| Curtiss Lark | |
|---|---|
 | |
| General information | |
| Type | Biplane |
| National origin | United States of America |
| Manufacturer | Curtiss Aeroplane and Motor Company |
| Number built | 3 |
| History | |
| Introduction date | 1925 |
| Developed from | Curtiss Carrier Pigeon |
TheCurtiss Model 41 Lark was a commercialbiplane manufactured byCurtiss Aeroplane and Motor Company that was used by pioneering airmail, airline and bush pilots in the 1920s.
The biplane was based on theCurtiss Carrier Pigeon, a purpose-built aircraft for airmail operations. The Lark also had a longer-span lower wing, similar to the Carrier Pigeon. Some models were converted to floatplane configuration with a central mounted pontoon and wing-mounted floats.[1]
The biplane was made of welded tube with fabric covering. It was available with three engine choices, theCurtiss C-6, theWright J-4 Whirlwind, and theWright-Hisso E. All four wing panels were interchangeable, giving the aircraft its unusual longer lower wings.[2]
A 200 hpWright J-4 variant was tested for theUnited States Navy. This installation proved superior in performance to the Curtiss engined model.[3] This version eventually became the basis for theCurtiss Fledgling series of aircraft.[4]
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Patrica Airways operated a Lark for early bushplane operations. The aircraft flew with floats in warm weather, and skis in the winter.[5] The aircraft was pressed into service as an earlyhearse once, with the cargo needing to be seated upside down in the open seat and secured withhaywire.[6]
Florida Airways operated a Curtiss LarkMiss Tallahassee on its CAM-10 U.S. airmail route between Miami and Atlanta. The aircraft was bought to take the place of two lostStout 2-AT Pullman aircraft that could not operate out of the poorly prepared airstrips.[7]
Colonial Air Transport owned a Curtiss Lark which was one of the first aircraft to be registered using the newUnderwriters Laboratories all-letter system (1921 to 1923). This Lark, registered asN-AABC, was used on the CAM-1 U.S. airmail route.[8]
Data from Curtiss Aircraft 1907 - 1947[9]
General characteristics
Performance
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