LA-1 Bull Pup • wp.archivoaereo.com

In 1930, French engineer Etienne Dormoy developed a project for a light single-seat multi-purpose aircraft for the Buhl Aircraft Company, which was designated the Buhl LA-1 Bull Pup.

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Initial Design and Features

The prototype’s fuselage (X8459) was constructed from steel tubes, covered with fabric, and equipped with a 26-horsepower Aeronca engine. After a series of tests, it was decided to replace the engine with a three-cylinder Szekely SR-3 radial engine of 45 hp (34 kW), and the monocoque fuselage was made entirely of metal.

Production and General Use

From 1930 to 1932, over 100 units of the aircraft were built. In addition to the standard modification, variants such as the LA-1A with increased wingspan, the high-altitude LA-1B, and the floatplane LA-1S were also produced. Bull Pup aircraft were used for sports, touring, and light mail services.

Notable Records and Achievements

On June 13, 1931, pilot Mae Haizlip broke the altitude record for its class in an LA-1 Bull Pup, climbing to 6858 meters (22500 feet).

Technical Specifications

Modification	LA-1
Wingspan, m	9.14
Length, m	5. 79
Height, m	1. 98
Wing area, m2	10.16
Empty weight	249
Maximum takeoff weight	386
Engine type	1 Piston engine Szekely SR-3
Power, hp	1 x 45
Maximum speed, km/h	158
Cruising speed, km/h	126
Practical range, km	418
Service ceiling, m	4300
Crew, crew	1