Hamilton H-Series Metalplane
Hamilton Aero Manufacturing · United States · first flew 1928 · transport aircraft
The Hamilton H-Series Metalplane was an all-metal high-wing monoplane transport produced by Hamilton Aero Manufacturing in the late 1920s, competing with the Ford Tri-Motor in the early American airline market. It featured corrugated Duralumin construction similar to Junkers practice.
Recognition (WEFT)
| W — Wings | High-mounted, straight |
|---|---|
| E — Engines | 3 × piston, wing-mounted |
| F — Fuselage | 34.8 m fuselage |
| T — Tail | Conventional |
WEFT is AircraftIQ's four-point recognition method — how it works.
Spot it by:
- All-metal monoplane trimotor from the late 1920s — contemporary of the Ford Tri-Motor
- High wing braced with struts and corrugated metal skin
- Three radial engines — one nose, two wing-mounted
Very similar in configuration to the Ford Tri-Motor but with corrugated metal skin and a notably large wingspan. Three radial engines — one on the nose and one under each wing — and high-braced monoplane layout are key features.
Specifications
- The Hamilton H-Series Metalplane has a length of 34.8 m (114 ft).
- It has a wingspan of 54.5 m (179 ft).
- Typical crew: 2 pilots + up to 15 passengers.
Figures are for the representative variant described above; marks differ. See how AircraftIQ sources figures.
History
Hamilton Aero Manufacturing of Milwaukee produced the H-Series Metalplane from around 1926, with the aircraft entering service on early US airmail and passenger routes. The corrugated Duralumin construction was robust and fire-resistant compared to fabric-and-wood contemporaries. A small number were built before Hamilton was absorbed into United Aircraft Corporation in 1929, ending production.
Variants
H-18, H-21, and H-45 designated variants differed mainly in engine choice and capacity; production numbers were low.
Where you'll see it
Operated by early US airlines including Northwest Airways; also used for airmail contracts. A rare and little-known type superseded by more capable aircraft.
Related aircraft
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