Bernard S-73

Following the Bernard S-72 aircraft accident near Lyon, the firm’s designers embarked on an attempt to modernize the plane. In late 1930, the S-72 (civil registration F-AJTH) received a seven-cylinder radial 300 hp Gnôme-Rhône K 7 engine and a wooden two-bladed propeller.

The Birth of the S-73 and its Specifications

Repainted in different colors (though still variegated), the S-73 was presented at the XII Air Show in 1930. Before the exhibition, a Levasseur metal propeller was installed. The S-73 featured a wingspan of 9.20 m, a length of 6.72 m, and a height of 2.45 m, with a wing area of 13.45 m².

Ready for Competition

With an empty weight of 774 kg and a normal take-off weight of 1004 kg, powered by its Gnome & Rhone 7Kb engine, the S-73 could achieve a maximum speed of 290 km/h and had a practical range of 450 km. After receiving its airworthiness certificate in June 1931, the aircraft was prepared for the Michelin Cup races. The S-73’s chances were excellent.

An Unexpected Fate

Unfortunately, on June 16, pilot Paillard passed away. As no other pilot was available, testing was halted, and the aircraft was abandoned, bringing a promising aviation project to an untimely end.

Technical Specifications

Modification	S-73
Wingspan, m	9.20
Length, m	6.72
Height, m	2.45
Wing area, m2	13.45
Empty weight	774
Normal takeoff weight	1004
Engine type	1 Piston engine Gnome & Rhone 7Kb
Power, hp	1 x 300
Maximum speed, km/h	290
Practical range, km	450
Crew	1

Image and diagram gallery of the Bernard S-73

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S-73