CANT Z.1007 Alcione
CANT · Italy · first flew 1937 · bomber
The CANT Z.1007 Alcione (Kingfisher) was a three-engine Italian medium bomber that served as one of the Regia Aeronautica's primary medium bombers throughout World War II. Its all-wooden construction and twin-fin tail gave it a distinctive appearance.
Recognition (WEFT)
| W — Wings | Mid-mounted, tapered |
|---|---|
| E — Engines | 3 × piston, wing-mounted |
| F — Fuselage | Slim oval fuselage and mid-mounted tapered wing |
| T — Tail | Twin fin |
WEFT is AircraftIQ's four-point recognition method — how it works.
Spot it by:
- Three radial-engine Italian bomber with twin fins
- Wooden construction with smooth skin
- Slim oval fuselage and mid-mounted tapered wing
Three radial engines on a mid-mounted tapered wooden wing, a distinctly slim oval-section fuselage, and twin oval fins and rudders are the defining recognition features. The lack of any central engine nacelle distinguishes it from similar twin-engine designs.
Specifications
- The CANT Z.1007 Alcione has a length of 18.4 m (60 ft).
- It has a wingspan of 24.8 m (81 ft).
- Its maximum speed is 466 km/h (290 mph).
- Typical crew: 5.
Figures are for the representative variant described above; marks differ. See how AircraftIQ sources figures.
History
First flown in 1937, the Z.1007 entered service in 1939 and participated in campaigns across the Mediterranean, East Africa, and the Eastern Front. Despite its wooden construction being vulnerable to moisture and damage, it was considered one of the better Italian bombers of the conflict.
Variants
The Z.1007bis was the main production variant with more powerful Piaggio P.XI radial engines and a slightly enlarged airframe. The Z.1007ter was a further development that did not reach mass production.
Where you'll see it
Operated by the Regia Aeronautica across all Italian theatres of World War II, including the Battle of Britain periphery, the Mediterranean, East Africa, and Russia. No complete examples survive today.
Related aircraft
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