Burgess I Scout

On June 9, 1912, William S. Burgess signed a contract with the U.S. Army for the construction of a reconnaissance seaplane designed for the U.S. coastal zone. The Burgess I Scout made its first flight shortly thereafter, on January 1, 1913.

Innovative Design and Technology

This scout aircraft was a two-seat, two-bay biplane, powered by a 60 hp Sturtevant D-6 six-cylinder water-cooled engine. This engine drove two pulling, two-bladed propellers. Notably, its cockpit was the first in the U.S. Army to feature a two-way radio transmitter, marking a significant technological advance for its time.

Operational History and Loss

The sole Burgess I Scout (s/n I-35) was delivered to the client on January 20, 1913. The seaplane, bearing tail number “AS17,” was assigned to coastal artillery aviation based in Manila, Philippine Islands. Sadly, on January 12, 1915, the aircraft was lost in an accident.

Technical Specifications

Modification	Burgess I Scout
Wingspan, m	11.96
Length, m	9.68
Empty weight	697
Maximum takeoff weight	924
Engine type	1 Piston engine Sturtevant D-6
Power, hp	1 x 60
Maximum speed, km/h	95
Cruising speed, km/h	85
Rate of climb, m/min	64
Crew, crew members	2
Armament	unknown

Image and diagram gallery of the Burgess I Scout

Burgess I Scout	Burgess I Scout
Burgess I Scout	Burgess I Scout
Burgess I Scout