SIAI-MARCHETTI S.205 (WACO 5.220)/S.2018

1966’€“81

Gemini Sparkle

Key Takeaways:

  • The Siai-Marchetti S.205 series was produced in multiple versions, varying in engine size (180-300 hp) and gear type, offering versatility from economical touring to high-performance executive use.
  • Known for an exceptionally rigid airframe due to honeycomb panel construction, the first S.205 models were completed in 1965.
  • One notable variant, the S.202-22/R with a Franklin engine and retractable gear, was also assembled in the United States as the Waco Vela S.220.
  • While most S.205 variations went out of production by 1972, the more powerful S.208, featuring a 260-hp Lycoming engine and retractable gear, entered production in 1968.
See a mistake? Contact us.
STANDARD DATA: (S.205-20/R) Seats 4. Gross wt. 2,755. Empty wt. 1,630. Fuel capacity 56. Engine 200-hp Lycoming.
PERFORMANCE: Top mph 174. Cruise mph 159. Stall mph 52. Initial climb rate 865. Range 940. Ceiling 17,650. Takeoff distance (50′) 1,340. Landing distance (50′) 1,540.

STANDARD DATA: (S.202-22/R) Seats 4. Gross wt. 2,755. Empty wt. 1,653. Fuel capacity 56. Engine 220-hp Franklin. PERFORMANCE: Top mph 183. Cruise mph 175. Stall mph 52. Initial climb rate
1,160. Range 823. Ceiling 20,330. Takeoff distance (50′) 1,240. Landing distance (50′) 1,540.

STANDARD DATA: (S.208) Seats 4. Gross wt. 3,306. Empty wt. 1,785. Fuel capacity 117. Engine 260-hp Lycoming. PERFORMANCE: Top mph 199. Cruise mph 187. Stall mph 58. Range 1,250. Ceiling 17,725. Takeoff distance (50′) 1,640. Landing distance (50′) 1,310.

The Siai-Marchetti S.205 was built in several versions, all differing in engine size and gear type. For this reason, the airplane’s uses can range from the most economical touring craft to a high-performance executive craft. It is designed to house engines varying in size from 180 to 300 hp. All Siai-Marchetti aircraft make use of honeycomb panels to give the airframe an exceptionally rigid structure. The first examples were completed in 1965, and were all powered by 180-hp Lycoming engines.

Later models included the S.205-10/17, S.205-1 8/R, S.205-20/17, S.205-20/R, S.205-22/R, and S.202-221M. The numbers following the dash refer to the engine size (10 = 100 hp, 18 = 180 hp, etc.) and the letter refers to retractable, fixed, or military. The Model S.202-22/R was powered by a Franklin engine and utilized retractable gear; it was also assembled in the United States by Allied Aero Industries as the Waco Vela S.220. All the variations went out of production in 1972 except the 20/17 and 20/R. The S.208 entered production in 1968 and shared nearly 60% of the S.206’s structural components. It is powered by a 260-hp Lycoming and features retractable landing gear.

Plane & Pilot

Plane + Pilot is general aviation’s only adventure-based magazine. From where to go, to how to get there, and everything in between, your next great adventure awaits.
Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Get the latest Plane & Pilot Magazine stories delivered directly to your inbox

SUBSCRIBE