FMA AeC.3
| Company type | Aircraft model |
|---|---|
| Industry | Aviation |
| Founded | 1934 |
| Headquarters | Argentina |
| Products | Lightweight utility airplane |
The FMA AeC.3 was a lightweight utility airplane created in Argentina during 1934 as a progression from the previous AeC.1 model. Argentine flying clubs began receiving deliveries of this aircraft towards the end of 1934.
Development
Derived from the AeC.2, the AeC.3 was equipped with an open cockpit and powered by a Warner Scarab engine. On 21 January 1936, the upgraded AeC.3G version took flight featuring a more powerful 145 HP Armstrong Siddeley Genet Major engine and became the first Argentine plane to incorporate flaps. Originally designed with an open cockpit, it was subsequently converted to include an enclosed cabin.
The last variant, known as the AeC.4, conducted its maiden flight on 17 October and represented an AeC.3G model with aerodynamic enhancements; only one unit of this type was manufactured.
Operational history
In 1935, Carola Lorenzini achieved a South American altitude record by ascending to 5,500 m (18,040 ft) in an AeC.3. That same year, Santiago Germanó secured the aerobatics championship at the Resistencia aviation event piloting this aircraft type. Furthermore, Pedro B. Mórtola completed a significant long-range round trip between Buenos Aires and Rio Gallegos, covering a distance of 5,200 km within 37 hours and 20 minutes.
Variants
- AeC.3 – equipped with a 125 HP Warner Scarab engine
- AeC.3G – modified AeC.3 featuring a 145 HP Armstrong Siddeley Genet Major engine and flaps
- AeC.4 – single example of AeC.3G with aerodynamic improvements
References
- Taylor, Michael J. H. Jane's Encyclopedia of Aviation, 1989, Studio Editions, London, p. 393
- World Aircraft Information Files, Bright Star Publishing, London, File 894 Sheet 27