Drawing on the experience gained from designing the first two “Arc en Ciel” aircraft, René Couzinet completed his arguably most famous plane, the Couzinet 70 Arc en ciel, in early 1932. Its maiden flight took place on February 11, 1932.
Innovative Design and Power
The aircraft already differed significantly from its predecessors, featuring a different fuselage and a powerplant consisting of three Hispano-Suiza 12Nb engines, each rated at 650 hp. This powerful configuration allowed the aircraft’s flight range to increase to almost 7000 kilometers.
Historic Transatlantic Feat
Thanks to this extended range, French pilot Jean Mermoz was able to complete a transatlantic flight to Buenos Aires in 1933. Such a remarkable success was highly valued by air carriers.
Service with Air France
In 1937, Air France acquired the Couzinet 70. After minor modifications, it was used under the designation Couzinet 71 for mail transport.
Technical Specifications
| Modification | Couzinet 70 |
| Wingspan, m | 30. 00 |
| Aircraft length, m | 16. 15 |
| Aircraft height, m | 4. 00 |
| Wing area, m2 | 98. 45 |
| Empty weight | 7480 |
| Maximum takeoff weight | 1 6610 |
| Engine type | 3 Piston engine Hispano-Suiza 12Nb |
| Power, hp | 3 x 650 |
| Maximum speed, km/h | 2 80 |
| Cruising speed, km/h | 236 |
| Practical range, km | 6800 |
| Practical ceiling, m | 7000 |
| Crew | 5 |
Image gallery of the Couzinet 70 Arc en ciel
