Valtion lentokonetehdas IVL K.1 Kurki

Valtion lentokonetehdas · Finland · first flew 1927 · light aircraft

The IVL K.1 Kurki was a Finnish two-seat biplane trainer designed and built by the state aircraft factory Valtion lentokonetehdas in the late 1920s. It was a straightforward high-wing design intended to provide primary flight instruction for Finnish Air Force pilots.

Recognition (WEFT)

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Spot it by:

• High-wing Finnish biplane trainer of the late 1920s
• Single radial engine, open cockpit layout
• Straight parallel-chord wings typical of early interwar trainers

A compact high-wing biplane with equal-span straight wings, conventional fixed undercarriage, and an open cockpit; its Finnish state-factory origins make it rare in preservation.

Specifications

• The Valtion lentokonetehdas IVL K.1 Kurki has a length of 7.5 m (25 ft).
• It has a wingspan of 12.3 m (40 ft).
• Its maximum speed is 140 km/h (87 mph).
• Typical crew: 2.

Figures are for the representative variant described above; marks differ. See how AircraftIQ sources figures.

History

Developed in the mid-1920s as Finland sought to establish domestic aircraft production capability, the Kurki flew in 1927 and represented an early effort by the state factory. Only a small number were built, and the type served briefly before being superseded by more capable trainers.

Variants

No significant production variants are recorded; the K.1 was a single basic design.

Where you'll see it

Operated exclusively by the Finnish Air Force in a primary training role during the late 1920s and early 1930s.

Related aircraft

• Valtion lentokonetehdas VL Sääski
• VL Kotka
• VL Tuisku
• VL Viima
• BFW M.19
• Cessna Model A
• de Havilland DH.61 Giant Moth
• Focke-Wulf F 19 Ente

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