Home – Welcome Aboard the Navion

Discover the elegance and engineering of a true post-war classic. This Navion, originally designed by North American Aviation, is more than just an aircraft—it’s a tribute to the golden age of flying. Owned and flown by Ranjan, Navion GEYVZ continues to turn heads in the skies and on the ground.

About the Navion – The Story of a Classic Aircraft

The Navion was introduced in 1946, designed by the same minds behind the legendary P-51 Mustang. With its rugged build, sleek lines, and four-seat configuration, it was a natural step for returning WWII pilots looking for a civilian aircraft that didn’t compromise on performance or looks.

Our Navion is a proud example of this aviation heritage – lovingly maintained and ready to take on the skies.

Post-War Origins

The Navion was born in the aftermath of World War II, a time when aviation companies were shifting their focus from military production to civilian markets. It was originally developed by North American Aviation—the famed manufacturer behind the P-51 Mustang—as a high-performance, all-metal, four-seat aircraft aimed at private pilots and ex-military aviators returning from war.

 

First flown in 1946, the Navion (pronounced “NAY-vee-on” or “NAV-ee-on,” depending on who you ask) was designed to embody the strength and performance of a military aircraft, but with the comfort and utility of a civilian tourer. The aircraft featured a retractable tricycle undercarriage, side-by-side seating, and a low-wing configuration, which was still fairly modern for its time.

From North American to Ryan

Despite its innovative design and solid performance, North American Aviation sold the rights to the Navion after building about 1,100 units. They had bigger contracts to chase—namely military jets—and weren’t committed to the light aircraft market.

In 1947, Ryan Aeronautical Company (known for building Charles Lindbergh’s Spirit of St. Louis) acquired the design. Ryan continued refining the aircraft and produced several upgraded versions, including the Navion A and Navion B, which featured improved avionics and more powerful engines.

Military Role: The L-17

The U.S. military took a keen interest in the Navion due to its robustness and adaptability. The aircraft was designated the L-17 and was used by the U.S. Army and Air Force for a variety of purposes:

  • Liaison duties

  • Training

  • Transport of personnel and light cargo

Over 1,200 Navions served in military roles through the late 1940s and into the Korean War era. Some were even adapted for photo reconnaissance and medical evacuation.

Later Manufacturers & Upgrades

Following Ryan, the design was passed through a few other hands, including:

  • TUSCO (Tubular Steel Corporation) – Produced the Navion Rangemaster, a more luxurious version with a larger cabin and fixed rear windows.

  • Sierra Hotel Aero – A modern company that now supports existing Navion aircraft with parts, upgrades, and documentation.

Later versions of the Navion received various modifications, such as:

  • Turbocharging

  • Larger engines (up to 285 hp)

  • Modern avionics

  • Tip tanks for increased range

Despite all the changes, the classic silhouette and flying characteristics have remained largely intact.

Flying Characteristics

The Navion is known for:

  • Stable handling

  • Solid construction

  • Spacious cabin

  • Long range (up to 900 nautical miles with tip tanks)

It’s a forgiving aircraft for pilots but does require attention on landing due to its relatively heavy weight compared to more modern light aircraft.

Legacy

Today, the Navion is a much-loved vintage aircraft, cherished by warbird enthusiasts, collectors, and pilots who appreciate a bit of military character in their general aviation flying. An active owners’ group and a vibrant restoration community keep the aircraft alive and flying across the U.S., Canada, and Europe.

With fewer than 1,000 airworthy examples believed to remain, owning a Navion is often seen as a badge of honour—a mix of pilot skill, mechanical knowledge, and historical appreciation

Photo Gallery – Explore the Navion in Pictures

A curated collection images capturing every detail—from the sweeping wings and polished fuselage to the finely restored cockpit and avionics.

(Include categories: Exterior, Interior, In Flight, Restoration Photos)

Restoration Journey – From Hangar to Sky

(Only if applicable)

Follow the step-by-step transformation of our Navion as it was restored to its former glory. From structural inspections to engine tuning, avionics upgrades and interior refinishing—this was a labour of love and a nod to aviation history.

Specs & Performance – Technical Details & Capabilities

  • Model: Navion (e.g., A, B, Rangemaster – specify variant)

  • Engine: (e.g., Continental O-470)

  • Cruise Speed: ~130–140 knots

  • Range: ~700–900 nautical miles

  • Seats: 4

  • Landing Gear: Retractable tricycle

  • Useful Load: ~1,000 lbs

Whether you’re a fellow pilot or an aviation enthusiast, the Navion delivers both performance and character in every flight.c

History & Heritage – A Legacy of American Aviation

Designed for civilian pilots returning from WWII, the Navion combined military-style performance with civilian comfort. Originally built by North American Aviation, and later by Ryan Aeronautical, the aircraft served in both civilian and military roles under the L-17 designation.

Today, fewer than 1,000 remain airworthy—each one a flying piece of history.

Flight Log / Blog – Flights, Adventures & Updates

Regular updates on flights, maintenance, fly-ins, and more.
Recent entry: “Flew to Duxford for the vintage aircraft meet—Navion performed flawlessly. Smooth ride at 8,500 feet, with clear skies and plenty of admiring glances on the ground.”

Contact – Get in Touch

Have a question about the Navion? Want to connect with other vintage aircraft enthusiasts? We’d love to hear from you.

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