Caudron C.430 Rafale

The Caudron C.430 Rafale light multi-purpose aircraft was developed by Marcel Riffard in late 1933, as a further evolution of the Caudron C.360 family. It was a two-seater low-wing monoplane, equipped with an air-cooled four-cylinder Renault 4Pei engine delivering 150 hp (110 kW).

Development and Initial Characteristics

Two examples of the aircraft were manufactured; the first (F-AMVB) took to the air on March 24, 1934. Just a week later, it set a new world record in its class, achieving a speed of 292 km/h (181 mph) over a distance of 100 km (62 miles).

World Record and Tragedy

This aircraft is also linked to a tragic date: on November 30 of the same year, the famous aviator Hélène Boucher died in a C.430 accident during landing. The second aircraft (registration number F-AMVA) was prepared for the Coupe Deutsch de la Meurthe competition, receiving a more powerful engine, the 180 hp Renault 438.

Competition and Challenges

However, engine problems prevented this second C.430 from continuing in the competition, marking a challenging end to its racing aspirations.

Technical Specifications

Modification	C. 430
Wingspan, m	7.70
Length, m	7.10
Height, m	1.88
Wing area, m2	9.00
Empty weight	480
Maximum takeoff weight	820
Engine type	1 Piston engine Renault 4Pei
Power, hp	1 x 150
Maximum speed, km/h	305
Cruising speed, km/h	260
Practical range, km	1000
Service ceiling, m	5750
Crew	2

Image and diagram gallery of the Caudron C.430 Rafale

C.430 Rafale	C.430 Rafale
C.430 Rafale	C.430 Rafale
C.430 Rafale