Bleriot XLIV

The Bleriot XLIV: An Early Reconnaissance Innovator

Built in early 1914, the Bleriot XLIV was designed as a reconnaissance and observation aircraft, also capable of being used for artillery spotting. It was a single-seat, mid-wing monoplane of mixed construction, powered by an 80 hp Gnome 7A engine.

Revolutionary Design for Enhanced Visibility

The aircraft’s new layout, with the engine and fuel tank placed in the nose section and the pilot’s cockpit behind them, provided better visibility for the pilot than on the standard Bleriot XI. This configuration aimed to optimize the aircraft’s observation capabilities.

Military Reception and Legacy

However, despite its advanced design for the period, the new reconnaissance aircraft did not interest the military. Consequently, the Bleriot XLIV remained a unique specimen, marking an interesting point in aviation history.

Technical Specifications

Modification	Bleriot XLIV
Wingspan, m	10.80
Length, m	6.46
Engine type	1 Piston engine Gnome 7A
Power, hp	1 x 80
Crew	1

Image and diagram gallery of the Bleriot XLIV

Bleriot XLIV