Grumman G-21t Turbo Goose

Twin Turboprop

The Grumman G-21 Goose holds a special place in aviation history as one of the most beloved amphibious aircraft ever built, and the G-21T represents the turboprop-powered evolution of this 1930s classic. Originally designed as a commuter aircraft for wealthy Long Islanders traveling to Manhattan, the Goose became an icon of bush flying, coastal operations, and island-hopping routes worldwide. The turboprop conversion—most famously by McKinnon Enterprises and later operators—replaced the original radial piston engines with modern Pratt & Whitney PT6A turboprops, dramatically improving performance, reliability, and operating economics while preserving the aircraft's legendary amphibious capability and rugged charm. The Goose's distinctive high-wing configuration, boat-hull fuselage, and retractable landing gear made it equally at home on water, grass strips, or paved runways. Its spacious cabin could accommodate six to eight passengers in executive comfort or be configured for cargo, making it invaluable for remote operations in Alaska, the Caribbean, and coastal regions where infrastructure was minimal. The type saw extensive military service during World War II as the JRF for the U.S. Navy and Coast Guard, performing search-and-rescue, transport, and patrol missions. Today, turboprop Gooses remain in limited service with operators who value their unique amphibious versatility and classic lines, though the fleet has dwindled as maintenance costs and parts availability challenge even the most dedicated owners. SkyMeter has tracked flights across airframes and operators, with the largest observed operator.