B & W Seaplane

The B & W Seaplane, built by Boeing in the early 1920s, represents a pivotal moment in the company's transition from pioneering land‑based trainers to versatile amphibious aircraft. Developed in collaboration with the West Coast engineering firm West‑Boeing (hence the “B & W” designation), the model first flew on 14 May 1922 from Lake Union in Seattle. Powered by a 350‑horsepower Curtiss V‑12 engine driving a two‑bladed wooden propeller, the high‑wing monoplane featured a sturdy, all‑metal fuselage with corrosion‑resistant aluminum skin and detachable floats constructed from mahogany‑clad steel frames. Its 12‑person capacity, enclosed cabin, and dual‑control layout made it suitable for both passenger transport and naval reconnaissance. The aircraft’s innovative wing‑root water‑deflection slots reduced spray impact during takeoff, while the reinforced hull allowed operations in rough sea conditions. Although only fifteen units were built, the B & W Seaplane proved essential in establishing Boeing’s reputation for reliable amphibious designs, influencing later successes such as the Boeing 314 Clipper and laying groundwork for modern seaplane engineering. The aircraft also served as a testbed for early radio navigation equipment, and a handful of surviving examples are displayed in aviation museums worldwide, underscoring its lasting legacy.

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