The Italian company Compagnia Nazionale Aeronautica (CNA) developed the light sport aircraft CNA 15 specifically for an air race held at Littorio airfield near Rome. This aircraft was designed as a four-seater low-wing monoplane. It was equipped with a proprietary six-cylinder engine, the CNA C.VI IRC.43, boasting 150 hp.
Innovation and Performance Boost
In 1937, a turbocharger was installed on the CNA 15’s engine, a significant enhancement that allowed its practical service ceiling to increase to 9,000 meters. This modification aimed to boost its capabilities and flight performance, particularly for competitive events.
Exhibition and Ultimate Fate
In the summer of the same year, the aircraft was showcased at the Second International Salon in Rome, highlighting its technological advancements. However, despite the improvements and its public presentation, the CNA 15 failed to achieve any major successes in its intended purpose. Consequently, it was soon dismantled for parts, marking the end of its brief operational history.
Technical Specifications
| Modification | CNA 15 |
| Upper wingspan, m | 11.78 |
| Aircraft length, m | 8.10 |
| Aircraft height, m | 2.10 |
| Wing area, m2 | 16.88 |
| Empty weight | 370 |
| Maximum takeoff weight | 500 |
| Engine type | 1 Piston engine CNA C-VI IRC.43 |
| Power, hp | 1 x 150 |
| Maximum speed, km/h | 235 |
| Cruising speed, km/h | 205 |
| Rate of climb, m/min | 182 |
| Service ceiling, m | 9000 |
| Crew | 3-4 |
Image gallery of the CNA 15
