Avia BH-19

Avia BH‑19, a Czechoslovak single‑engine monoplane introduced in 1925, exemplifies the innovative spirit of the interwar Avia company. Designed by Pavel Beneš and Miroslav Hajn, the aircraft evolved from earlier BH‑12 and BH‑16 sport models, incorporating a higher‑aspect‑ratio wing and a streamlined fuselage that reduced drag. Powered by a 120 hp Walter NZ‑120 radial engine, the BH‑19 achieved a top speed of 170 km/h (106 mph) and a service ceiling of 4,500 m, impressive figures for a lightweight trainer and touring plane of its era. Its wooden frame, canvas covering, and fixed tailskid undercarriage made construction straightforward, while the open cockpit offered excellent visibility, fostering pilot confidence during training flights. Although only a modest production run of roughly 30 units was completed, the BH‑19 contributed significantly to the development of Czechoslovak civil aviation, serving aeroclubs and flight schools throughout the late 1920s. The aircraft’s blend of simplicity, reliable handling, and modest performance helped lay the groundwork for Avia’s later, more advanced designs, cementing its place as a pivotal stepping stone in Central European aeronautical history. Today, several restored BH‑19s are displayed in Czech museums, illustrating the nation’s early aviation achievements.

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