de Havilland DH.94 Moth Minor
de Havilland · United Kingdom · first flew 1937 · light aircraft
The de Havilland DH.94 Moth Minor was a low-wing monoplane light aircraft that represented de Havilland's transition from biplane to monoplane design for the private market. It retained the open-cockpit appeal of the earlier Moth series in a more modern layout.
Recognition (WEFT)
| W — Wings | Low-mounted, straight |
|---|---|
| E — Engines | 1 × piston, nose-mounted |
| F — Fuselage | 7.44 m fuselage |
| T — Tail | Conventional |
WEFT is AircraftIQ's four-point recognition method — how it works.
Spot it by:
- Low-wing monoplane successor to the Moth biplane series
- Open tandem cockpits with characteristic de Havilland lines
- De Havilland Gipsy Minor engine in a slim nose
The DH.94 is identified by its low-mounted straight wing, open tandem cockpits, slim nose housing the inverted Gipsy Minor engine, and the typical de Havilland wooden construction with fabric covering. Its monoplane layout distinguishes it from the biplane Tiger Moth.
Specifications
- The de Havilland DH.94 Moth Minor has a length of 7.44 m (24 ft).
- It has a wingspan of 11.15 m (37 ft).
- Its maximum speed is 177 km/h (110 mph).
- Typical crew: 1 pilot + 1 passenger.
Figures are for the representative variant described above; marks differ. See how AircraftIQ sources figures.
History
First flown in June 1937, the Moth Minor was intended as an affordable two-seat trainer and tourer. Production was cut short by the outbreak of World War II; only about 75 were built in Britain and Australia. Australian production by de Havilland Australia added further examples.
Variants
An enclosed-cockpit coupe version with a sliding canopy was offered. Australian-built examples were used for training. No major engine or structural variants were produced.
Where you'll see it
Used by private owners and flying clubs in Britain and Australia before the war. RAF and RAAF communications roles absorbed some examples during hostilities. A small number survive in museums and private collections.
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