In March 1929, Nicholas Comper established the Comper Aircraft Company with the goal of constructing an aircraft of his own design. Designated as the Comper CLA.7 and named “Swift” (meaning “fast”), the prototype (G-AARX) made its maiden flight on May 17, 1930.
The Swift was a strut-braced high-wing monoplane, featuring wooden construction with fabric and plywood covering. Its wing was attached to the upper part of the fuselage, and initial thrust was provided by a 40 hp A.B.C. “Scorpion” piston engine.
Engine Evolution and Production Milestones
Another 7 Swift aircraft, equipped with a 50 hp Salmson AD9 radial engine, were built during 1930. The experimental installation of a prototype Pobjoy R radial piston engine on the seventh of these machines, in preparation for air races, led to this engine being chosen as the standard powerplant.
Consequently, most early aircraft were subsequently fitted with Pobjoy R engines. Serial production of standard Swift aircraft totaled 41 machines, with an additional three aircraft specifically designed for air races. Two of these featured 120 hp de Havilland “Gipsy” III engines, and one had a 130 hp de Havilland “Gipsy Major” engine.
Wartime Service of the Swift
At least four “Swifts” were actively operated during the war. An aircraft with registration code G-ABPE was used by the commander of the 25th Squadron and carried black night fighter camouflage with ZK emblems and designation.
Another aircraft was deployed between 1940-1941 by the 247th Squadron as a jamming station. Furthermore, the “Swift” with registration number G-ABUU was transferred for use by the Air Training Corps and ATC, showcasing the versatility of this ingenious design.
Technical Specifications
| Modification | CLA.7 |
| Wingspan, m | 7. 32 |
| Length, m | 5.40 |
| Height, m | 1.61 |
| Wing area, m2 | 8. 36 |
| Empty weight | 245 |
| Maximum takeoff weight | 447 |
| Engine type | 1 Piston engine Pobjoy R |
| Power, hp | 1 x 75 |
| Maximum speed, km/h | 225 |
| Cruising speed, km/h | 190 |
| Practical range, km | 611 |
| Service ceiling, m | 6705 |
| Crew | 1 |
Image gallery of the Comper CLA.7 Swift
