Burgess S

In December 1915, the US Navy commissioned William S. Burgess to develop and build a training seaplane, as well as a reconnaissance aircraft. The prototype, known as the Burgess S, made its first flight on March 6, 1916.

Design and Specifications

This reconnaissance aircraft was a two-seat, three-strut biplane. It was initially equipped with a 100 hp Curtiss OXX V-8 engine. Almost immediately, this engine was replaced with a more powerful 120 hp Hall-Scott A-5 six-cylinder engine.

Naval Service and Legacy

Six examples of the aircraft (A70 – A75) were built for naval aviation. The first unit was delivered to the Navy in March 1916. By March 1919, all these aircraft had been decommissioned, though some continued to operate as civilian seaplanes.

Technical Specifications

Modification	Burgess S
Wingspan, m	14.17
Length, m	9.14
Maximum takeoff weight	1134
Engine type	1 Piston engine Hall-Scott A-5
Power, hp	1 x 120
Maximum speed, km/h	117
Flight endurance, h	4
Rate of climb, m/min	122
Crew	2

Image and diagram gallery of the Burgess S

Burgess S	Burgess S
Burgess S