Blackburn Type I • wp.archivoaereo.com

Continuing work on their project, Blackburn built a two-seater modification designated as the Type I. The new aircraft’s first flight took place in August 1913. Equipped with an 80 hp Gnome rotary engine, the Type I performed numerous flights, establishing its early operational history.

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Evolution and Variants

This model was followed by another Type I, a single-seater aircraft with the same engine. An “improved” Type I also appeared, which frequently took to the air, contributing to the initial flight experience of the aircraft.

Transformation and Service

Over time, this very aircraft was converted into a training seaplane, fitted with an Anzani radial engine for the “Northern Aircraft Co.” It was utilized on Lake Windermere, where many pilots from the British Navy’s aviation school underwent basic training on this versatile “Land/Sea Monoplane.” The aircraft was eventually retired in April 1916.

Technical Specifications

Modification	Type I
Wingspan, m	11.58
Length, m	8.69
Wing area, m2	23.40
Empty weight	430
Normal takeoff weight	680
Engine type	1 Piston engine Gnome et Rhone
Power, hp	1 x 80
Maximum speed, km/h	113
Cruising speed, km/h	95
Flight endurance, h.min	4.00
Maximum rate of climb, m/min	216
Crew, crew	1-2