The Caspar C.32 was a light aircraft built by Caspar Werke AG in 1926. It was designed by Reinhold Mewes as an observer or auxiliary military aircraft but, due to the existing ban on military aircraft production, it was presented as a light transport and agricultural plane.
Early Development and Testing
The prototype (Werk.N. 7006), equipped with a BMW IV engine, first flew in late 1926. The aircraft (D-1142) was tested for two years at DVL (Deutsche Versuchsanstalt für Luftfahrt) before being transferred to DVS GmbH (Deutsche Verkehrsfliegerschule).
The prototype was followed by two production aircraft (Werk.N. 7008, 7009), both fitted with a 320 hp BMW Va engine, similar to the one eventually installed in the prototype. Both aircraft were used by DVL and DLS, receiving registration numbers D-1143 and D-1144, respectively. The first operated until spring 1933, and the second until May 1932, after which it was transferred to a museum.
The Famous “Germania” Variant
The fourth C.32 (Werk.N. 7010) became the most famous aircraft of this type. It was specially manufactured for Count Georg Friedrich Graf zu Solms-Laubach and modified for long-distance flights, installing a 310 hp Junkers L-5 engine. This variant could carry three people and up to 1000 kilograms of cargo for a distance of up to 7500 kilometers.
The Interrupted Transcontinental Flight
On September 20, pilot Otto Könnecke took off from an airfield in Cologne in the aircraft named “Germania.” The plan was to fly across Eastern Europe, India, and Japan to the USA. However, poor weather conditions and engine problems interrupted the flight over India. After repairs, it was decided not to continue the flight but to return to Cologne.
Technical Specifications
| Modification | C.32 |
| Wingspan, m | 15.00 |
| Length, m | 9.10 |
| Height, m | 3.90 |
| Wing area, m2 | 53.00 |
| Empty weight | 1400 |
| Normal takeoff weight | 2300 |
| Engine type | 1 Piston engine BMW Va |
| Power, hp | 1 x 320 |
| Maximum speed, km/h | 158 |
| Cruising speed, km/h | 142 |
| Service ceiling, m | 3730 |
| Crew | 2 |
Image gallery of the Caspar C.32
