Avro 504K

The Avro 504K, a variant of the widely produced Avro 504 series, was introduced in 1915 by the British aircraft manufacturer Avro. Originally designed as a two‑seat trainer and reconnaissance aircraft during World War I, the 504K featured a robust wooden frame, fabric covering, and a 100‑hp Gnome rotary engine that gave it reliable performance and gentle handling characteristics. Its simple yet sturdy construction allowed for rapid production; more than 8,000 units of the entire 504 family were built, making it one of the most prolific aircraft of the era. The “K” model incorporated a strengthened fuselage, larger wing area, and optional provision for a forward‑firing Vickers machine gun, enabling limited combat duties alongside its primary training role. After the war, the 504K enjoyed an extended civilian career, serving as a barn‑storming sports plane, mail carrier, and aerial advertising platform worldwide. Its ease of maintenance and forgiving flight envelope made it a favorite for flight schools and pilots transitioning to more complex machines. The Avro 504K’s legacy lies in its contribution to pilot training, its influence on early commercial aviation, and its status as an iconic symbol of early twentieth‑century flight.

Avro

Classification

Dimensions

Performance

Design & Classification