Armstrong Whitworth F.K.8

Armstrong Whitworth Aircraft · United Kingdom · first flew 1916 · bomber

The Armstrong Whitworth F.K.8 was a British two-seat general-purpose biplane used extensively by the Royal Flying Corps and Royal Air Force during World War I for bombing, reconnaissance, and artillery observation. Nicknamed the 'Big Ack', it was a rugged and reliable aircraft.

Recognition (WEFT)

W — Wings	High-mounted, straight
E — Engines	1 × piston, nose-mounted
F — Fuselage	9.58 m fuselage
T — Tail	Conventional

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WWI British two-seat tractor biplane bomber and reconnaissance type
Known as the 'Big Ack' to distinguish from the smaller F.K.3
Fixed forward gun plus observer's rear Lewis gun

A large, two-bay biplane with a prominent nose-mounted engine, identifiable by its size relative to smaller WWI British two-seaters and the characteristic Armstrong Whitworth wing bracing arrangement.

Specifications

The Armstrong Whitworth F.K.8 has a length of 9.58 m (31 ft).
It has a wingspan of 13.26 m (44 ft).
Its maximum speed is 153 km/h (95 mph).
Typical crew: 2.

Figures are for the representative variant described above; marks differ. See how AircraftIQ sources figures.

History

First flown in 1916 and entering RFC service in 1917, the F.K.8 replaced earlier types and proved effective in the demanding conditions of the Western Front. It was produced in large numbers and served until the end of the war.

Variants

The F.K.8 was produced with various engine fits during its production run; the type was also used by Australian and other Commonwealth flying squadrons.

Where you'll see it

Widely operated by the RFC and RAF on the Western Front and other theatres; one notable aircraft made a famous forced landing and defensive stand against ground attack.

Related aircraft

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