A magnificently restored Grumman G-73 Mallard is now available for sale through Platinum Fighter Sales. This exceptional aircraft, a masterpiece of engineering and restoration, represents the pinnacle of amphibious aviation. Building on the success of the Grumman Goose and Widgeon, the G-73 Mallard was developed as a larger, more capable aircraft tailored for commercial use. Retaining many of the hallmark features of its predecessors—such as twin radial engines, high-mounted wings with underwing floats, and retractable landing gear—the Mallard introduced several innovations, including tricycle landing gear, a two-step hull, stressed-skin construction, and wingtip fuel tanks. Between 1946 and 1951, Grumman produced only 59 Mallards, making them a prized collector’s aircraft today.
A Storied Past
This particular Mallard (airframe J-54) has had a remarkable journey across multiple owners and countries; Aero Visuals provides its history at this link. Originally built as a G-73, it was purchased new by Union Oil Company of California on January 8, 1954, and registered as N2984. Union Oil later changed its registration to N76U during its tenure with the company. Over the years, the aircraft underwent several ownership changes and registrations. In 1993, it was issued a new certificate of airworthiness under the registration N7777Q. By 1998, it had been transferred to an unknown owner in Canada and re-registered as C-GBQN. In 2003, Westernair Inc. of Albuquerque, New Mexico, acquired the aircraft, restoring its U.S. registration as N7777Q.
In 2005, the aircraft was exported to Canada, where it was registered as C-GGMZ under Reg Stewart of Victoria, British Columbia. Five years later, in 2010, it was acquired by Pacific Flying Boats Inc. of Bear, Delaware, and re-registered as N54GZ. A new certificate of airworthiness was issued that same year. By 2014, ownership remained with Pacific Flying Boats Inc., now based in Middletown, Delaware, retaining the N54GZ registration.
A World-Class Restoration
Between 2006 and 2010, this Mallard underwent an extensive, ground-up restoration by Victoria Air Maintenance in British Columbia, Canada. The project involved completely disassembling the aircraft, meticulously refurbishing structural components, replacing alclad skins, fabric coverings, and wiring, and upgrading the electrical, hydraulic, fuel, and fire suppression systems.
The restoration also included complete corrosion removal, a full aircraft repaint, extensive avionics and electrical system upgrades, and the implementation of multiple STCs and structural modifications. A brand-new wing center section was installed, complete with all-new fuel bladders. Both radial engines and propellers were overhauled, and all remaining components were either repaired, overhauled, or replaced with new or serviceable units. Every detail of the restoration was meticulously documented, including modification reports and 337 forms to reflect the aircraft’s current configuration.
With its immaculate condition, rich history, and outstanding performance, this Grumman G-73 Mallard represents a rare opportunity for collectors and enthusiasts alike. Now available through Platinum Fighter Sales, this aircraft is a testament to the enduring legacy of Grumman’s amphibious designs. For more information about this aircraft, visit www.platinumfighters.com.
