The Model 17 is a single-engine biplane produced by American aerospace manufacturer Beechcraft. The airplane, which became one of the most iconic in the history of aviation and often called the “Cadillac of the Sky,” took its first flight on November 4, 1932 and was produced between 1933 and 1945. Initially designed for business executives, with seating for up to four including pilot, the Model 17 served the needs of a variety of civilian aviation needs as well as military applications during World War II. The design departs from other biplane configurations in that the lower wing is forward of the upper for visibility and performance reasons, hence the name "Staggerwing" Beechcraft produced a total of 785 Model 17s.