Avro 581 Avian
Avro · United Kingdom · first flew 1926 · light aircraft
The Avro 581 was the prototype of the Avro Avian series, a light high-wing monoplane that established the design formula for one of Britain's most popular inter-war touring aircraft.
Recognition (WEFT)
| W — Wings | High-mounted, straight |
|---|---|
| E — Engines | 1 × piston, nose-mounted |
| F — Fuselage | 7.2 m fuselage |
| T — Tail | Conventional |
WEFT is AircraftIQ's four-point recognition method — how it works.
Spot it by:
- Original prototype of the Avro Avian series, 1926
- High-wing strut-braced monoplane with open cockpit
- Single Cirrus I engine; predecessor to popular Avian Mk II and III
High-mounted strut-braced wing, slim open fuselage, and single exposed engine in short nose cowling; identical family resemblance to the production Avian.
Specifications
- The Avro 581 Avian has a length of 7.2 m (24 ft).
- It has a wingspan of 8.5 m (28 ft).
- Its maximum speed is 161 km/h (100 mph).
- Typical crew: 1–2.
Figures are for the representative variant described above; marks differ. See how AircraftIQ sources figures.
History
First flown in 1926, the Avro 581 led directly to the Avro 594 Avian production series, which achieved fame through long-distance record flights including Bert Hinkler's solo flight from England to Australia in 1928.
Variants
The 581 was the prototype; production followed as the Avro 594 Avian with progressive mark improvements.
Where you'll see it
The 581 itself was a development prototype; the subsequent Avian series served with private owners and several air forces.
Related aircraft
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