Morane-Saulnier Type P

Morane-Saulnier · France · first flew 1915 · fighter

The Morane-Saulnier Type P was a World War I French two-seat parasol monoplane used primarily for reconnaissance and artillery observation, forming part of Morane-Saulnier's extensive WWI production of monoplane types. It was a development of earlier Morane parasol designs.

Recognition (WEFT)

W — Wings	Mid-mounted, straight
E — Engines	1 × piston, nose-mounted
F — Fuselage	7.2 m fuselage
T — Tail	Conventional

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WWI French two-seat parasol monoplane used for reconnaissance and training
Morane-Saulnier mid-wing (parasol) monoplane with rotary engine and wire bracing
Part of the Morane-Saulnier alphabet series of WWI types

A parasol monoplane with the wing mounted above the fuselage on cabane struts, a rotary engine under a circular cowling, and wire bracing — the distinctive Morane formula of WWI.

Specifications

The Morane-Saulnier Type P has a length of 7.2 m (24 ft).
It has a wingspan of 11.2 m (37 ft).
Its maximum speed is 156 km/h (97 mph).
Typical crew: 2.

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

History

Morane-Saulnier was a pioneer of the parasol monoplane configuration, and the Type P represented a refined two-seat version for observation duties. It served with the French Aéronautique Militaire and was also used by other Allied air services, though it was gradually replaced by biplane two-seaters.

Variants

The Morane-Saulnier alphabet series included many overlapping types; the P was related to the earlier L, LA, and N types.

Where you'll see it

Used by the Aéronautique Militaire Française and Allied services in 1915–17 for observation and training; phased out as more capable designs became available.

Related aircraft

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