Avia BH-8
The BH-8 was a single-seat fighter aircraft developed by the Czechoslovak firm Avia. The idea for another single-seat fighter originated with Pavel Beneš and Miroslav Hajn during their work on the BH-7 and BH-6 projects. Utilizing preliminary designs from the BH-6 fighter, the first prototype of the BH-8 was manufactured in the autumn of 1923.
Technical Specifications and Design
Like the BH-6, this aircraft was designed to be powered by the Hispano-Suiza 8Fb engine, which delivered 310 hp. However, a key feature of the BH-8 was its larger wing dimensions, marking an evolution from its predecessors.
First Flight and Project Discontinuation
The maiden flight of the BH-8 took place in late 1923. During testing, the aircraft demonstrated good flight characteristics and promising performance. Nevertheless, further development work was eventually halted due to the commencement of construction for the more promising BH-17 model.
Technical Specifications
| Modification | BH-8 |
| Wingspan, m | 9.48 |
| Length, m | 6.49 |
| Height, m | 2.77 |
| Wing area, m2 | 22.11 |
| Empty weight | 843 |
| Normal takeoff weight | 1143 |
| Engine type | 1 Piston engine Hispano-Suiza 8Fb |
| Power, hp | 1 x 310 |
| Maximum speed, km/h | 222 |
| Cruising speed, km/h | 199 |
| Practical range, km | 450 |
| Rate of climb, m/min | 340 |
| Practical ceiling, m | 8000 |
| Crew | 1 |
| Armament | two forward 7.7-mm machine guns |
Image and diagram gallery of the Avia BH-8
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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.