Biplane Flights ZK-CAT

Built in 1975 (but looking like it came out of the 1920's or 1930's!), it was manufactured by Schweizer and is a Model 6-164A, Serial Number 1418.

ZK-CAT over Lyttelton Harbour. Photo: Alex Mitchell

Originally imported into New Zealand by Brian Stewart, the aircraft first appeared on the register in 1997 and was never used here for agricultural work. It was fitted with two passenger seats where the hopper would normally be located. It was operated by Adventure Aviation and the Rotorua Aero Club with Neville Worsley being the main pilot. In recent years, the aircraft was owned by Brent Esler and operated by Mainland Air out of Dunedin, as well as being used for banner towing over Christchurch.

A close up of the 450 hp Pratt and Whitney Wasp Junior

The aircraft is powered by a Pratt and Whitney R-985 Wasp Junior engine rated at 450 horsepower. This type of engine is also used on famous aircraft such as the Beech Model 18, the Beechcraft Staggerwing, the Avro Anson, CAC Winjeel, the Grumman Goose, the Lockheed L-10 Electra, the Vought Kingfisher, as well as the famous de Havilland Canada DHC-2 Beaver.

	Our aircraft is one of only three radial engine powered Grumman Ag-Cats in New Zealand. Built in 1975 (but looking like it came out of the 1920's or 1930's!), it was manufactured by Schweizer and is a Model 6-164A, Serial Number 1418. ZK-CAT over Lyttelton Harbour. Photo: Alex Mitchell Originally imported into New Zealand by Brian Stewart, the aircraft first appeared on the register in 1997 and was never used here for agricultural work. It was fitted with two passenger seats where the hopper would normally be located. It was operated by Adventure Aviation and the Rotorua Aero Club with Neville Worsley being the main pilot. In recent years, the aircraft was owned by Brent Esler and operated by Mainland Air out of Dunedin, as well as being used for banner towing over Christchurch. A close up of the 450 hp Pratt and Whitney Wasp Junior The aircraft is powered by a Pratt and Whitney R-985 Wasp Junior engine rated at 450 horsepower. This type of engine is also used on famous aircraft such as the Beech Model 18, the Beechcraft Staggerwing, the Avro Anson, CAC Winjeel, the Grumman Goose, the Lockheed L-10 Electra, the Vought Kingfisher, as well as the famous de Havilland Canada DHC-2 Beaver.