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De Havilland DH.82A Tiger Moth

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Revision as of 15:45, 29 July 2020 by Linton (talk | contribs) (Crew members)
De Havilland DH.82A Tiger Moth
Tiger Moth at 9 ETS Cunderdin.jpg
9 Elementary Flying School Cunderdin Tiger Moths
Tiger Moth A17-156 in 2014.jpg
2014 photo of A17-156
History
Type de Havilland DH.82A Tiger Moth
Role Primary training aircraft
Designer Geoffrey de Havilland
Manufacturer de Havilland Aircraft Company
Produced UK (5,327), Canada (1,548), Australia (1,070), US (200), New Zealand (132), Portugal (91), Norway (32), Sweden 23, etc
Number built 8,868
Primary users Flight training - 39 countries
In service 1934
Out of service Still used in private hands.


Remarks

Based on the earlier, smaller de Havilland Gipsy Moth and designed as both a trainer and for touring, flying club and private aviation. In Oct 1931 the first Tiger Moth made its maiden flight, and shortly after the construction of the first 35 production aircraft for the RAF commenced, along with two float variations.


Quickly established as a military trainer orders were so strong as to make domestic private orders difficult to fill until 1937 when production caught up with demand. Variants followed as use and experience with the aircraft increased, and by the outbreak of war 1,424 aircraft had been constructed, with nearly 300 in service with the RAF. Overseas production had commenced in 1937.


The DH.82A tiger Moth was powered by the de Havilland Gipsy Major 1 engine, which produced 130 hp. In the early days of the war, with inadequate coastal patrol aircraft, the Tiger Moth was used for coastal patrols, working in pairs, and armed only with a Very pistol.


Following completion of the war, large numbers of surplus Tiger Moths were made available for sale to flying clubs and individuals. There were relatively few new light aircraft being manufactured at the time, and with the type being relatively inexpensive to operate, the Tiger Moth was met with an enthusiastic reception across the civil market. IN addition it was put to use in new roles including aerial advertising, aerial ambulance, aerobatic performer, crop dusting and glider tug work.


General characteristics

  • Crew: two
  • Length: 7.34 m
  • Wingspan: 8.94 m
  • Height: 2.68 m
  • Empty weight: 506 kg
  • Max takeoff weight: 828 kg
  • Powerplant: 1 x de Havilland Gipsy major 130 hp
  • Maximum speed: 175 km/hr at 300 m
  • Range: 486 km
  • Service ceiling: 4,145 m
  • Armament
  • Guns:
  • Bombs: 8 x 8 kg

Aircrew members

No.2 Elementary Flying Training School

No.9 Elementary Flying Training School Cunderdin


Ground Crew

No. 1 Operational Training Unit RAAF