Aviation enthusiasts and collectors have a unique opportunity to acquire a remarkable piece of history—a 1938 Spartan Executive 7W, now available for sale through AV8RS, LLC. This rare aircraft is one of fewer than 20 still flying today, and it boasts a storied past that includes competitive air racing, military service, and even a Hollywood film appearance (Overland Stage Raiders starring John Wayne).
The Spartan Executive: A Business Aircraft Ahead of Its Time
Manufactured by the Spartan Aircraft Company in Tulsa, Oklahoma, the Spartan Executive 7W first flew on March 8, 1936. Designed for business executives, the aircraft combined luxury with high performance, featuring a 450-horsepower Pratt & Whitney R-985 radial engine. According to original sales literature, the 7W boasted a high-speed cruise of 212 mph and an economy cruise of 190 mph, with an impressive 1,000-mile range. Built with a 4130 steel tubular frame covered by aluminum skin, each aircraft required approximately 10,000 man-hours to construct. In 1936, a new Spartan Executive cost $23,500—a substantial sum at the time. Only 34 Spartan Executives were built, and 20 are known to exist today. Notable past owners include Howard Hughes and King Ghazi bin Faisal of Iraq, underscoring the aircraft’s elite status.
The History of NC17615
This particular Spartan Executive, NC17615, was the 14th aircraft produced, officially registered in January 1938. Originally retained by Spartan Aircraft Company as a demonstrator, it remained with the company until 1940 before being loaned to the U.S. Army Air Corps during World War II. As a UC-71, it was assigned serial number 42-38368 and played a role in military training operations. In 2009, NC17615 was flown from South Carolina to the United Kingdom by two pilots, including current owner Nigel Pickard. Today, it is based at Little Gransden, England, alongside another Spartan Executive owned by Pickard.
A Unique Spartan with Prestigious Modifications
This particular Spartan Executive is further distinguished by its 1938 Bendix Trophy Race history. Modified for competition, it finished in sixth place, reaching speeds of 225 mph at 10,000 feet under the command of Colonel John B. Hinchey. Adding to its Hollywood appeal, NC17615 was also featured in the 1938 film “Overland Stage Raiders,” starring John Wayne. At the time, it was still owned by Spartan Aircraft Company, making its silver-screen appearance even more significant.
Upgrades & Condition
This Spartan Executive is one of only two factory-painted examples, a rare distinction as most were polished aluminum. It has also undergone the desirable aluminum trunnion upgrade, a $40,000 modification that enhances structural integrity. The aircraft is IFR-equipped, making it suitable for modern flight operations. The Pratt & Whitney R-985 engine was overhauled in 2023 and has only 11 hours since installation. The propeller has also been recently overhauled. The exterior paint is rated 9/10, while the interior is an 8/10, featuring tasteful updates. Importantly, this aircraft retains its U.S. registration (N-number), simplifying ownership for American buyers.
Specifications
This Spartan Executive has a single-pilot configuration with optional seating for up to three passengers or four with a jump seat. The maximum takeoff weight is 4,400 lbs (1,966 kg), and the empty weight is 3,400 lbs (1,545 kg). The aircraft measures 26 feet 10 inches (8.18 meters) in length, with a 39-foot (11.9 meters) wingspan. It has a landing speed of 70 mph and requires approximately 800 feet (245 meters) of runway for takeoff. The landing gear is electric, while the flaps are pneumatic.
More Information
A detailed spec sheet is available upon request, including total airframe time and avionics details. Serious inquiries can be directed to AV8RS, LLC, where Brandon and his team are dedicated to finding the right home for this exceptional aircraft. For more updates, follow AV8RS, LLC and stay tuned to Vintage Aviation News as this rare Spartan Executive continues its remarkable journey. For more information, visit www.av8rsllc.com.
About AV8RS, LLC
Owned and operated by Brandon Baimbridge, a 20+ year USAF Veteran and Executive Director of The Vintage Aero Museum, AV8RS, LLC specializes in aircraft sales, with a passion for flying that extends beyond mere transportation. Brandon explains that the company name—pronounced “Aviators”—reflects both his love for aviation and classic muscle cars, combining the “AV” for aviation with “V8” in homage to powerful engines. Brandon Baimbridge is a 20+ year USAF Veteran, licensed pilot, and Executive Director of The Vintage Aero Museum. He owns and operates AV8RS, LLC, a Washington State Licensed & Bonded Aircraft Dealer, specializing in aircraft sales and jet management. The name AV8RS—pronounced “Aviators”—is a nod to both high-performance aviation and muscle cars, blending “AV” for aviation with “V8” for raw power. Brandon’s credentials and experience speak for themselves: FAA Airframe & Powerplant (A&P) with Inspection Authorization (IA) and a Bachelor’s in Aerospace Science & Aviation Safety Certification (Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University). During his Air Force career, he was a Flying Crew Chief, Quality Assurance Inspector, Section Chief, and Maintenance Production Superintendent. He also served as a Special Airlift Maintenance Technician, keeping warfighters in the fight on aircraft like the AC-130, MC-130, C-17, and C-5. With decades of experience in aviation maintenance, operations, and sales, Brandon brings hard-earned expertise and a relentless work ethic to everything he does.
