PASO ROBLES, Calif. — Aerobatic champion Patty Wagstaff has joined the Excalibur 421 team. She will be the demonstration pilot and also will be responsible for overseeing the transition training program.
The Excalibur 421 features a remanufactured Cessna 421 airframe upgraded with Pratt & Whitney PT6A-135A turboprop engines. It also includes a custom Garmin avionics suite and a new-generation interior cabin. Tires, brakes, de-icing, hydraulics and electrical systems are also all new, according to officials with The Aviation Alliance.
“Patty Wagstaff has received every conceivable award in civilian aviation and is a world-recognized spokesperson for general aviation, we are thrilled to have someone with her flying expertise involved with the Excalibur 421,” said Jack Pelton, Aviation Alliance managing director of operations.
In July 2004, Patty was inducted into the National Aviation Hall of Fame. She is also a six-time recipient of the “First Lady of Aerobatics” Betty Skelton Award. Most recently, she received a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Air Force Association, was inducted into the EAA/IAC Hall of Fame and was presented the NAA/99’s Katharine Wright Award.
“I’m looking forward to using my experience to help make the Excalibur 421 a superior, cost-effective aircraft for my fellow pilots and business aviation owner operators,” said Wagstaff.
The Aviation Alliance manages various programs that remanufacture, modernize and market aircraft. The Excalibur 421 is its first project.
I’m curious as to how much multi engine time Patty has?