The Caudron C.600 Aiglon, a light touring aircraft, was designed by the prominent French aircraft engineer Marcel Riffard in the 1930s. It made its full program maiden flight in March 1935. This cantilever monoplane, featuring tandem open cockpits, was noted for its excellent aerodynamic characteristics.
The aircraft proved itself during many well-known flights and was particularly popular among French women pilots. Its construction was entirely made of wood, with the exception of the fabric covering on the elevators and rudder. The monoplane wing was fitted with large-span end flaps, enhancing its performance.
Design and Technical Features
The non-retractable landing gear, with a tail wheel, incorporated liquid-gas shock absorbers and differential brakes. The main wheels were enclosed by high-speed fairings. The C.600 Aiglon also featured two baggage compartments, located in front of the forward (passenger) cockpit.
There were some differences in the configuration of the vertical empennage, with three specific types used during production. A total of 203 Aiglon aircraft were built; some of these featured fully enclosed glass canopies over the cockpits, offering greater comfort and protection to the occupants.
Variants and Operational Service
The Aiglon was especially popular among private owners in France and in flying clubs, with a large number sold abroad. With the outbreak of war in 1939, many Aiglon aircraft were requisitioned by the French government and used as liaison aircraft in the Air Force.
Approximately 178 aircraft of the basic C.600 Aiglon model were completed, each fitted with 100 hp Renault 4Pgi Bengali Junior engines. Additionally, three further modifications of the aircraft were produced. The C.600G, equipped with a de Havilland Gipsy Major engine and a Ratier metal propeller, saw 5 units built.
The C.601 Aiglon Senior variant, a version with a more powerful 140 hp Renault 4Pei engine, reached a production of 18 units. Finally, the C.610 was a special long-range version with increased fuel capacity, of which only 2 examples were built, highlighting its versatility.
Technical Specifications
| Modification | C.600 |
| Wingspan, m | 11.38 |
| Length, m | 7.64 |
| Height, m | 2. 89 |
| Wing area, m2 | 14.51 |
| Empty weight | 560 |
| Maximum takeoff weight | 880 |
| Engine type | 1 Piston engine Renault 4Pgi |
| Power, hp | 1 x 100 |
| Maximum speed, km/h | 220 |
| Cruising speed, km/h | 190 |
| Practical range, km | 700 |
| Service ceiling, m | 4000 |
| Crew, crew members | 2 |
Image and diagram gallery of the Caudron C.600 Aiglon
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