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Fairey D-III Float Plane

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REVAN

Well-Known Member
Joined
Dec 6, 2016
Messages
605
Location
Tucson, Arizona USA
I came across the Fairey D-III while watching a documentary on float planes. What interests me is the float arrangement, as I have considered something similar for my ultralight design. My concern has been that it is different from the traditional pontoon arrangement and I don't know what troubles may lie ahead if I were to pursue it. My interest lies in the ability of this concept to establish a higher AOA for takeoff and landing than is provided by a traditional float. I have a swept-wing design that goes to high AOAs for takeoff and landing and a traditional float may unnecessarily raise the takeoff speed due to limiting the rotation angle. (Note: The Sea-Dart's waterski concept bears some similarities to the D-III's floats.) I have not been able to find any information online that discusses was good and what was bad about this float arrangement on the D-III. I just know that pontoons are more popular, and for obvious reasons.

Does anyone here have any information to pass along regarding how this concept worked (good or bad)? Any opinions on this 3 float arrangement in contrast to the much more common 2 float system?


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