American aviation pioneer Weldon Baxter Cooke built his first aircraft, a single-seat biplane, in 1912. The following year, he established his company, Cooke Aeroplane Co., and completed the construction of a light flying boat. This aircraft was designated the Cooke Tractor Flying Boat, or simply Cooke Flying Boat.
Pioneering Design and Company
This innovative design was a five-seater, two-bay biplane. It was powered by a 75 hp Robert six-cylinder engine, providing ample thrust for its time. Cooke commissioned the hull for this unique flying boat from the Davis Boat Works Co., highlighting a collaborative effort in its construction.
Cooke’s Contribution to Early Aviation
After conducting several successful flights with his flying boat, Cooke embarked on a new venture. He moved to assist Thomas W. Benoist in organizing a pioneering air service line. This ambitious route connected St. Petersburg, USA, with Tampa, marking an early milestone in commercial aviation.
Technical Specifications
| Modification | Cooke Tractor Flying Boat |
| Wingspan, m | 13.72 |
| Length, m | 8.53 |
| Wing area, m2 | 46.45 |
| Empty weight | 363 |
| Maximum takeoff weight | 680 |
| Engine type | 1 Piston engine Roberts |
| Power, hp | 1 x 75 |
| Crew, crew members | 5 |
Image gallery of the Cooke Tractor Flying Boat
