Wright Model H Explained

The Wright Model H and Wright Model HS were enclosed fuselage aircraft built by the Wright Company[1]

Design and development

A direct development of the Model F, the Model H introduced side by side seating for the two pilots, with long-span wings similar to the Model F. A short-span version was also produced as the Model HS, marketed as a "Military Flyer" with the improvement of an enclosed fuselage and dual controls.[2] Its wings were shorter than the Model H for increased speed.[3] The Model H was a two place, side-by-side configuration seating, open cockpit, biplane with twin rudders, powered with a single engine, propelled by two chain driven pusher propellers. The engine was fully enclosed in the nose of the aircraft with a driveshaft running rearward to the propeller drive chains.[4]

Operational history

Howard Reinhart purchased a Wright Model HS for Pancho Villa, who hired him in support of his insurgent force.[5] It was one of three aircraft in his small air force.[6]

In 2003, a Wright propeller matching the Model HS specifications was auctioned for over US$25,000. The construction of the propeller was hand carved wood with a linen covering, metal tips and a custom finish.[7]

Variants

Model H: (1914) span 3-bay wings similar to the Model F, also introduced side-by-side seating.
  • Model HS: (1915) Short span 2-bay wings
  • External links

    Notes and References

    1. Web site: Later Wright Activities. 5 January 2012.
    2. Flying. February 1915. 2.
    3. Web site: Wright Airplane Configuration. 5 January 2012.
    4. Web site: Wright Aircraft. 5 January 2012.
    5. Book: Soldiers of fortune. Sterling Seagrave. 28.
    6. Book: The history of the U.S. Air Force. David A. Anderton. 19.
    7. Flying. December 2003. 26.