The rarest of the rare, the last airworthy Evangel 4500 STOL twin is now safely in the hands of the Mid-America Flight Museum in Texas. There were only eight of the aircraft produced by the Evangel Aircraft Corporation in Orange City, Iowa, in the 1960s and they were specifically designed for missionary flights to South America. The boxy design was built around STOL requirements for the short, unimproved air strips in that region. According to Vintage Aviation News, the designers also prioritized reliability, ruggedness, and a big payload.
This aircraft was ferried from Oliver, British Columbia, where it underwent maintenance, before the late-October flight through the mountains and fall weather to Mount Pleasant, Texas. The aircraft is powered by two Lycoming IO-540s and has a payload of about 2,000 pounds and a published takeoff distance over a 50-foot obstacle of just 1,125 feet.
Here is a good write up on experiences in the jungle flying missionary work with the Evangel.
Flying the Evangel bush twin
I also recall hearing a radio broadcast about the life of Carl Mortenson and his development of the aircraft for missionary work. If I can find it, I will try to share it here.
Fantastic. I would have never imagined. Seems like there would still be a market for the Evangel. Makes me want one! Other than engine cost, the simplicity should keep the cost of manufacturing at a minimum.
I recall the Evangel was demonstrated at the Abbotsford BC airshow in either the late 1960’s or early 1970’s.
The company also made a twin engine pusher plane. I think 2 were made. Model 44. Look up Angel Aircraft Corp.