The success of Caproni’s monoplanes (Giovanni Caproni) prompted the designer to develop similar aircraft for the Italian Air Force. The first such aircraft, initially designated Cm.6 (Caproni monoplano 6) and later as Ca.12, was built in late 1911 and made its maiden flight early the following year.
Early Innovation and Performance
Equipped with a 60 hp six-cylinder Anzani engine, the aircraft became Caproni’s first two-seater monoplane. Pilot Enrico Cobioni set two world speed records with the Ca.12, covering 250 and 300 kilometers.
Demonstration and Commercial Applications
In April of the same year, the aircraft undertook several demonstration tours across Italian cities. In Venice, anyone willing to pay could take a ride, marking the first commercial use of an aircraft in Italy.
Several Ca.12 examples were acquired by the Italian Air Force for military flight schools.
Technical Specifications
| Modification | Ca.12 |
| Upper wingspan, m | 11.28 |
| Length, m | 8.40 |
| Height, m | 3.00 |
| Wing area, m2 | 22.00 |
| Empty weight | 340 |
| Maximum takeoff weight | 590 |
| Engine type | 1 Piston engine Anzani |
| Power, hp | 1 x 60 |
| Maximum speed, km/h | 110 |
| Cruising speed, km/h | 95 |
| Crew | 2 crew |
Image gallery of the Caproni Ca.12
