Origin and Initial Design
The Caproni Ca.97, a multi-purpose transport aircraft, was launched in 1927. It was initially a high-wing monoplane equipped with three 130 hp Lorraine-Dietrich engines, capable of carrying six passengers.
After producing several three-engine aircraft, designated Ca 97 C Tr. (Trimotore), the company decided to manufacture single- and twin-engine variants to broaden its appeal.
Variants and Engine Power
Over several years, various modifications were released, including the Ca 97 Co. (Colonial Monomotore), Ca 97 C. Mon. (Monomotore), Ca 97 Idro (Seaplane), Ca 97 Ri. (Reconnaissance), and Ca 97 M (Monomotore Merci).
These later versions were fitted with a range of engines, boasting power outputs between 400 and 500 hp, significantly enhancing the aircraft’s capabilities.
Operational Versatility and Armament
The Ca.97 proved remarkably versatile, employed not only as a passenger aircraft but also for transport, training, ambulance, reconnaissance, and even as a light bomber.
In its reconnaissance and bomber roles, the aircraft was armed with machine guns. For reconnaissance, they were wing-mounted, while the bomber variant featured them on a turret in the upper fuselage.
A total of 13 Caproni Ca.97 aircraft were produced. This marked Caproni’s first commercial success during the 1930s, establishing its presence in the aviation market.
Technical Specifications
| Modification | Ca. 97 C.Mon. |
| Wingspan, m | 15. 95 |
| Length, m | 10. 70 |
| Height, m | 3.35 |
| Wing area, m2 | 40.00 |
| Empty equipped weight | 1500 |
| Normal takeoff weight | 2495 |
| Engine type | 1 Bristol Jupiter Piston engine |
| Power, hp | 1 x 500 |
| Maximum speed, km/h | 225 |
| Cruising speed, km/h | 188 |
| Practical range, km | 1000 |
| Practical ceiling, m | 7400 |
| Crew, crew members | 2 crew members |
| Payload | up to 6 passengers |
Image gallery of the Caproni Ca.97
