.76 G
Performance Assessment:
The Bellanca Viking is a versatile and fun aircraft that excels in both advanced training and personal aviation. Its smooth controls and forgiving stall speed make it a great option for pilots transitioning into high-performance planes, though it's best suited for those with experience. In personal aviation, the Viking shines with a top cruising speed of 163 knots, a range of 802 nautical miles, and the ability to perform well at higher altitudes. It’s perfect for cross-country trips. All in all, the Viking offers a great mix of performance, comfort, and style.
Photo Credit: airliners.net - James Richard Covington
Safety Record:
The Bellanca Viking has a solid safety record, though it has some unique concerns, mainly related to its wooden wings. Proper maintenance is essential to prevent wood rot, especially for aircraft stored in humid environments. Landing gear issues, while not uncommon for retractable gear aircraft, have been reported, with some gear-up landing incidents attributed to pilot error or mechanical failure. Nonetheless, the Viking’s robust build and predictable handling make it a safe and reliable aircraft when properly maintained, with a safety record comparable to other high-performance aircraft like the Beechcraft Bonanza.
Acquisition Cost:
Originally priced between $28,000 and $32,000, the Bellanca Viking now sells on the used market for anywhere between $50,000 and $100,000, depending on condition and upgrades. The cost is generally lower than some competitors, such as the Bonanza, though ongoing maintenance—particularly for the wooden wings—can be more expensive. Nonetheless, for those who appreciate its unique design and performance, the Viking remains a highly sought-after aircraft.
Conclusion:
The Bellanca Viking is a special aircraft that has earned a loyal following among pilots for its combination of performance, craftsmanship, and unique design. While it requires diligent maintenance, especially for the wood and fabric elements, the Viking rewards its owners with a smooth, luxurious flying experience. With its rich history and impressive handling, it continues to captivate pilots who seek more than just a standard airplane.
Photo Credit: airliners.net - Karl K.
Bibliography:
Aviation Consumer – Bellanca Viking Review
AOPA Aircraft Guide – Bellanca Viking
Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Safety Database
National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB)
Airliners.net - Bellanca Viking
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