CAMS 58 • wp.archivoaereo.com

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Initial Development and the CAMS 58-0

The CAMS 58 was the last biplane flying boat from the firm Chantiers Aeromaritimes de la Seine (CAMS). This six-seater aircraft represented a further development of the successful CAMS 53 design. The first prototype, the CAMS 58-0, equipped with two 650 hp Hispano-Suiza 12 Nbr engines, was first shown at the Paris Air Show at the end of 1930.

The following year, it participated in a transatlantic postal seaplane competition. It was subsequently acquired by the same firm Air-Union, but saw virtually no use due to its short flight range, which was only 950 kilometers.

The Evolution of the CAMS 58-2

In 1931, the company released an enlarged version of the aircraft for ten passengers, designated CAMS 58-2. This model was fitted with four 300 hp Lorraine 9Na Algol engines, arranged in two tandem pairs. This allowed for an increase in flight range to 1300 kilometers.

After several weeks of testing, it was decided to further refine the flying boat, but this could not be accomplished due to financial difficulties.

The CAMS 58-3 and the End of CAMS

The following year, the CAMS firm was acquired by Potez. A year later, an order came from Air France for two transatlantic flying boats, each capable of carrying ten passengers. The new seaplane variant, designated CAMS 58-3, was a completely redesigned version of the CAMS 58-2, powered by two 650 hp Hispano-Suiza 12Nbr engines.

Two units were produced and delivered to the client in 1935. These aircraft accumulated 86 and 19 flight hours respectively, after which they were replaced by more advanced machines.

Technical Specifications

Modification	CAMS 58-3
Wingspan, m	24. 30
Length, m	14.91
Height, m	6.14
Wing area, m2	129. 70
Empty weight	5428
Maximum takeoff weight	8450
Engine type	2 Piston engine Hispano-Suiza 12Nbr
Power, hp	2 x 650
Maximum speed, km/h	225
Cruising speed, km/h	190
Practical range, km	1025
Service ceiling, m	3900
Crew	2
Payload	10 passengers