Kawanishi K-1
Kawanishi Aircraft · Japan · first flew 1921 · transport aircraft
The Kawanishi K-1 was the first aircraft designed and built by the Kawanishi Aircraft Company, completed around 1920–1921. It holds the distinction of being the first Japanese aircraft to receive a Certificate of Airworthiness.
Recognition (WEFT)
| W — Wings | Mid-mounted, straight |
|---|---|
| E — Engines | 1 × piston, nose-mounted |
| F — Fuselage | 7.5 m fuselage |
| T — Tail | Conventional |
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Spot it by:
- First aircraft built by Kawanishi — and first Japanese aircraft to receive airworthiness certification
- Equal-span rectangular biplane wings with wire bracing
- Open cockpit mail carrier of the early 1920s
A conventional equal-span biplane of early 1920s configuration; its significance lies in its historical position as Japan's first certificated aircraft rather than any unusual visual feature.
Specifications
- The Kawanishi K-1 has a length of 7.5 m (25 ft).
- It has a wingspan of 10 m (33 ft).
- Typical crew: 1-2.
Figures are for the representative variant described above; marks differ. See how AircraftIQ sources figures.
History
Built as a mail carrier and light transport, the K-1 established Kawanishi as a credible aircraft manufacturer. The design was subsequently refined to produce the K-3, which used a more powerful engine. The K-1 was later modified with an enlarged fin to improve directional stability.
Variants
A single prototype; the K-3 was a developed successor.
Where you'll see it
Used in limited civil mail-carrying operations in Japan; not operated militarily.
Related aircraft
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