Auster (AOP series)
Auster Aircraft Limited · United Kingdom · first flew 1942 · light aircraft
The Auster series of light high-wing monoplanes served as Air Observation Post (AOP) aircraft with British and Commonwealth forces from 1942 onwards, providing artillery spotting and liaison duties in all theatres of World War II and beyond. The design was derived from the American Taylorcraft.
Recognition (WEFT)
| W — Wings | High-mounted, tapered |
|---|---|
| E — Engines | 1 × piston, nose-mounted |
| F — Fuselage | 6.83 m fuselage |
| T — Tail | Conventional |
WEFT is AircraftIQ's four-point recognition method — how it works.
Spot it by:
- British high-wing artillery observation monoplane of WWII
- Tandem cockpit with extensive glazing for observation
- Associated with RAF Air Observation Post squadrons
A high-wing strut-braced monoplane with a generous greenhouse-style cabin glazing for the observer; the tapered wing, fixed spatted undercarriage and compact fuselage are characteristic features.
Specifications
- The Auster (AOP series) has a length of 6.83 m (22 ft).
- It has a wingspan of 10.97 m (36 ft).
- Its maximum speed is 209 km/h (130 mph).
- Typical crew: 2.
Figures are for the representative variant described above; marks differ. See how AircraftIQ sources figures.
History
Auster Aircraft Limited developed a family of aircraft from the pre-war Taylorcraft design, progressively improving performance and payload. The Auster AOP.1 through AOP.9 series remained in British military service from WWII through the 1960s, seeing action in Europe, North Africa, the Far East, Korea, Malaya, Suez and other campaigns.
Variants
Numerous marks were produced including Auster I, III, IV, V (WWII types) and post-war AOP.6 and AOP.9; civil variants included the Autocar and Aiglet.
Where you'll see it
Widely used by the British Army Air Corps and RAF; also operated by Australia, Canada, India, and many other nations. The Auster has a genuine and extensive UK service history.
Related aircraft
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