Reims Aviation F337

Twin Piston

The Reims F337 is the French-built variant of Cessna's distinctive push-pull twin, the Skymaster, manufactured under license by Reims Aviation from 1968 through the early 1980s. What makes the Skymaster genuinely unusual in general aviation is its centerline-thrust configuration: one engine mounted conventionally in the nose, the other behind the cabin driving a pusher propeller. This arrangement eliminates the asymmetric thrust problems that complicate single-engine handling in conventional twins, making the aircraft significantly easier to fly on one engine and earning it a reputation as a safer, more forgiving light twin for owner-pilots. Reims produced the F337 alongside Cessna's U.S. production, with French-built examples often featuring metric instrumentation and minor equipment differences but otherwise identical performance to their Wichita-built siblings. Powered by twin Continental IO-360 engines producing 210 horsepower each, the F337 cruises around 170 knots and offers a useful load near 1,400 pounds, making it a capable platform for aerial survey, patrol, and light cargo work in addition to personal transportation. The type saw modest military and paramilitary use in observation and liaison roles, valued for its excellent visibility, docile handling, and ability to operate from short, unprepared strips. Though production ended decades ago, the Skymaster remains a cult favorite among pilots who appreciate its unique handling characteristics and practical cabin layout. The high wing and twin-boom tail provide unobstructed downward visibility prized by surveyors and photographers, while the centerline thrust configuration continues to attract pilots seeking twin-engine redundancy without the training burden of conventional light twins. SkyMeter has tracked 23 flights across 9 airframes and 3 operators, with SLAWKO PAUL A the largest observed operator.