Why Did We Name Her Gracie?
We named our biplane Gracie because grace is at the heart of what we believe. In simple terms, grace means that God loves us no matter what—not because we’ve earned it or always get it right, but simply because He cares. It’s a gift we don’t have to work for.
As Christians, grace shapes how we live and how we treat others. At Suncoast Biplanes, we aim to reflect that same grace in how we welcome and care for you.
A life filled with grace compels us to share God's unending love with others!
You're in good hands—with Gracie and with us.
If you are interested in learning more about the Christian faith and the values that guide our business, we would love to have that conversation with you. We strive to live generously because we have been richly blessed—and our desire is to be a blessing to you.
Flying with Gracie!
Open-cockpit adventure – Feel the breeze and freedom of flight
Breathtaking views – From Venice Beach to the Intracoastal Waterway
Bucket-list worthy – A ride that stirs the soul and leaves a lasting smile
Picture-perfect – Her vintage look makes every photo unforgettable
Whether you're celebrating a milestone, surprising a loved one, or just living in the moment — Gracie’s ready when you are.
Into the nuts and bolts? Here are a few of Gracie’s key specs that aviation fans will appreciate.
Gracie is a WACO YMF-5C. While her original vintage design is straight from the 1930’s, she was born in 2000.
During World War II, WACO suspended civilian aircraft production to manufacture CG4-A troop-carrying gliders. After the war, WACO ceased aircraft production in 1946, though its legacy endured among aviation enthusiasts.
In 1983, Classic Aircraft Corporation in Lansing, Michigan, set out to revive the WACO YMF. They modernized the design with over 300 engineering improvements while preserving its vintage aesthetics. The first WACO YMF Classic was certified in 1986, followed by the YMF-5C Super in 1991.
Gracie’s Vital Statistics
Height: 8 ft 5 in
Wing Span: 30 ft
Length: 23 ft 1 in
Max Range: 400 nm
Climb Rate: 770 fpm
Maximum Speed: 126 mph
Normal Cruise: 110 mph
Powerplant: Jacobs R-755 - 275 HP
Gracie’s the One You’ll Tell Stories About
Gracie isn’t just a plane — she’s a memory in the making.
A beautiful Waco WMF-5C biplane, Gracie brings the golden age of aviation to life with every flight. With her open cockpit, classic lines, and vintage charm, she offers passengers an unforgettable way to see Florida’s Gulf Coast — just like the barnstormers of the 1930s.
Lovingly maintained and flown by our expert pilots, Gracie is as graceful in the air as her name suggests. She’s strong, dependable, and full of personality — and she absolutely loves to fly.