Avia BH-16

2 min read

In 1924, Avia released the BH-16, a light single-seat sport aircraft designed by Pavel Beneš and Miroslav Hajn. This model represented a significant development in Czechoslovakian sport aviation of its era.

Table of Contents

Design and Initial Prototypes

Only two examples of the BH-16 were built, primarily differing in their power plants. The first prototype was equipped with a French Vaslin engine of 20 hp (15 kW), while the second featured a Blackburne Tomtit engine of 16 hp (12 kW).

First Flight and Registrations

The first Avia BH-16 took to the air on June 8, 1924. Subsequently, this aircraft received the civil registration number L-BONC, and the second aircraft was registered as L-BOND. These registrations highlighted their civilian and sporting use.

In 1932, the engine of the first BH-16 was replaced with an Orion LL-30 of 30 hp (22 kW). Following this upgrade, the aircraft was re-registered as OK-AVS, extending its operational life and performance capabilities.

Technical Specifications

Modification	BH-16
Wingspan, m	9.50
Length, m	5.13
Wing area, m2	10.60
Empty weight	13 0
Maximum takeoff weight	238
Engine type	1 Piston engine Vaslin
Power, hp	1 x 20
Maximum speed, km/h	116
Cruising speed, km/h	95
Practical range, km	500
Rate of climb, m/min	60
Service ceiling, m	2000
Crew, crew	1

Image and diagram gallery of the Avia BH-16

Czechoslovakia

ArchivoAéreo Editorial Team

A group of aviation researchers and enthusiasts dedicated to documenting and preserving global aeronautical history. All articles are reviewed to ensure historical accuracy.

Sources & Accuracy

The information presented in this technical sheet has been compiled from declassified flight manuals, historical archives, and specialized literature. While we strive for maximum accuracy, some performance data may vary depending on the specific variant or operational conditions.

BH-	BH-
BH-	BH-
BH-