Design and Development
In March 1913, Louis Blériot constructed the Blériot XLII, a reconnaissance and observation aircraft featuring a “canard” aerodynamic scheme. This two-seater mid-wing monoplane was equipped with an 80 hp Gnome engine.
Features and Observation Role
The crew was accommodated in a partially armored cockpit. A small window was installed at the front of the fuselage to facilitate observation. For reconnaissance missions, the observer would lie horizontally on the cockpit floor, providing a better vantage point.
Testing and Outcome
The Blériot XLII underwent a series of tests. Despite its innovative design and specific features, the aircraft ultimately failed to generate interest from the military.
Technical Specifications
| Modification | Bleriot XLII |
| Wingspan, m | 8. 50 |
| Length, m | 7. 30 |
| Wing area, m2 | 18.00 |
| Engine type | 1 Piston engine Gnome |
| Power, hp | 1 x 80 |
| Crew | 2 |
Image and diagram gallery of the Blériot XLII
 Bleriot XLII |
 Bleriot XLII |
 Bleriot XLII |
How to cite this article:
APA: Blériot XLII (). Blériot XLII. wp.archivoaereo.com. https://wp.archivoaereo.com/en/bleriot-xlii-3/
VANCOUVER: Blériot XLII [online]. wp.archivoaereo.com; [cited 2026-10-02]. Available at: https://wp.archivoaereo.com/en/bleriot-xlii-3/