A well—founded "Canard.”

Progress, Volume VII, Issue 2, 1 December 1911, Page 900

A well—founded "Canard.”

■ • Considerable attention is being given by constructors to the marine aeroplane, In the happy .French jargon, these machines are called “Canards,” and the pretty wit of every scribe encourages the

remark that “It is no canard that Mr. So-and-So. is building a canard!” The rumour that M. Bleriot has now completed his “duck” aeroplane indicates that developments in this directions are to be looked for. The Bleriot is a most extraordinary machine. In appearance it is like a stumpy monoplane seen in a distorting mirror. The “tail” is in front; the engine behind; and the pilot amidships. The main plain is well to the rear of the covered-in prow, which is deep and rises sharply. The Bleriot is not merely an aeroplane with a few floats attached. It is a wholly new and special design for a specific purpose. It looks as if it would both swim and fly well. But one never can tell.