Cooke Tractor Flying Boat

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