Parallel to the conversion of the Ca.42 bomber into the Ca.48 transport aircraft, Aeronautica Caproni undertook a similar conversion for a plane with even greater passenger capacity: the Ca.58. This model was equipped with three Fiat A.14 or Isotta Fraschini V.6 engines, each delivering 700 hp.
A Post-War ‘Dreamliner’
This aircraft became a true ‘dreamliner’ of the first post-war decade. It could accommodate 30 passengers, arranged traditionally in individual seats along the sides of a central aisle. The two-deck design was connected by a staircase, and amenities included a lavatory, a bar, and a baggage compartment. The two-person crew operated from an open cockpit on the upper deck.
Ca.59 Engineering and Safety Innovations
For the Ca.58’s export modification, designated Caproni Ca.59, the type and number of engines were changed. This aircraft flew with five Liberty engines of 400 hp each, with two additional motors positioned on the wing ‘backward,’ meaning they used pusher propellers. The total combined power of the five engines remained around 2000 hp, similar to the Ca.58’s three engines, and the number of engines was increased for flight safety considerations.
The exact number of aircraft of these two types that existed is unknown. However, the Ca.59 ultimately failed to attract foreign buyers, presenting a challenge for this advanced aircraft.
Technical Specifications
| Modification | Ca.58 |
| Wingspan, m | 29.53 |
| Length, m | 14.96 |
| Height, m | 7.39 |
| Wing area, m2 | 250.00 |
| Empty equipped weight | 5400 |
| Normal takeoff weight | 8900 |
| Engine type | 3 Piston engines Fiat A.14 |
| Power, hp | 3 x 700 |
| Maximum speed, km/h | 130 |
| Cruising speed, km/h | 115 |
| Flight endurance, h | 5 |
| Crew | 2 crew |
| Payload | up to 30 passengers |
Image gallery of the Caproni Ca.58
