Avro Type F
| Industry | Aerospace |
|---|---|
| Founded | 1910 in United Kingdom |
| Headquarters | United Kingdom |
| Products | Aircraft |
The Avro Type F represents an early British single-seat aeroplane developed by Avro. On 1 May 1912, it achieved the distinction of being the first aircraft worldwide to incorporate a fully enclosed pilot cabin as a fundamental element of its design.
Design and development
This aircraft was a wire-braced mid-wing monoplane equipped with a tailskid undercarriage. Its fuselage featured a teardrop contour with flat panels and cellon windows. Designers anticipated that engine oil leaks might cloud the cabin glazing, potentially impairing the pilot’s vision. To address this, two circular openings were installed at head height which could be opened, allowing the pilot’s head to extend outside during flight; however, these were ultimately not needed. Access was provided through an aluminium trapdoor located on the upper fuselage. The interior cabin was notably confined, measuring only 2 ft (60 cm) at its widest point.
The Type F conducted several trial flights during mid-1912 before sustaining irreparable damage in a heavy landing on 13 September, after which it was not restored. Its Viale 35 hp engine is currently exhibited at the Science Museum in London, while its rudder has been preserved by the Royal Aero Club.
A replica bearing the registration BAPC.328 is on display at the Avro Heritage Museum located in Woodford, Greater Manchester.
Specifications
References
- Taylor, Michael J. H., Jane's Encyclopedia of Aviation, Studio Editions, London, 1989, p. 91
- World Aircraft Information Files, Bright Star Publishing, London, pp. File 889 Sheet 92–93
- Avro Type F – British Aircraft Directory