Bleriot XXXIX

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In 1913, General Bernard articulated the requirements for two main types of armored reconnaissance aircraft: two-seaters with a speed of at least 100 km/h for long flights, and single-seaters with a speed of at least 120 km/h.

Table of Contents

Design and Development

Louis Blériot developed two projects to meet both requirements: the two-seater Bleriot XXXVI for the first, and the single-seater Bleriot XXXIX for the second.

This aircraft was somewhat shorter than the Bleriot XI but featured wings with a greater span and was equipped with an 80 hp Gnome 7A engine.

Challenges and Abandonment

While testing was underway, the French military abandoned the concept of armored aircraft, as the engines available at the time could not provide good flight characteristics for such machines.

Technical Specifications

Modification	Bleriot XXXIX
Wingspan, m	11.10
Length, m	6.15
Wing area, m2	19.00
Empty weight	440
Maximum takeoff weight	615
Engine type	1 Piston engine Gnome 7A
Power, hp	1 x 80
Maximum speed, km/h	120
Cruising speed, km/h	105
Rate of climb, m/min	100
Crew, crew:	1

Image and diagram gallery of the Bleriot XXXIX

French

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.

Bleriot XXXIX	Bleriot XXXIX
Bleriot XXXIX	Bleriot XXXIX
Bleriot XXXIX