The Sikorsky S-3 was an early Russian single seat biplane design by Igor Sikorsky. Work on the machine started in July 1910 and was completed in late November.

S-3
Sikorsky S-3 near Kiev Russia Empire December 1910
Role Experimental
National origin Russian Empire
Designer Igor Sikorsky
First flight December 1910
Number built 1
Developed from Sikorsky S-2
Developed into Sikorsky S-4

Design and development

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The S-3 was a larger improved version of the S-2 with a more powerful 40 hp (30 kW) Anzani three-cylinder engine. The main wings were manufactured in a more uniform manner with the ribs held to a closer tolerance and the fabric covering was of better quality. Other refinements included larger ailerons and faster-responding flight control surfaces.[1]

Operational history

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The S-3 exhibited performance superior to the S-2, and Sikorsky made a dozen successful flights starting early in December. The S-3 made its last flight on December 13, 1910 when at an altitude of 90 feet the engines distributor shifted to a retarded position and lost power. The aircraft landed hard on a frozen pond, broke through the ice and sank causing serious damage. The S-3 was salvaged and some parts including the engine were used in the construction of the S-4.[2]

Specifications

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Data from Russian Aviation Museum[3]

General characteristics

  • Crew: One
  • Length: 26 ft 3 in (8 m)
  • Upper wingspan: 26 ft 3 in (8 m)
  • Wing area: 260 sq ft (24 m2)
  • Empty weight: 485 lb (220 kg)
  • Gross weight: 683 lb (310 kg)
  • Powerplant: 1 × Anzani 3 -cyl. air-cooled fan piston engine, 40 hp (30 kW)

Performance

  • Service ceiling: 98 ft (30 m)

References

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  1. ^ Sikorsky, Igor (1944). The Story of the Winged-S. New York: Dodd, Mead & Company. p. 42. ISBN 9781258163556.
  2. ^ Sikorsky, Igor (1944). The Story of the Winged-S. New York: Dodd, Mead & Company. p. 43. ISBN 9781258163556.
  3. ^ "S-3". ram-home.com. 4 September 1997. Retrieved 2 April 2017.