Blackburn Type L • wp.archivoaereo.com

Blackburn’s first six aircraft were monoplanes. However, from 1912 to 1914, Europe saw a series of accidents involving such aircraft, leading even to an RFC ban on the adoption of monoplanes. Consequently, the company’s next aircraft, designated Type L, was designed as a biplane.

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Design Evolution

This two-seater seaplane was specifically built to compete in the 1914 Daily Mail race. The Type L was fitted with a 130 hp Salmson nine-cylinder, water-cooled engine, produced under license by Dudbridge Iron Works Ltd.

Wartime Service and Modifications

The start of the Daily Mail race was scheduled for August 14th, but World War I began on August 4th. All nine entrants were subsequently confiscated by the Admiralty. The Type L was transferred to Scalby Mills base for reconnaissance duties.

During its military service, the aircraft underwent several modifications. These included the removal of the cowling, replacement of the ailerons, and the installation of a new, enlarged propeller. By late 1914, a defensive 7.7mm machine gun was also fitted.

The Blackburn Type L was ultimately lost in an accident in early 1915, concluding its brief but significant operational career.

Technical Specifications

Modification	Type L
Wingspan, m	15.08
Length, m	9.91
Height, m	3.81
Wing area, m2	44.70
Empty weight	779
Normal takeoff weight	1123
Engine type	1 Piston engine Salmson-Canton-Unne
Power, hp	1 х 130
Maximum speed, km/h	1 30
Cruising speed, km/h	105
Practical range, km	715
Rate of climb, m/min	45
Service ceiling, m	3350
Crew	2